Seemor
Simon The TannerB+Worth Trying
231 Long Ln, London SE1 4PR
· Pub, Gastropub
· 4.5/5 Google (655 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
A small Bermondsey gastropub with standout beer curation, quality tunes, friendly staff, and a creative, compact menu; great vibe, occasional service or roast inconsistencies, and premium-for-pub pricing.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Simon The Tanner delivers solid neighborhood gastropub quality through genuinely welcoming and accommodating staff and well-executed contemporary pub cooking, but inconsistent roast execution and a tight physical footprint prevent it from reaching higher territory. The curated beer selection and indie character appeal to enthusiasts, though pricing on roasts occasionally feels steep for portions—a solid neighborhood favorite rather than a destination establishment.
Restaurant Summary
A neighborhood spot where the room feels warm and bustling without tipping into chaos, Simon The Tanner blends small-pub intimacy with serious beer and sound nerd credentials. Guests praise the team for being genuinely welcoming and nimble with groups, and more than one pint-seeker has stayed for dinner thanks to the chef-driven menu. As one diner put it, "The vibe is relaxed and the staff actually help you pick a beer that suits you." The cooking leans contemporary gastropub with confidence rather than flash, a style that feels produce-led and unfussy. Expect familiar comforts tuned up with cheffy details: a well-liked roast, a beetroot-caper twist on burgers, and vegan-friendly gnocchi. It suits people who enjoy a pint with thoughtful plates, not those chasing white-tablecloth theatrics. Pricing is mid-range for London pubs and aligns with the quality of ingredients. For families, the pub is casual and welcoming in the daytime, but there is no dedicated kids menu. That said, options like potato wedges and a chicken burger are likely wins, while tartare or gravlax read more adult. It can get lively on quiz night, so families may prefer earlier visits when the room is calmer.
At a Glance
- Friendly, accommodating staff who handle groups well
- Curated craft beer list and impressive vinyl sound system
- Creative gastropub menu with solid vegetarian and vegan options
- Roasts can feel pricey for portions on some visits
- Small space gets tight and louder on busy nights
What Sets It Apart
- vinyl_hifi_sound_system
- curated_craft_beer_lineup
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What People Love
- Approachable staff who offer tasters and suggestions
- A roast that hits comfort notes when on form
- A music-forward space with real hi-fi chops
- Beer list that balances quality and low/no options
Points of Concern
- Roast portioning and beef quality vary; a few guests felt shorted on trimmings or found beef fatty
- On busy nights with one chef, food delays occur but are typically communicated
- Small room and hard chairs can feel cramped or less comfortable during events
- A single-night cluster of rude-service complaints (Dec 2024) contrasts with the broader service pattern
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£33-43 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- If you eat plant-based, the Smoked Gazpacho and House Potato Gnocchi provide strong vegan options.
- For pub classics with a twist, try the Beef or Veggie Lindstrom; add wedges to share.
- Value route: Potato Wedges starter (£5) + Lindstrom (£16) + split dessert.
Perfect For
- A relaxed pint that turns into dinner
- Small group catch-ups with quiz night fun
- Beer lovers who enjoy guidance and tasters
- Solo bar visit with conversation and music
Location Insights
Area: Residential-meets-creative pocket of Bermondsey with indie breweries, design studios, and after-work pub culture.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical inner-London vigilance applies, especially late evenings.
Nearby: Near Borough/Bermondsey beer corridor, close to artisan producers and small galleries; quiz nights and music culture draw locals.
BermondseyA trendy and rapidly evolving neighborhood known for its warehouse conversions, artisan food markets, and contemporary dining scene. The area blends industrial heritage with modern urban living and has become a hub for innovative restaurants and creative spaces.
Long Lane CorridorA specific urban corridor characterized by converted industrial spaces, boutique workspaces, and emerging gastronomic establishments that reflect the neighborhood's ongoing transformation.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–23:00
Tuesday16:00–23:00
Wednesday16:00–23:00
Thursday16:00–23:00
Friday12:00–00:00
Saturday12:00–00:00
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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