The Reckless Engineer - Bristol Pub Review

Posted on: 2017-01-17

Our rating:

Being positioned directly opposite Temple Meads train station, The Reckless Engineer is the first Bristol pub to greet you as you feel the city's warm, cultured embrace enshroud you in its comforting, cosy glow.


Like an oasis in the desert, like a beer-based heaven, like a pint-quaffing sight for sore eyes (especially after a long train journey), The Reckless Engineer - so called because that was the name Brunel's employees referred to the often risk-taking, death-defying architectural genius - will very often be the first point of public house call for visitors and tourists to the city.

 

There's nothing complicated or pretentious about The Reckless, and with stripped back, basic utilitarian space providing a large single bar, a few seats and stools scattered around the venue it's a refreshingly old school, no-nonsense spit-and-sawdust pub where the emphasis is on good times, a great atmosphere and well-kept beers.

The Reckless Engineer - Bristol Pub Review

When I visited recently on a wet and windy weekday afternoon, the jovial barmaid leaped to attention to pull a supremely drinkable, tip-top condition pint of Oakham Ales Scarlet Macaw. A pint so delicious, in fact, I had to stay for two. 

 

Regular other real ales include Butcombe Bitter and Otter with many of the guest ales being dispensed from stillage at the back of the bar, and there's a plentiful selection of ciders, wines and spirits as well. 

 

Previously one of the main dominions of the city's biker crowd, the emphasis has shifted somewhat to appeal to a wider range of punters, although you'll still often find yourself supping amongst the affable, fun-loving company of those with a strong predilection for Harleys, big helmets, denim and leather. 

 

At the weekends the pub plays host to many excellent rock and heavy metal bands, and there's a splendid jukebox primed with some top tunes, a selection of pub games, a dartboard, and dog and family-friendly ethos that gives it a strong, welcoming appeal to a wide clientele. 

The Reckless Engineer, Bristol

I've never eaten there bar a packet of crisps (although the food emerging from the kitchen always appears appealingly substantial and mouthwateringly hearty), but during lunchtimes there's a lengthy menu of traditional, familiar pub classics such as All Day Breakfasts, burger and chips, omelettes and the reassuringly retro scampi in a basket. 

 

Pleasingly laid-back, satisfyingly no-frills and packed with a character and charm befitting a truly Bristolian vibe, The Reckless Engineer is a proper city boozer that amply quenches the thirst and satiates the appetites of locals and visitors alike. 

 

5/5

For further info please head over to their Facebook page. Address: Temple Gate, Bristol BS1 6PL



Article by:

Jamie Caddick

Jamie is a writer, blogger, journalist, critic, film fan, soundtrack nerd and all-round Bristolian good egg.  He loves the music of Philip Glass, the art of Salvador Dali, the writings of Charles Bukowksi and Hunter S Thompson, the irreverence of Harry Hill, and the timeless, straw-chomping exuberance of The Wurzels.  You can sometimes find him railing against a surging tide of passing cyclists, or gorging himself senseless on the Oriental delights of a Cosmos all-you-can-eat buffet.