1 Regent Street,
Clifton,
BRISTOL,
BS8 4HW
(0117) 974 3793
The ViewBristol Review
Taking its name from a Lewis Carroll poem, the twist in the plot here is that at the Walrus and Carpenter, unlike the characters in the poem, you get huge portions.
The Venue
The Wally, as it is endearingly known, is a two-and-a-half-storey corner bistro, its height elongated by its position on an inclining slope. Its vivid blue theme beckons for attention and inside, except for a bright blue half-wall, the decor can be described as generic-bistro. There are chequered blue and white tablecloths draped over dark wood tables and candles standing tall in used wine bottles for decoration.
The surrounding white walls are orderly and covered with retro movie posters. The full length glass windows that look out onto the streets are shielded by more chequered cloths – it’s a charming little venue for Clifford Village.
The People
If not for the splashes of colour and the ever-lasting, burning candles, The Wally would look a dim and characterless place. The staff are eager to please when in-house but more laidback and chummy when outdoors. Young families, groups of friends and retired women frequent this homely neighbourhood bistro.
The Food
Simple, straightforward bistro food is prepared with locally sourced ingredients from independent suppliers. Wally's secret recipe burgers, made from 100 per cent beef, are very popular. Mains usually go for under £12, except the lunchtime menu, where mains are under £8. Both menus are sometimes offered at lunch, plus there are regular specials on offer.
The Walrus Steak (£7.95) is a generous skewer of beef, that's cooked medium to well done, on a pitta served with thick cut chips and a mix of salad leaves.
The salad's refreshing but the plainly seasoned beef is a bit tough and it's best to ask for condiments for the meal as the sweet chilli salsa compliments the beef well. Vegetarians are well catered for here with a large selection of meat free dishes. When available, the nut loaf made from The Wally's own 30-year-old secret recipe is a mighty contender.
The Drink
The wine list is split according to the country of origin. Few come by the glass, and bottles are generally £15. There is also a selection of liquors, whiskeys and bourbons, served from the basement bar. Sober choices include the usual coffees and teas, all for approximately £2.
The Last Word
Not as quirky as the name makes it out to be but the Walrus and Carpenter is endearing nonetheless.
Walrus and Carpenter has been reviewed by 3 users