Bowers Tap Leeds review: I visited a 'traditional' city centre pub - and found it incredibly refreshing
Bowers Tap in Leeds city centre is marketed as a ‘traditional pub’.
All cards on the table, I’m not even certain what a traditional pub looks like. As a Brit in their 20s, I have spent my entire adult life being told pubs are not what they used to be by those older than me.
It has created a strange sense of awareness, where I have an image in my head of what I think a traditional pub is, painted by the experiences of elders. This image features cigarette smoke billowing through the air and garish carpets, with dry-roasted peanuts the meal of choice rather than a microwaved burger.
Bowers Tap in no way resembles this image I created in my head - but it does not mean there is not a refreshing sense of tradition to it.
It is a no-frills venue, free of gimmicks and futile attempts to appear unique or on top of trends. The decor is simplistic yet stylish, its seating arrangements comfy and suitable for conversation.
Old-school boozer aficionados would argue there is nothing traditional about Bowers Tap, that the mere presence of TV screens and food menus make a mockery of the very idea.
However, in a time when so many pubs strive for uniqueness only to lose sight of their purpose, I found the Bowers Tap’s focus on drinks, conversation and a shared sport viewing experience wonderfully basic.
It is part of the Social Pub and Kitchen Group and there is an air of similarity across their venues. While it may be a chain pub, there is charm in the warmth and friendliness of staff.
There is also the added bonus of a rather stunning and eclectic drinks selection. Some of the most beloved lagers in Europe, such as Asahi, Birra Moretti and Peroni, feature on the taps.
On the back wall behind the bar, five craft beer taps offer intriguing alternatives. All tastes are catered for, with Bowers Tap having a stellar selection of ciders, wines, spirits and alcohol-free options.
For a Leeds pub almost as central as they come, the prices are not too bad at all. Punters can enjoy a pint of Amstel for £5.25, or an Inch’s cider for £5.20. My pint of Asahi was slightly harsher on the wallet at £6.10 - but it didn’t half hit the spot.
Bowers Tap is not the ‘traditional’ pub I had in my head - but I think it can still be described as such.
Factfile
Address: 157 - 158 Lower Briggate, Leeds LS1 6BG
Telephone: 0113 244 2275
Opening hours: Sunday-Thursday: 12pm-11pm, Friday: 12pm-1am, Saturday: 10am-2am
Scores
Drinks: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Atmosphere: 8/10
Service: 8/10
Total: 7.75/10