The Walrus Club is a charming underground venue. Underground in two senses, the first is the literal (it's hidden away under the Regatta, the only suggestion of an entry is a small Walrus painted on some dark steps leading to the cellar at the back). The second sense in that it is you're stepping into a time of the prohibition and you're doing something you shouldn't be.
The place is dimly lit with very waxy candles and sounds of old-time jazz and cabaret set the mood. It is a rabbit warren. There are plenty of little hidey-holes and areas for groups and couples keep themselves hidden in and enjoy their evening.
The Walrus Club is primarily a rum bar, with an extensive list of rums available inside their "newspaper". The newspaper gives you an introduction to the place, the dress code and the drinks. If you are a rum fan, you will be spoilt for choice. I'm more of a whiskey fan, but fear not, they have a fine smaller (in comparison to the rums) selection of other spirits available. They also have wines and some great sounding cocktails. In terms of food, it's not really obvious what they have as there isn't really a menu as far as I'm aware, though I've had the cheese platter, and compared to some other places, it's great value for the price. If you're after something more substantial, you might be better having dinner beforehand or trying upstairs at the Regatta.
Now, the dress code. This one is important. I've been two the Walrus Club 3 times... scratch that. I've been twice, I got turned away the first time because I was wearing a t-shirt. That's fair game I think once you see the inside of the place. It probably helps keep the riff raff from upstairs out. The second time I wore a collared shirt and got in, and the the third (last night) I was wearing smart casual attire and almost got turned away by the bouncer for not wearing a collared shirt (I was) or leather shoes, but then he saw my ID (probably realising I'm not as young as I look) and let me through "this time". The "newspaper" says you should dress snappy and requires "closed-in" shoes. This is my biggest gripe with the Walrus Club. The inconsistency of what is required as a dress code, and that you are at the mercy of the bouncer.
If anyone from The Walrus Club is reading this, please sort this out, as it's a great inconvenience and disappointment to be turned away. Dressing "smart" or "snappy" isn't really enough of a guideline for guys.
Overall, I've enjoyed both times at The Walrus Club, and despite bad experiences with the bouncers, I look forward to returning again and reclining in their wonderfully comfortable arm chairs. Be assured that I'll dress even sharper next time! read more