Social

Dropped by Social at Copeland Park for a weekday lunch break and it’s a solid little spot. The area itself has a cool, artsy vibe and feels very up-and-coming. The space is a mix between a cafe and a pub, with an outdoor terrace that’s great when the weather’s nice. It’s definitely laptop friendly, though just a heads up there’s no wifi. That might be a dealbreaker for some, but it worked fine for me since I didn’t need to be connected. I ordered an Iced Black for £3.50 and it was a good coffee, especially at that price in London. Service-wise, it wasn’t the warmest. Let’s just say the team gives off that fashionably cool, slightly aloof energy. Not unfriendly, just not going out of their way either. It was a really warm day when I went and they hadn’t done much about the heat besides opening the windows. It did get a little uncomfortable inside, but to be fair, London rarely gets that hot anyway. Overall, it’s a decent spot to get some work done or take a break, especially if you’re into the creative, industrial-chic kind of vibe.

My family and I thoroughly enjoyed every dish we ordered at Japanese Street Food in Copeland Social. Everything was really good, but it's worth noting that most items are deep-fried. There are a few non-fried options, but it would be great to see some healthier choices added to the menu. That said, the taste of everything we tried was excellent, and we would definitely return.

I want to preface this by saying that I too work in service, at a bar. So I know how hectic it can be and difficult to coordinate the masses. But, I don’t think there was an excuse for how awful the security guard was to me last night (17/10). It was my birthday. I’d brought around 10 friends and we all bought multiple drinks. At 11:30pm, we planned to head off. I had left my phone charging at the bar and needed to go to the bathroom so I headed towards the door. The security guy physically blocked my way and said abruptly, ‘Bar’s closed’. No hello or sorry or smile. I explained that I wasn’t looking for another drink, but just needed to go to the bathroom and grab my phone before leaving. There were patrons drinking inside and outside, and the hours listed online are until midnight. It was 11:40pm by this point. He said, ‘Nope, bar’s closed’ and that he would go get my phone for me. I thought that was quite hardline, but, sure. I rejoined my friends outside for a bit. I felt desperate to go to the bathroom by now, and the only alternative seemed to be the alleyway. Seeing as they weren’t yet fully getting everyone to leave, I thought, surely I’ll try go to the bathroom here, I don’t see why not; I’ll ask a bartender as they’re the customer service people and might not be so harsh. I went up to the female bartender and she smiled and said, ‘Yeah, of course you can use the bathroom!’. I thought, great! So, I headed towards the bathroom, amidst the remaining patrons sitting inside finishing their drinks. However, the security guy saw me, loudly said NO, and physically blocked my way. He said, ‘Wow, no no no, now that’s just rude. That’s just rude. I told you no, and you go ask my colleague?!’ I tried to reason with him, I said, ‘Okay, I understand that you’re closing up, but please can I just go? I’m going to be a second, and the bartender said that it’s fine.’ To which he just said, ‘Out’. I got a bit teary because I was taken aback. I was under the weather as well and my voice was nearly gone. I both needed to go to the bathroom and deal with feminine hygiene. I said, ‘Bro, I’m desperate, I’m a girl. I’m not comfortable with going to the alleyway to go to the bathroom. Please, can you just let me use it?!’ No budge, he just repeated that I was rude and physically backed me towards the door. Back outside, I told my boyfriend about this, in tears. As we were leaving, my boyfriend said to him, ‘hey bro, my girlfriend just needed to go to the bathroom. It’s her birthday and she’s really upset- it’s disrespectful how you’ve spoken to her.’ He responded by swearing at us, while I was crying. All in all, this was a really upsetting end to my birthday, after having spent quite a bit of money at this place. I understand that the bar needed to close, but it was not a big deal, and it was not even midnight when I wanted to go to the bathroom. The rest of the staff were nice, but this guy was awful. A shred of kindness or basic customer service would have gone a long way. There are nicer ways to say no than telling your customer that she’s rude and swearing at her.

Loved it. Nice food and vibe - if the weather permits sit outside as the inside acoustics (plus bathroom hand drier noise- honestly !) are a bit jarring.

Great service. Nice food. Casual and welcoming vibe. Came in on the weekend with my two kids to see the exhibition next door. Super friendly staff - particularly the manager and the younger guy with a great moustache. Made my kids a special juice. Clean loos an added bonus. Sat in the sun and enjoyed our drinks.

Popped in for one drink, staff was very nice to me, and the space is very enjoyable!

If you want an overpriced burger and unwelcome staff this is the place to go! This burger with less than handful of chips costs £15.95! It is just bonkers and sad. The way to go!

If a bar could be described as timeless, it would be the Social, every time you visit (and I’ve been a few times) you know exactly what to expect, a comfortable, very chilled out, friendly place. Staff are always brilliant and first class at service. Drink selection is always very good and punters are a nice crowd too. It’s easy to visit on your own or with a group, there’s a nice outdoor space and a cool little gallery space next-door. I’ve still not eaten here yet, but hope to soon, food looks good.