Industrial and modern meets chic and traditional at Jack’s Lounge, a venue which offers a comfortable environment for parched south of the river drinkers.

The Venue
Minutes from the chaotic transport hub of Waterloo, Jack’s Lounge resides under a spacious brick arch on the peaceful Isabella Street in Southwark. The impressive outdoor area feels separate from the city, with relaxing cushioned seats complete with heater lamps and tropical greenery helping to make the outdoors desirable even in the depths of London’s winter. Inside, the venue uses its space to its full potential, with a long bar on one side for the clientele to perch over plus plenty of carefully spaced tables and sofas to amplify the ‘lounge’ theme. Dark woods and muted colours combine with soft lighting to create a moody, seductive feel in the evenings which puts the customers as ease. Contrasts of exposed brick and steel vents with gilded old-fashioned paintings and antique candelabras bring together the best of old and new in a haphazard manner that works well.

The Atmosphere
A lively crowd are in attendance with after-work drinkers and casual groups of friends rubbing shoulders. The key to the experience of Jack’s Lounge is the efficient and friendly table service. Customers can fully relax and become part of the comfortable furniture whilst their drinks are brought to them, meaning no clambering at the bar.

The Food
A limited food menu still offers enough to please most palates. The platters are a popular choice, with even a single portion containing plenty of salty snacks. The Jack’s Platter is crammed full of tasty meaty goodies such as the sweet honey mustard glazed chipolatas and the moreish chunks of chorizo. The accompanying garlic flatbreads have delicious fresh dips such as babaganoush and tzatziki that have well balanced flavours. The Asian platter is also a good choice, with sweet prawn toast, spicy prawn crackers, crispy tempura and freshly steamed pork dumplings.

The Drink
The cocktails at Jack’s are very well made, with attention paid to the quality of ingredients and inventive flair shown – and they’re priced at only £6.50 each. The Royal Flush is a sweet, rich concoction of 42 Below passion fruit vodka, Licor 43, passion fruit puree, lemon juice and a kick of pepper which adds a delectable depth to the flavour. Another signature treat is the Jack’s Breezer, a raspberry and cranberry mix with chambord and vodka which has a refreshing rather than sickly taste. The choice of wines is small but each option is affordable and carefully chosen, such as the Argentinean Malbec with its heady fruity notes (£4 a glass). A decent selection of beers on tap and in bottles are offered at around £3.50 a pint.

The Last Word
Chic without the ridiculous price tag, Jack’s Lounge is much more sophisticated than your average watering hole, but has the same relaxed atmosphere.

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