The Three Wishes

Cozy Pub with Top Notch Drinks

As I strolled into The Tapping Post, cradled conveniently between the old railway station and the little knick-knack shop that’s promisingly labeled as “Aladdin's Cave," my expectations were mixed. On one hand, the place is fondly praised as a cozy winter haven with friendly bar staff and a commendable selection of beers—a truly inviting combo that any seasoned pub crawler like myself would find alluring. Once inside, the dimly lit interiors offered warmth and the flickering joy of ember, reminding me wonderfully of how a proper British tavern should feel in the thick of winter. The barman, whose name I regrettably forgot to capture in my mental Rolodex, epitomized the very essence of pub hospitality; friendly, efficient, and always with a ready pint.

Yet, contradiction hides round every corner at The Tapping Post. A handful of dicey patron decisions come from rather off-putting management practices—you’d think free tap water was some esoteric demand. Still, my sharp focus on beer (a lovely highlight) eclipses these small grievances; it’s enough to make me keep the glass half-full. Station-side location is handy, providing a seamless leap onto the next adventure. Rumors circle about it being a “dump” with appalling management, yet we savvy pub-seekers know better than to file such critiques under anything but curious footnotes. For those who prioritize character and craft, this quirky establishment, careening spiritually between meticulously referenced charm and riff raff chatter, floats attractively in the ethereal dance amidst the stars of veteran pub-goers everywhere.ختомIt delivers where it counts, proving a worthy stopover for locals and travelers alike, especially those seeking an escape from predictable pub plodding. — Milo Tastemaker