Bruges was my introduction to the Belgian beer and waffle culture. I sampled the chocolate, too, which was delicious. However, the beer and waffles were a cheaper option and more generous in portion size. I’ve since enjoyed the experience in other Belgium cities. So, how does the Lowlander Grand Cafe in London compare?
London’s Premier Belgian café delivers. Its location in Drury Lane in the heart of Covent Garden attracts a broad clientele of theatregoers, tourists, and locals. It creates a casual, lively atmosphere.
As you walk into the bar, there is a quirky feel. The interior is unpretentious and basic, with wooden floors and furniture. On the walls are postcards and placards about various Belgian beers. There is plenty of seating available upstairs and downstairs.
Drinks
There are about 300 beers available, and the friendly and efficient staff are knowledgeable about what they stock. Most of the beers are Belgian, but there are a few guest beers, and there is a choice of bottled or draught. Each month, Lowlander has a New on Tap to bring you beers from around the world.
This month is a Gulden Draak Quadruple, 11%, a rich, complex beer with a full head, deep amber colour and four times more malt than lager. The palate is sweet and mellow with a fruity hint. The beer undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, resulting in a slightly sparkly feel. Golden Draak is a Belgian beer made in the East Flanders region and takes its name from the golden dragon atop Ghent’s Belfry.
One of Lowlander’s all-time favourites on tap is a Tripel Karmeliet. Another East Flanders beer that uses a recipe dating back to 1679. In 2008, the beer won a Gold medal at the World Beer Awards.
You don’t have to be a beer enthusiast to have a good time at Lowlanders. They serve various wines, spirits, Champagne, and non-alcoholic drinks, including beer, tea and coffee.
Food
Lowlanders receive a daily delivery of fresh mussels. Their Moules Marinières are a firm favourite, steamed in white wine with shallots, garlic, and parsley and finished with a topping of cream. They come with skinny fries or ciabatta for a price of £17.95.
There is a selection of Moules dishes, including those cooked in Belgian beer or with cider and Chorizo, or opt for a Moules Thai Curry or Provençal style. The price of all Moules dishes is £17.95.
Several vegan choices include Buffalo Cauliflower, spicy battered cauliflower with a vegan garlic mayonnaise for £7.95.
The homemade waffles are deliciously fluffy and crispy. They are available as a dessert or weekend brunch. The options are Belgian, Chocolate, or Eton Mess. The menu lists the calorie content. You might want to ignore that part if you’re calorie counting with up to 970 kcal. Indulge at £7.95.
Lowlander Grand Cafe holds several events, such as Waffle Bottomless Brunches and Supper Clubs. Coming up is King’s Day, celebrating the birth of Dutch King Willem-Alexander with Dutch beers, such as La Trappe Witte, the world’s only Trappist wheat beer. Trappist is a style of beer brewed by Trappist monks. Bitterballen, a plate of Dutch meatballs, is just one of a few Dutch dishes available to tuck into on the night.
Our Rating
Practical Information
Opening Hours: Seven Days a week from 12 pm, with closing times,
- Monday to Thursday at 11 pm
- Friday and Saturday at 11.30 pm
- Sundays at 10.30 pm
Lowlander is popular and is busy at weekends, so booking a reservation is advisable, particularly if you have theatre tickets.
Address: 36 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RR
Telephone: 020 7379 7446