Against The Grain Bramley review: I visited a Leeds micropub that has expanded and starting serving pizzas
Over a year has passed since I visited Bramley to run the rule over Against The Grain.
It is fair to say I was impressed by the cosy micropub, fully and unapologetically lured in by its undeniable charm.
There were no complaints to be had, perhaps other than the fact there wasn’t more of it. I had read of expansion plans, which I was delighted to see get the green light.
It felt like the perfect excuse for a return visit, with the added bonus of pizzas now being served up on a daily basis.
The expansion has done no damage to the intimacy of the venue, with the new room just as cosy and stylish as the other. Temptations to let imaginations rum amok have clearly been ignored, with Against The Grain’s effortless feel intact.
There is merely more on-brand pieces of booze-related art, adding life and colour to the room. Against The Grain have prided themselves on their craft beer offerings from the very beginning and have remained committed to serving up fresh tastes.
A vast range of new drinks were on offer, but staples such as the Disco King pale were still taking pride of place.
I consider myself a fairly insufferable craft beer snob, but Against The Grain is not the type of place where those less interested will be judged. It may be a space for the likes of myself to indulge their snobbery, but more importantly it is a place for a drink and a conversation.
On my first visit, I raved about the service, therefore I was delighted when if anything I discovered it had improved further. Staff could not have been more warm and welcoming if they tried.
Reassuringly, it appears I am far from the only one sold on what is going on down at Swinnow Grange Mills. Yeadon now has its very own Against The Grain, suggesting the bug is starting to spread.
This is a bar review but I would be doing readers a disservice if I did not mention the pizzas. Made with fresh sourdough bases and homemade marinara sauce, they are restaurant-quality and creatively designed.
I opted for the Volcano, comprised of salami, mozzarella, goat’s cheese, chilli, jalapenos and red onion. It packed a fiery punch without being overwhelming, with taste more prominent than spice.
It is a venue that just keeps upping its game - and considering how busy it was when I visited, it appears the secret is out.
Factfile
Address: Swinnow Grange Mills, Stanningley Road, Bramley, Leeds LS13 4EP
Opening hours: Weds-Thurs, 3pm-11pm; Fri-Sat, noon-11pm; Sun, noon-9pm
Scores
Drinks: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Atmosphere: 9/10
Service: 9/10
Total: 8.75/10