Walking down the nondescript street of faded shopfronts behind Waterloo station, you’ll notice Lounge 34 sitting unassumingly on a corner. Enter for a funky vibe and some smashing cocktails.

The Venue
In an area crammed with bustling pubs and bars, it’s nice to find somewhere simple and chilled out to let your hair down after a tough day at work. The Venetian blinds and ferns in the corner might have a slight office feel to them but the rest of the minimalist warehouse-like decor, with touches of retro funk like the vibrant tangerine light fixtures and long stainless steel-topped bar, will put you in the party mood. It’s only small but with comfy couches lining the wall, plenty of floor space for dancing and a late licence, Lounge 34 could turn your ‘quick Friday drink’ into a big night. The venue’s size and convenient location are also an ideal set-up for private functions.

The Atmosphere
The close confines of Lounge 34 mean you’ll get intimate with the rest of the crowd and the friendly bar staff. Here you’re just as likely to find office workers having a laid back drink as party revellers dancing the limbo when the DJs get started with sets that mix soul, funk, house and RnB. DJs play Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights until late, when the lights are turned low and the cocktails are flowing.

The Food
Lounge 34 is open Monday to Friday for bargain priced lunches starting from £2 for soup starters, £3 for a lamb biryani or a small selection of things like pies and lasagne for £5. Come nightfall, the only thing you can get are predominantly fried or battered bar snacks that hit the spot after a few drinks but are nothing special.

The Drink
The cocktails are the star of the show at Lounge 34. The martinis (lychee, watermelon, berry or passion fruit) are definite crowd-pleasers and the rest of the cocktails, all made with fresh ingredients and enticing blends of exotic flavours, are also great value at just £6. The Ginger Crush (vodka, fresh ginger and strawberries muddled with fresh mint, apple juice and ginger beer) pops with delicious tangy and sweet flavours. If you need to get the party started, try a classic cocktail jug from £16 or the irresistible fruity shooters like Raspberrylicious and Cherry Bomb, which pack a pint-sized punch.

If cocktails don’t rock your boat, then they also pour premium spirits and Fosters, San Miguel, Strongbow, Guinness and Kronenbourg are available on tap. The £3 Sol is the most unique of the bottled beers on offer whilst a carefully selected wine list with some nice choices like French Sancerre and a Californian Zinfandel start from £13 a bottle.

The Last Word
Apart from addictive cocktails and an admirable DJ list, there is nothing particularly unique about Lounge 34. However, it’s a decent choice for a relaxed drink or late night revelling.

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