If you’re a fan of real ale then The Rose is not for you. For everyone else, a great location, attractive views, pleasant interior design and even a surprise in the offer of cocktails is enough to make this a must visit if you’re in the area.

The Venue
Opposite the River Thames, on the Albert Embankment this sophisticated pub is a real find. A short walk from Vauxhall tube station, the location of this pub is a big plus, with views of the Houses of Parliament and Tate Britain.

Lovely interior design features and funky furniture make The Rose more akin to a bar than a riverside pub. The first floor is used as an extra dining area or for private parties and is booked most weekends. It is easy to see why; the dramatic decor and beautiful mirrors make for a great space for a special occasion. Jazz music plays in the background during the day, but come Saturday night, the resident DJ plays funky, soulful house and old skool classics from 8pm-1am.

The Atmosphere
The Rose is sophisticated in comparison to most pubs in the area and is what you might expect to find closer to Central London. It is somewhere for the young and trendy thirty-to-fortysomethings to hang out. The club nights are an especially nice touch for an area that, come the weekend, turns into a hotbed of partygoers hitting the hardcore clubs. The pleasant views and great locale also lends a quieter, more refined edge to drinks the rest of the time.

The Food
The food at The Rose is simple but tasty, soup of the day is £3.95 with starters priced up to £7.95. Mains are from £6.95 for penne pasta in a spicy tomato and garlic sauce rising to £10.95 for char grilled 8oz rib eye steak and chunky chips. Baguettes are from £4.95. There is a daily chef special where prices start from £5.95 and includes snacks and larger dishes, all priced up to £8.85. Sharers are £4.95 or three for £11.50. In all a decent and substantial menu – just be prepared for the large portion sizes.

The Drink
John Smith, Fosters, San Miguel, Kronenbourg Blanc, Guinness, Kronenbourg 1664 and Strongbow is all available on draught, with Corona, Michelob, Becks, Bulmers, Budweiser and Heineken available in bottles. Unfortunately, their ale selection is distinctly lacking.

There’s a decent wine selection here, white wine starts at £11.50 for a bottle of Cuvee de Richard Blanc rising to £45 for a bottle of French Burgundy. Red is £11.50 a bottle for the Spanish Tempranillo, rising to £28 for an Australian Cabernet Sauvignon. A Chilean rose comes in at £24.95. The house Champagne is a very reasonable £35 or a bottle of Dom Perignon £110. Surprisingly for what is essentially a pub, cocktails, shooters and Champagne cocktails are also available. There are several offers during the week, including a decent happy hour.

The Last Word
The Rose is a real corker - the decor is sophisticated and classy without feeling intimidating. The only real downside is the lack of real ale; however, if beer isn’t your thing then there’s little to fault here.

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