WAYPOINTS: The Record Cafe, Bradford
The Record Cafe, Bradford (Image: Damien Wilkinson)
Where: The Record Café, Bradford
Preamble
Vibe-age: "Vinyl, Ale, Ham" is the theme for the establishment launched by owner Keith Wildman, over twelve years ago. With a vibe which introduces 1970’s decor to industrial-chic it’s a chilled sanctuary for the savvy real ale or craft beer connoisseur who appreciates the value of a good platter, be it in charcuterie or vinyl form.
It was recently crowned Bradford CAMRA Pub of the Year to add to three previous wins in this category.
Regular punters and frequentors:
Look up to the mezzanine and you’re likely to find audiophiles flipping through the latest vinyl, whilst ale enthusiasts enjoy some of the latest guest beers within the red-bricked clad interior of the bar beneath.
Not to forget those sampling the menu of Jamon Iberico, hand stuffed sausages, cheese, olives and premium tinned mussels, anchovies and sardines.
On Bradford City match-days you’ll find the place rammed with pre-match tension filled fans, discussing the Bantam’s latest chances or having good natured debates with away fans.
A monthly quiz, DJ sets, live music, the wonderfully esoteric sporting lunchtime lectures (eg Football in Chile in 1973 under Pinochet), hosting of the similarly obscure annual vintage bus tour around Bradford (eg Bradford’s sewage history, Germanic Bradford) as well as Cheese & Wine and similar events.
What do I need to know?
Q: How do I get there and what are the practicalities?
A: Head to North Parade in Bradford’s Independent Quarter. It’s about a 5-10-minute walk from Bradford Forster Square station. There’s a portable ramp for the step at the front door, though the vinyl section is on the mezzanine and only accessible by stairs.
Q: Did the tap list require a PhD to understand?
A: Not quite, but a map of Yorkshire helps. They keep four cask ales and nine craft keg lines flowing, featuring local heavyweights like Wishbone and Big Trip alongside international stars like Chimay.
Q: Is the beer actually good, or am I just paying for the cool label art?
A: It’s strictly top-notch fare, carefully curated and selected by the knowledgeable and passionate team. Expect a good rotation of beers between visits.
Q: Aaah, but I’m not drinking, what’s my poison Alcohol free-wise?
A: You’ll find canned alcohol low/almost free cans of craft beer such as Manchester brewery Track Arosa AF Helles Lager. They serve tea and coffee from local roasters Casa Espresso, plus a range of "characterful" soft drinks such as Fritz cola, for those keeping a clear head.
Track Arosa AF Helles Lager (Image: Damien Wilkinson)
Q: What’s the story on food and snacks?
A: Think outside of the "bag of crisps" arena and re-focus on hand-carved Jamón Ibérico, Spanish cheeses, and speciality tapas like octopus or squid in Galician sauce.
Q: Will my Dog or other significant others be welcome?
A: Absolutely. Dogs are very welcome, often receiving as much attention as the beer, but I’d steer clear of pre-match day crowds.
Q: How much did my wallet cry?
A: It’s fair for the independent quality. Expect a premium for some of the more esoteric options, especially the alcohol content loaded options where you drink in 1/3rds.
Note that it’s payment by Card only so leave the coins and notes at home.
The Record Cafe, Match Day (Image: Damien Wilkinson)
The Verdict
The "In a Few Words" Summary:
"A CAMRA anointed sanctuary where you can buy pick up that newly released record, eat world-class ham, and drink a pint of local gold all in one sitting."
