Tap East

Adrift of chain heaven – or hell, depending on your viewpoint – this little nugget offers respite from the consumerist frenzy of the Westfield shopping complex. Decked out in a style that seems to take its cue from mass-market coffee/burger chains, Tap East’s USP is a good range of ales, including several from its on-site microbrewery (check out the 6% abv stout). Ten pumps & hand-pulls are matched by superior UK bottled browns, US imports & ciders: typical shouts might include hoppy Magic Rock Rapture, Smokehouse Porter from Arbor Ales in Bristol, Thornbridge Black Harry, Harviestoun Schiehallion & beers from Otley of Pontypridd – good with a pork pie & a packet of Yorkshire crisps before hitting the retail therapy trail.