Steinbeck and Shaw
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
Nestled in Bristol's historic South Buildings, Steinbeck and Shaw is a vibrant cocktail bar blending speakeasy allure with lively nightlife. Graffiti-adorned walls, unique ceiling designs, and expertly crafted drinks create an electric atmosphere. Open late with happy hours, masterclasses, and booth bookings, it draws crowds for its creative cocktails, tasty bites, and infectious energy in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to Steinbeck and Shaw
- The South Buildings, Bristol, BS1 5UH, GB
- +441179279203
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Thursday 5 pm-1 am
- Friday 5 pm-1 am
- Saturday 3 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Book a booth ahead for groups, especially on weekends, to secure prime seating amid the lively crowd.
- Arrive during happy hour (5-10pm Thu-Fri) for half-price cocktails and maximum value.
- Opt for a cocktail masterclass to learn mixology tricks while crafting your own drinks.
- Pair burgers or sharing plates with cocktails for a satisfying pre- or post-night-out meal.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Steinbeck and Shaw location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Steinbeck and Shaw
Graffiti-Charged Speakeasy Vibes
Step into Steinbeck and Shaw, where the air hums with anticipation amid walls splashed in bold graffiti and ceilings featuring whimsical, oversized installations that catch the eye from every angle. Tucked within the atmospheric South Buildings of Bristol, this cocktail bar channels the spirit of hidden Prohibition-era haunts while embracing modern revelry. The decor fuses urban edge with playful creativity, setting the stage for nights filled with laughter and clinking glasses.Cocktail Craftsmanship at Its Peak
The heart of the venue beats in its bar, where mixologists wield shakers like artists, crafting drinks that balance bold flavors with precision. Signature cocktails draw inspiration from literary nods to Steinbeck and Shaw, often incorporating fresh, unexpected twists like house-infused spirits and artisanal garnishes. Happy hours extend the indulgence, slashing prices on these liquid masterpieces from late afternoon into the evening, making it a ritual for locals and visitors alike.Interactive Mixology Experiences
Beyond sipping, Steinbeck and Shaw invites participation through cocktail masterclasses, where guests don the role of bartender under expert guidance. These sessions unfold in an engaging format, blending instruction with fun as participants muddle, shake, and strain their own creations. The hands-on approach reveals the alchemy of mixology, turning novices into enthusiasts amid the bar's buzzing energy.Nightlife Pulse in Historic Surrounds
As evening deepens, the space transforms into a nightlife hub, with music pulsing and crowds gathering in cozy booths ideal for groups. Open until the early hours on weekends, it caters to those seeking a seamless shift from dinner drinks to dancing. The blend of historic architecture from the South Buildings with contemporary flair creates a timeless yet trendy escape in Bristol's vibrant core.Culinary Complements to the Drinks
While cocktails steal the spotlight, the menu offers hearty bites like gourmet burgers and sharing plates that satisfy late-night cravings. These dishes emphasize quality ingredients and generous portions, providing fuel for the night's adventures. The food pairs seamlessly with the drinks, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the bar's primary allure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Cary Grant
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Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
King George V Memorial Fountain
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Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Prince Street Bridge
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A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
Cascade Steps
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Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
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A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
The Matthew of Bristol
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Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Statue of Edmund Burke
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A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Old Post Office
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Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
The Nails
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Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Bristol Bridge
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A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
Medieval Vaults
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Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
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Explore the rich cultural heritage and history of Palestine at the Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre in Bristol, a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
Cabot Tower
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Capricorn Place
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Explore the architectural beauty of Capricorn Place in Bristol, a hidden gem that showcases the city's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
St Mary Redcliffe Church
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Medieval Gothic masterpiece and eight centuries of Bristol's maritime heritage in stone
Unmissable attractions to see
Bristol Aquarium
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Explore captivating marine life and conservation stories at Bristol Aquarium, a vibrant underwater world in the heart of Bristol.
We The Curious
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Discover Bristol’s vibrant science centre with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium in a playful, inclusive space.
Pero's Bridge
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Discover Pero's Bridge in Bristol, a blend of modern architecture and historic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views of the harbor.
Millennium Square
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A lively modern city park in Bristol’s harbourside, known for public art, water features, and festive events like the Vintage Winter Wonderland.
Narrow Quay
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Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
Harbourside
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Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
Watershed
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A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Bristol Cathedral
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Explore Bristol Cathedral’s majestic medieval hall church with soaring vaults, Gothic Revival nave, and centuries of rich history in the city’s heart.
Lloyds Amphitheatre
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A landmark postmodern amphitheatre and public space at Bristol’s harbourside, blending architectural heritage with vibrant cultural events.
Statue of Queen Victoria
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Explore the grandeur of the Statue of Queen Victoria in Bristol, a stunning historical landmark that embodies the city's royal heritage and charm.
Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy
0.2 km
Explore Bristol’s rich history and iconic Banksy street art on a captivating guided walking tour from College Green.
Bristol Ferry
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Scenic water transport linking Bristol's landmarks with friendly crews and harbour-side charm.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
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Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
Bristol Harbour Railway
0.3 km
Step aboard Bristol Harbour Railway’s heritage steam train for a scenic 15-minute journey through the city’s historic waterfront.
M Shed
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Discover Bristol’s vibrant history and harbour heritage in the dynamic and free M Shed museum on Princes Wharf.
Essential places to dine
Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
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Lively Latin American dining and cocktails with vibrant vibes by Bristol’s picturesque Harbourside waterfront.
Rick's
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Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The River Grille
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Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
The Bristol Stable
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Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
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Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Under the Stars
0.2 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
No.1 Harbourside
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Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Steak of the Art
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A bold Bristol steakhouse where art, design and expertly cooked meat come together in a vibrant Harbourside setting.
Hat Bistro
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Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
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Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Tare Restaurant
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Experience vibrant modern European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting overlooking Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
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Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Harbour & Browns
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Contemporary fusion dining in stylish shipping containers with harbour views at Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf.
Pieminister
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Award-winning British pies, piled high with mash, peas and gravy, in a lively harbourside restaurant with views of Bristol’s fountains and waterfront.
Gambas
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A vibrant Spanish tapas bar in a harbourside shipping container, serving excellent seafood and classic small plates with great views over Bristol Harbour.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
my a2space
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A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Will's doss pit
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Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Orendo
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Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Zhyper
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Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Something Elsie
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Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
Fig1
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Discover Scandinavian-inspired homewares and unique gifts at this independent Bristol gem, where clean lines meet creative curation in the heart of Wapping Wharf.
Alices Secret Empourium
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Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
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Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Ganesha
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Over Here
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Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
This Feeling
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Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
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Memories
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Quadrant Trading
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.0 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
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A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
The Architect
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Shakespeare Tavern
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Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
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Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
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Small Bar
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Kongs of King Street
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The Clockwork Rose
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Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
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Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
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Revolution Bristol
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Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
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Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
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Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Flight Club Bristol
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Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Street Art
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly