55 Watergate St, Chester CH1 2HG

About This Pub

Ah, Assembly Bar – it's one of those places in Chester that can really shine on a good day, but it has its off moments too, doesn't it? From what I've gathered chatting about it, the cocktails are a absolute highlight; they're well-made and hit that perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon or evening out. Pair that with some beautifully presented food that's full of flavour – think dishes like the fish with ginger that people can't stop raving about – and you've got a winner. The staff often come across as genuinely friendly and welcoming, and I love the little extras like the dog-friendly events and those thoughtful gift bags for your pooch; it's those kinds of touches that make a visit feel special. But, let's be honest, it's not all smooth sailing. There are times when the service falls flat, with some staff seeming a bit short or even mixing up orders, like serving plain coke instead of what you asked for. Plus, the prices can be a bit eye-watering for what you get, and there are stories of bartenders not quite delivering on the premium drinks front. Overall, if you're heading to Chester, it's worth popping in for the positives, but maybe keep your expectations in check and go on a day when things are buzzing right. I'd say give it a try, but have a backup plan just in case!

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The cocktails are absolutely spot on – I've heard they're fabulous and really hit the mark for a refreshing drink.
  • The food is a real treat; it's beautifully presented and delicious, with highlights like the fish with ginger that folks rave about.
  • Staff are super friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home, and there's a lovely hands-on manager who keeps things running smoothly.
  • It's a fantastic spot for dog lovers, with events like the 'dog pawty' and even gift bags for your furry friends – such a nice touch.
  • Service can be excellent when it's on form, with attentive waiters who make your visit memorable.
Cons
  • Some staff come across as rude, which can put a dampener on the evening, especially if you're umming and ahhing over the drinks menu.
  • Drinks are on the pricey side – we're talking £7 for a single spirit and mixer, which might sting a bit if you're out for a casual pint.
  • There have been mix-ups with orders, like getting just a coke when you asked for vodka and coke, which is a bit frustrating.
  • The bartenders aren't always on top of things, with reports of cheaper spirits being passed off as premium ones – that's not ideal.
  • The drink selection seems a tad limited, making it tricky to find exactly what you're after.

Contact Information

55 Watergate St, Chester CH1 2HG
Bar
Closed today

Opening Hours

Monday (Today)Closed
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday16:00 - 23:00
Thursday12:00 - 23:00
Friday12:00 - 00:00
Saturday12:00 - 00:00
Sunday12:00 - 22:30

Location

Recent Reviews

Wouldn’t recommend Bartender was clueless, first order, ordered vodka and coke, got just coke and was charged for just a coke. 2nd order ordered a buffalo trace old fashioned, bartender starts making it with JD, only a 50% mark up difference on price. Clearly passing off drinks as being one product when actually made with cheaper brands. Passing off is against all licensing laws!
MG
Mr Gray
In my opinion, the worst bar in Chester. Me and a few of my friends popped in for a drink the other day. The prices were ridiculous (£7 for a single spirit and mixer). All the staff were so rude to us as me and my friends were indecisive of what we wanted to drink( due to there limited selection) but we weren’t disruptive to the service with this as it was just us at the bar. The staff were outright talking about us infront of us as they started pointing at us and staring. The manager then asked us “ what’s your problem” which I thought was rude as there was no problem, we were just still deciding. My friend didn’t think her payment went through so she asked if they could check as she didn’t want to not pay for her drink, in which the manger told her “ it’s not our job to check that it’s yours”. But because of there non existent WiFi she found it hard too. The whole experience was uncalled for and the attitude of every staff member was rude for no reason at all. Won’t be going in again and wouldn’t recommend it to anyone.
MW
Madeline Ward
Visited this place on Saturday, went in for a drink at lunch time, had a couple of fabulous cocktails. Liked it that much we booked a table for food for the evening. The food was beautiful and well presented. The staff were very friendly and welcoming. The gentleman running the place was very hands on and very good at he job. I would 100% recommend this place, when visiting Chester.
JW
Joanne Wassall
We had an excellent experience. The service was very good and James our waiter was very attentive. The cocktails were on point and the food was delicious. The fish with ginger and stems was particularly good. I would recommend
SH
Sara H
Best tapas we've had in a long while. Lovely friendly service and a great chef. Recommend a visit if you're in Chester.
M
Melanie

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