11-13 Brixton Station Road,
Brixton,
London,
SW9 8PA
0871 971 4679
The ViewLondon Review
A one-off as far as Brixton is concerned, Hive bar and restaurant has undergone a revamp of sorts, gaining ground as a friendly home from home in which to enjoy dinner, brunch or even late night cocktails.The VenueA welcome change from the rest of Brixton’s chain pubs and bars, Hive is a small, familial space that finds a balance between shabby chic and quirky style. Bare floorboards mesh nicely with leather seating and kitsch bumblebee wallpaper to emulate a part bistro, part modern bar ambience. There’s also a spacious upstairs cocktail and DJ lounge, plus outdoor seating for sunny days.
The AtmosphereAccommodating for all, there’s a mixed bunch of pre-Academy music fans hankering for tapas, whilst smarter dressed businessmen, friends and couples can all be found tucking into the hearty daily specials. The staff at Hive cope well with the busy throng, although they could do with having a few more added to their team.
The FoodThe menu at Hive is largely tapas inspired, with more substantial specials that change regularly and can include perfectly seared yellow fin tuna Nicoise for around £12, or soft homemade ravioli for £8. There’s also a decent selection of Antipasti boards with wafer-thin, deli-quality Parma, salami and Milano, all accompanied by roasted vine tomatoes, houmous, and spicy olives for just £12. Vegetarians can enjoy a deliciously creamy mozzarella and aubergine terrine (£5) or some robust Gorgonzola-drenched mushrooms. Highly recommended are the crisp, fat calamari with chilli mayo for a reasonable £4.50.
The DrinkThe wine menu is diverse and conscientious considering the food. There are nine different reds starting at £4.50 per glass, and eight white varieties - four of which are sold by the glass. Beers start at £3.20 for a pint of Amstel and there’s a decent selection of bottles on offer, too. The cocktail list is even longer, with a selection of classics and contemporary options to keep the late night loungers entertained. Winners include Pineapple and Sage Mojito, Blueberry Gin or a Lemon Sherbet Fizz of Prosecco at just £6 each.
The Last WordHive may not harbour the flawless decor or the fast-paced atmosphere of many Central London pub bistros, but that’s the point. This is a place to take your watch off, order some tasty morsels and experience a homely, imperfect bistro that’s on the up.