In other cities, a bar on a boat would be a revelation. Here in Bristol, however, we are spoilt for choice. Work your way from Bristol Bridge and there is the Glassboat, Spyglass, Apple and Thekla. Along Anchor Road there is the Grain Barge. And in the centre, the newest addition to Bristol’s drinking, eating and dancing on water scene, Under the Stars.
Under the Stars was until recently The Ferry Station, which used to be the place to buy ferry tickets as well as hire bicycles. That side of the operation has now disappeared, to be replaced with a cafe, bar and restaurant which comes into its own as the sun sets, hence the name.
Wednesdays are film nights, with customers able to suggest the films they want to see (this week it was Jurrasic Park). Tuesdays are quiz nights. And Fridays are open mic nights.
But it’s not all about nocturnal activities. The boat is a perfect sun trap, with a large deck providing an ideal space to catch some rays while eating and drinking.
There is quite a choice of food, whether you choose to eat it upon deck or downstairs, with one large window on the Watershed side, five small portholes the other, and plenty of foliage.
When a lack of staff behind the marble bar – which serves Guinness, Bath Ales Bounders, Grolsch on tap – kept me waiting a while, my choice of food became more difficult. They serve lots of small plates, such as patatas bravas, baba ghannoush, tortilla and Thai fishcakes, and the choice was so good that I went for the whole lot with a mezze platter (£12). It was a veritable feast that I wolfed down as the chef peered around from beside the bar, no doubt approving.
Although still finding its sea legs, Under the Stars is a great new addition to Bristol’s floating nightspots.
Under The Stars, Narrow Quay.
