The Thirsty Bear | Robot Pub in SE1

There’s literally only one thing worse than having to queue for drinks at a very busy bar.

And that’s being somewhere with table service, failing to catch the waiter’s attention, giving up and then having to queue for drinks at a very busy bar.

Fortunately, the Robot Pub Group’s first London residence – The Thirsty Bear – cunningly solves all of these problems with an ingenious solution that you are absolutely guaranteed to believe you already invented yourself.

Like that time you came up with the idea for Facebook, you know, before it was invented.

Computerised screens on each table at the Thirsty Bear allow you to place orders for food and drinks; to surf the internet; to select tracks on the bar’s Jukebox and to do something you possibly didn’t think of (though you probably did): buy beer that you can then instantly dispense from the tap on your table.

The Thirsty Bear food options include homemade soups, slow-cooked BBQ ribs, sliders, fresh beer-battered haddock and the drinks menu, fortunately (for anyone unlikely to be tempted into drinking a pint, whether they pour it themselves or not) extends beyond beer into a growing cocktail list. 

This being the first touchscreen-operated bar in London, you ought to visit.

That way, in 40 years - when every bar, restaurant and shop works just like this - you’ll have a story to tell the grandchildren about the first one you ever visited in London. 

You can always keep that story about you inventing Facebook as a back-up.

Note: This video intro to The Thirsty Bear says it all... On busier nights (Thurs-Sat) you can book a table in advance by emailing or calling ahead.

Like quirky bars? Check out the Nudge’s guide to unusual bars in London