Tank and Paddle, Heddon Street | London

March 12, 2018 in food, london, things to do

As I’m sure you all know, at this point, I love pizza (who doesn’t?). What you might not know, however, is that I am, slowly, becoming a bit of a fan of beer. I mean, it’ll never take over my love for prosecco, of course, but being with a guy who’s a bit of a beer nerd for the past two years has slowly taken its toll, and now I actually choose it over other options, on occasion. Weird.
Anyhow, needless to say, when Tank & Paddle opened the doors to their new Heddon Street branch earlier this year, I was, of course, interested, and luckily, they invited me and a few of my favourite gals to try out their menu – who could resist?

Tank & Paddle offers fresh tank beer from Meantime Brewery – delivered straight from the brewery tanks to theirs, so it’s fresh and doesn’t need filtering – and equally fresh stone baked pizzas with a huge selection of toppings (which they bake in the oven on a paddle – get it?). Oh, and they have shuffleboards. Because why not?

The decor at the Heddon Street branch is incredible. Steel piping, teal seats, low lighting, chalk boards, and exposed brickwork all add to the charm of the friendly eatery, and make it the perfect place for unwinding after a long day.

THE FOOD

I believe you can always test the quality of a pizza place by their margarita pizza, and I wasn’t disappointed. The bases are thin and crispy, and the toppings (and portions) are generous. There’s just enough variety that there’s something for everyone, too – whatever your preference.
The real star of the show, however, was the mac and cheese. Rich, creamy, but not sickly, and with a dash of mustard which gave it the most incredible warmth…my stomach is rumbling just thinking about it, now. They even do a version with pulled chicken, which made me regret my decision to go fully vegetarian this year (am I joking? Who knows). Do not go here without trying the mac and cheese. Just don’t.

THE DRINK

The beer is, of course, the star of the show – Tank & Paddle switch up their draught beers often, and the bartenders really know what they’re talking about – but there are some other delicious options, if Meantime Brewery, Brewdog, Beavertown, or Aspall (amongst others) can’t tempt you. Bloody Mary? Glass of Rosé? Pornstar Martini? They’ve got them. Heck, if it’s been a really long week, just grab a bottle of prosecco and vent. You’ve earned it.

THE DEALS

Mondays are Dough MG Mondays – any pizza is £5, as opposed to the usual £8.50-£9.50; ‘Tank Tuesdays’ see the first 100 pints at £2 from 5pm; Tap 10 Wednesdays get you a beer and a pizza for £10. Whatever your budget, and whichever day you choose to pop in, you should be able to find a deal for you and whoever deserves an invite.

THE VERDICT

Tank & Paddle is unpretentious, warm, and inviting. The food is delicious, and their Heddon Street branch is central enough that it’s perfect for a meal or drink after work. There’s a beer for every brew-nerd, and it’s hard not to feel your cares melt away whilst yelling at your friends for beating you at shuffleboard.
The prices are pretty friendly, too – so what are you waiting for?