The Titanic Pub - A classic example of a proper pub

When I was going to the fireworks back in November I wanted to go for a bite to eat beforehand, somewhere in the Old Town that's close enough to Mayflower Park I can wander over after I'd finished eating. There are plenty of great spots nearby, but I wanted to go somewhere I'd not been before. So I chose The Titanic. They've been around since 1887 (albeit under a different name until 2012) so they feel properly embedded in Southampton. Many passengers likely experiencing their final taste of home here way back in 1912. It could easily lean too hard into this theme and be a tourist hub but it's really not. To me it's a perfect example of a classic pub.

An outside shot of the Titanic Pub

From the outside it's very traditional, inside is cosy without being too cramped (I will point out it is a small venue!) There's even a pub dog that I was just waiting to see arrive (and it did alongside who I assume is the owner!) with it's very own bed by the bar. A proper place you can easily settle into for a long night.

We had booked a table, however when we arrived they seemed to have no recollection or notice of the booking, despite being confirmed via their facebook page weeks in advance. Not an issue, as the tables were free so we just slotted into an available one. It did get busier as the evening went on, with all tables full and bar propped up by regulars. I didn't realise until visiting they had regular live music nights! A very nice accompaniment to a pint!

Now, the food. To start we got a trio of starters. Halloumi fries, bubble bobble shrimp and chicken karaage. The halloumi fries were gently breaded and served with a generous amount of chili jam, perfect salty little bar snack. The chicken karaage was a hit too, served with hoisin (not a traditional accompaniment for this dish, but it was well enjoyed!). Finally the bubble bobble shrimp which were stand out. HUGE shrimp in a puffed rice crumb, really delicious and honestly felt like a steal at just £8! (Or 3 dishes for £18!)

From front to rear: Halloumi Fries, Bubble Bobble Shrimp and Chicken Karaage

For main, I tried the 1912 burger. A good quality patty served with mustard mayo, fried onions, bacon, pickle, onion rings and cheese, served with fries. It sounds basic but pub grub should be solid and hearty, this burger admittedly didn't have the best presentation, opting for carboard trays instead of plates but I personally feel pub grub should be simple, cheap and filling which this definetly was.

The 1912 Burger with Fries

No dramas on the bar either, classic drinks available on tap. Nothing too special, but you're not going there for an elegant cocktail night. You're visiting to catch up with friends, watch the footy or watch live music with a pint. I will admit they poured a damn good Guinness!

A well-pulled pint of Guinness

The Titanic could easily trade purely on its name and location. Being tied to one of the most famous ships in history gives you an automatic hook but what makes it work is that it doesn’t rely on that alone. It’s a proper Southampton pub. Warm. Relaxed. Unpretentious. Somewhere you can bring your mates, your parents, or just yourself for a quiet pint and a bite.

Sometimes that’s all you need. Worth a visit if you're looking for somewhere casual in the old town.