Vanessa’s Bar set to open in Waterloo this Spring

Waterloo is about to welcome a brand-new hotspot as Vanessa’s Bar prepares to open its doors on South Road this April.

Promising a stylish yet welcoming space where great service, expertly crafted cocktails, and community spirittake centre stage, Vanessa’s Bar is set to be a standout addition to the area’s thriving social scene.

Owner Vanessa Lovegrove says she’s creating a place where people can go to chat and socialise, and where service – and the best cocktails! – are key.

“I worked in bars in Waterloo when I was younger which I really liked because they had a strong sense of community,” she says.

“It was like walking into someone’s front room and that’s what I want to recreate with Vanessa’s Bar, with an aesthetic that’s very now.

Credit: Vanessa's Bar — Credit: Vanessa’s Bar

“It’s my name on the door and I want people to feel like they are coming into my house and having a drink with me. I’ll know their names, what they like to drink, and they’ll be treated how I want to be treated.

“Anyone can sell you a drink, it’s how they serve you that drink that makes or breaks your day or evening.”

Former accountant Vanessa, 50, began refurbishing Vanessa’s Bar with husband Stuart in November last year.

The look is distinctly speakeasy with rich red furnishings, glimmers of gold and wood, and striking statement flooring.

With a DJ booth and plans for live music, they’ve installed a state-of-the-art sound system and mood lighting, together with different zones within the venue: “It’ll depend on your mood where you want to go. There are quieter and more chill areas, and then towards the back we’ve got a dance floor.”

The small plates food menu will be mixed, with dishes like lamb koftas, grilled halloumi, chicken wings, salads and sandwiches, and specials like whipped ricotta with truffle honey (‘I had it in New York and it’s the favourite thing I’ve ever eaten’).

There’ll be a wide variety of beers and wines, but cocktails will be a huge feature with seasonal drinks and fresh ingredients being used, including some locally foraged additions.

Vanessa has also invested in a Bermar Fridge which has a preservation system that will keep sparkling wines fresh for 21 days after they’ve first been opened: “So we will be serving a variety of Champagne and wines by the glass as well as the bottle,” she says.

“During the daytime Vanessa’s Bar will be about nice lunches, coffees and cocktails – and it will definitely be family and dog-friendly – with a more lively atmosphere in the evenings.

“There’s a vibe that Waterloo is once again the place to be,” says Vanessa. “It’s up-and-coming, and the bar will be at the very heart of that.”

Vanessa’s Bar will be open Monday to Thursday, 11am-Midnight; and Friday to Saturday from 11am-2am.