South London brewing has never been stronger with Kernel, Brew by Numbers, Brixton, Brick and Brockley Breweries now joined by Late Knights Brewery’s very own pub-cum-taproom on Brockley Road. The London Beer Dispensary is a name that hints at the unusual setup inside and once you set foot within, the eagle-eyed will notice immediately that something is missing – the bar.
The relaxed, informal and educational nature of this brewpub is taken a level up with the removal of the archetypal serving point that has done Londoners – everyone, in fact – proud for centuries. In its place are a parade of fridges and a collection of kegs piled up in a corner. What this means is that you and the staff become acquainted as they guide you through their own impressive range of beer, up close and personal. We like it. The brief awkwardness of the situation on the first time was offset by the friendly staff (obviously you wouldn’t want a surly slacker laying against a keg unwilling to engage) who went all in depth on what we liked, what they had and why we should try it.
Beyond the importance of the beer, the bar is a sweet little place. Sparsely done in wood-wood-wood, there are high stools, dim glowing bulbs and a petite garden out back. For food, we hear the burgers are great.
Good, beer, good people and the promise of a great burger in this pleasant Brockley outfit – they make it all look so easy.
