Auberge are a chain of French themed bars and restaurants serving fresh food and specialty beers at sites in and around London. This branch is a decent example with good beer and decent food, but is marred by the abrasive staff.

The Venue
This Auberge is well situated for the nearby office workers and commuters who fancy a quick drink or bite to eat on their way home from work. It’s also a handy meeting place for those who don’t want to travel too far into town, as it’s tucked away on a side street, just underneath the railway arches close to Waterloo East station. It’s easy to spot thanks to the large arched windows that line the front and an almost tacky blue neon sign glaring out from the side of the building.

The venue itself is split into two levels with an upstairs brasserie dining area and a ground floor bar. The curved serving area is situated towards the middle of the ground floor. Furnishings are of the solid wood variety with plenty of tables and chairs to choose from but they are set apart enough that you don't feel too crammed in. The subtle lighting at Auberge works well with the dark wood furnishings and gives off a warm, attractive glow

The Atmosphere
The majority of people at Auberge appear to come here at the end of a very long day. Most customers are of the suited and booted variety but there is no strict dress code and the vibe amongst the clientele is generally relaxed and friendly. Although it’s a self-confessed bar and restaurant, many do pop in here after work just to get tanked up on a few beers.

The bar staff, unfortunately, can be rude and unfriendly and don’t seem to like the punters very much. However, it is worth ignoring them as there are some delicious Belgium beers and moules to try, it’s just a shame they don’t contribute to your overall enjoyment of what is otherwise a decent venue.

The Food
The upstairs French inspired restaurant specialises in fresh fish dishes with pots of mussels, lemon sole, salmon and roast sea bass available for hungry diners at around the £13 mark. An express and salad menu is available for those in a hurry to make the last train home.

The Drink
The ground floor bar at Auberge sells a range of Belgium beer and draught lager with some drinks delivered in pint glasses such as Hoegaarden (£3.90), Becks (£3.10) and Stella Artois (£3.20), which is about right for the area. There is also a range of bottled fruit and Trappist beer (£3.55-£4.35), the strong 8.5 per cent Duvel (£4.35) and regular bar staples like Budvar and Peroni (£3.10). There is also a reasonable wine list with bottles ranging in price from £12.95-£24.95 and bottles of Piper Heidsieck priced at £39.95.

The Last Word
Prices are a little on the hefty side at Auberge but the range of beer is good and the location and overall atmosphere make up for the grumpy bar staff - just about.

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