Vats Wine Bar

"A comfortable, traditional wine bar with a reasonable choice of food..."

Added Fri 31 Jul 2009 by KimT

I was invited to join a group of journalist/publishing friends for a minor celebration here last night at 6pm – and have to admit that on the way I was reminded of the charming individuality of this quaint pedestrianised area of Bloomsbury. And made a note to come and explore some of the other nearby establishments.

Whilst it would have been nice to sit at one of the outside tables admiring the trellises and numerous signs all over the large panel windows, my colleagues were already ensconced at a table right just inside – so we could still see the world go by if we wished. A jug of tap water and an ice bucket with a rather welcome bottle of Sauvignon (Domaine Bergon 2008 - £18.50) was already on the table.

Whilst there was four of us, we weren’t there for dinner but the Dips and Dunks platter (£13.50) did the trick – grilled crusty bread, warmed slivers of pitta bread, dishes of olive tapenade, sunblushed tomato and feta cheese and mango/cucumber salsa were supported by smaller dips of oils (chilli and mixed fresh herb – you could certainly taste the basil). They replenished the grilled bread without prompting. Other platters (£16) include charcuteries and fish and chips (includes wedges, tempura prawns, plaice goujons and calamari rings).

The menu changes regularly, and the owners (from Sussex) appear to source many foods locally. Also available was home cooked ham terrine (£6.50), mixed seafood gratin (£10.50), Madeira sautéed lambs kidneys (£7.50), Duck, beansprout and coriander parcel and chargrilled breast of wood pigeon (£8.95). Amongst the mains selection was salmon, crayfish and smoked haddock fishcake (£12.50), wild venison (variable price) and, strangely, “Winstons” fillet of red snapper with a French Caribbean sauce. So there’s a bias to game. As you would expect, there is a fairly extensive wine list – but I am afraid I am no expert so can’t tell whether it’s a particularly great selection.

And if you don’t fancy eating here then it is right across from Cigala which is reported to be a very good Spanish restaurant and tapas bar (it’s on my list to review).

The interior is traditional and homey and it felt casual and unrushed when we were there – not stuffy at all. Round wooden and rectangular tables, plain (perhaps a little tired) décor and lots of indications of being serious about wine (wine events, wine books etc). However, I must admit I was terrified when I went to the loos by the narrow spiral staircase – and the downstairs area was really rather rough. My only (minor) whinge is that on all occasions when we wanted to order more food or drinks it was a bit of a challenge to get the attention of the staff – and even when you had their attention, they always delayed getting over to you. And it wasn’t hugely busy when we were there.

Anyway, we were so content there that time slipped by and before we realised nearly three hours had passed. So, if you like comfortable traditional wine bars with a reasonable choice of food – it would be a safe (but uninspired) choice whether for business or social. They also appear to do a reasonable trade in private functions – in the back room/restaurant - and there is a private dining room for 12 although I didn’t check that area out.