The nations love of craft beer doesn’t seem to be dwindling anytime soon. Aficionados along with those who just like a damn good pint will be pleased to welcome Nottingham’s newest addition to the craft beer scene, The Head of Steam.
Taking up occupancy of the former Missoula site on High Pavement, the three storey building has been transformed into a contemporary bar serving over 130 different types of craft beer, real ale and world beer. There’s even a TV, which reminds me of those in an airport departure lounge, showing what beers are on the menu.
The decor, however, gives a firm nod to Nottingham. Drinkers and diners can sit in a booth with a huge backdrop of our own beloved Council House.
Of course, they don’t just serve beer lovers. Everyone is welcome. Guests can choose from a vast menu of wine, cocktails and spirits, including 34 brands of gin, and they even allow dogs – something I hadn’t realised but pleases me no end as going out for a drink in town with a dog can be fairly restrictive but there were several well behaved pooches lapping up the attention when we visited on press night, just prior to the official opening.
We arrived around 8.30pm having been to another function, so only seemed to have time to sample one course. It’s a shame because there are some delicious looking options. It’s not your standard pub grub, starters/light bites include Yuzu Ginger & Shiso Smoked Salmon, Korean-Inspired Squid, Chicken Churrasco Brochette Skewers and more. Mains offer not only a selection of pizzas, but a world of flavours with choices of Red Lentil & Chick Pea Dahl, Beef Bourguignon and Chicken Milanese to name a few. I like to ask what the staff recommend and I went for one of those options with the Spiced Cauliflower, Lentil & Spinach Pie My companion fancied the Sauteed Muscles. Drink pairing is standard on the menu, which is helpful to complement the flavours of the dish.
I’d definitely recommend the food. The staff had been friendly and welcoming all night, but I think due to time and the pub starting to empty, we weren’t asked if we wanted dessert. Gutted really as I’d been eyeing up a trio of desserts the couple had on a nearby table. Never mind, when I go back with pampered pooch I’ll order a pudding, he’s quite partial to a bit of fresh cream himself!
