A postmodern homage to the art of brewing; this bar, restaurant, club and micro-brewery always makes for an interesting night out.

The Venue
A former car showroom in Fitzrovia may seem a strange place to find a microbrewery, but find one you will at Mash on Great Portland Street. The original owner kept the clean lines of the venue’s former incarnation when he opened it in 1998, but installed a bar running almost the full length of one wall and a full microbrewery in the back. Glass windows allow visitors looks onto copper fermeters and brewing equipment to share some of the theatre of the brew process, but the contemporary decor has more in common with a stylish hotel bar than a continental bier keller. Tasteful modern design influences compliment the stark white interior.

The Atmosphere
In the early evening at Mash, suits take advantage of long happy hours to unwind after a long working day, intermingling with beer buffs and a spattering of tourists. After dark, the night time crowd couldn’t be more different and, as the DJ starts spinning, the venue takes on the appearance of a bijou nightclub, open until 1am at the weekends. The nocturnal crowds are generally friendly and well oiled, but the venue is very popular after dark so a queue is almost inevitable on busier nights.

The Food
Sadly the restaurant that once lived above the bar is now defunct, but a selection of bar-meals is available. Be honest, though, you didn’t really come for the food. Despite its stylish appearance, Mash is, in effect, a contemporary take on the beer hall. Allowances should, therefore, be made for a lack of culinary excellence, and beyond a solid selection of grazing food, there is now little to inspire on the menu.

The Drinks
Three mouth-watering beers are brewed on the premises, and are well regarded (as the number of visiting beer aficionados can attest). To get the best value, order a half pint taster of each of the house brews, or come after work to enjoy long happy hours. Beyond the house beers, a wide selection of wine and bottled lager is available, or the knowledgeable staff will be happy to whip you up a cocktail.

The Last Word
Granted there are newer and more salubrious places around these days, but the house brews are as good as ever, and Mash still offers the discerning beer drinker an intriguing alternative to the traditional wood-panelled boozer.

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