City of London Distillery Bar, Blackfriars: 20/20

Location: 22 - 24 Bride's Lane, London, EC4Y 8DT

Website: www.cityoflondondistillery.com 

Visit: Any evening of the working week

To Note: Definitely a week night place so impress your work mates 

Scores
Ambiance 5/5
Design 5/5
Drinks 5/5
Staff 5/5 

Part of me feels guilty that I have not reviewed COLD (City of London Distillery) before, but the other part is glad I waited to see how it has evolved ; and that is from a large space filled with ex-pub furniture to a home from home.

There is a lot of PR out there about how COLD developed so I will keep it short but Jamie Baxter – previously of Chase Distillery – set up small vodka and gin still in this basement bar with owner Jonathon just a couple of hundred yards from Blackfriars Bridge down a small side street and both distils and offers tours here. And from that has developed COLD bar, taken over by the inimitable London Bar Consultants and sporting 130 gins with various tonics, garnishes and classic cocktails.

But you want to know what you get here. Well dark green walls lend a warm feeling to this bar and although it is a very large space, there are intimate cubbies with couches at the back, large tables suited to groups that the City will inevitably attract and best of all, plenty of seats at the bar. On top of that every time I have walked through the door it has felt like a bar-hug. (Yes, it is becoming difficult to visit without bumping into someone I know!)

The drinks are presented in this lovely menu (see pic!) and break the gins into regional, style but frankly the staff are SO well trained here just ask them, they all have knowledge and different preferences or go for a flight. The cocktails are beautiful and The Ford is still my favourite adapted from the late 1800’s and showing the cocktail pedigree of the team behind the menu – Lewis and Nate.

But if it wasn’t for the fact that COLD bar hugs you, if it wasn’t for the brilliant drinks (and very generous platters of food) I would still come here for the service. The team has been together from the start and it shows. There is great banter, camaraderie and all underlined with total friendliness to customers. Nate often runs classes there and will show various gins against their own gin, Alfie wears a permanent smile and is a sponge for gin knowledge and Leon – just down from Manchester – is another welcome addition to a strong team with several cocktail competition wins already under his belt.

So all that is left to say is, what are you waiting for?! And for once this space is large enough that you do not need to worry about telling your friends, a nice benefit amongst London’s ever increasing tiny basement joints. Oh and if you are looking for a private party venue…look no further. Superb. 

A Trip to Barcelona... Dry Martini and Eclipse (15.5/20)

Dry Martini

Location: Aribau 162, Barcelona 08036

Website: www.javierdelasmuelas.com/eng/dry/barcelona/dry-martini

Visit: Thursday evening

To Note: The restaurant may look quiet but the bar is always buzzing

Scores
Ambiance: 3/5
Design: 5/5
Drinks: 3.5/5
Staff: 4/5

On asking a friend based in Barcelona for recommendations I got a 6 page document and luckily hit upon the Dry Martini bar on a wander home one evening. We looked dubiously through the empty restaurant but on turning the corner we found the bar entrance and pitched up at one end of the long mahogany bar. The walls were lined with old spirits and bottles and there were cabinets like chemistry labs stating “the evolution of the martini”. Staff were pristine in white coats and bow ties.

They do not have a menu, however our charming bar tender simply asked what spirits and flavours we liked, long or short, and got to work. My companion had a long ginger and whisky drink and my gin fizz was fine, a little diluted perhaps. The downside of having no menu = no prices. But we were pleasantly surprised to see the drinks came in at less than €10 each.

The crowd seemed to be a mixture of locals, ex pats and a few tourists but there was a constant hum and overall a bar you could happy wile away a few hours if you are looking for a quieter evening.

Eclipse at W Hotel

Location: Placa de la Rosa del Vents, Barcelona 08039

Website: www.w-barcelona.com/eclipse-bar

Visit: Friday evening

To Note: Get there before 7.30 or book ahead, the evenings kick off about 11pm

Scores
Ambiance: 3/5
Design: 5/5
Drinks: 3.5/5
Staff: 4/5

Set in the windsurf sail styled building at the end of the harbour and up 26 floors, the Eclipse is

accessed by its own lift from the lobby of W Hotel. We arrived at 7pm as it opened so grabbed a window seat and watched over the next hour as the sun set and the view changed till the lights inside reflected attractively on the windows. Eventually we could no longer see the private beach and pool directly below the bar but watched as the lights of Barcelona lit up everything from the Park Guell to the lighthouse, all contained within the mountains.

The crowd had a fair few tourists, this is after all set in a hotel, but also some glamorous locals and most importantly friendly staff who were stopped every few minutes to take photos! Even if you do not get a window seat, others may prefer to take a sofa that runs down the middle to look out over the harbour from a comfier position.

Cocktails were about €12 - €15 as expected in a bar like this, and you have to pay for water too! However I was impressed by my tequila and wasabi creation even though the barman insisted that mine was the passion fruit one. We swapped after he had left. My companion’s drink – with the passion fruit – missed the mark a little tasting sweet and fruity and not much else.

An hour later we headed for dinner (up another tower down the road) but if money was no object I would happily spend an evening in W, especially as I heard the lift hostess answer that things got pretty buzzy around 11pm… 

A trip to Bristol and two gems… Hyde and Co (20/20) and The Woods (19/20)

Let’s start at Hyde and Co, the top of a steep hill for ladies in heels!

Location: 2 The Basement, Berkley Cresecent

Website: www.hydeandcobristol.net

Visit: Various mid-week evenings

To Note: It is “speakeasy” but following the address is easy and buzz to be let in

Scores
Ambiance: 5/5
Design: 5/5
Drinks: 5/5
Staff: 5/5
Extra LBS star: I’ll stick to top marks

The entrance

Now as I was writing up the scores I found I really could not fault this bar. And that is even taking into account how everyone I’d met told me how great the bar scene in Bristol is.

Once inside (a buzzer outside flashes the bar lights so you will not be disturbed once in) the space is nicely designed to feel like you can curl up in a corner for a tete-a-tete or pull up a chair at the bar and enjoy the skills of the bar staff. Lighting is subtle and comfy couches sit alongside low antique tables and large mottled mirrors; You know the style. The music is jazzy 20’s style but I would describe Bristol as “speak easy” by necessity. It is the spaces that offer themselves to this concept rather than bar owners going out to create a speakeasy. If that makes sense…

Spey Honey

The bar manager Mark is an absolute star handling drink orders with panache, never breaking off a conversation and he treated me to a tasty nip of aged Tapasita tequila, friend for life! The menu is intriguing enough to have a read rather than going off-piste and I would seriously recommend the Spey Honey made with Glenrothes whisky and plum liqueur – a favourite ingredient of mine. And whilst Mark makes the drinks the floor staff flit from table to table ensuring you have enough water, drinks and are generally content. Which everyone is.

So, one not to miss and onto…

The Woods

Location: 1 Park Street Avenue

Website: www.thewoodsnbar.co.uk  

Visit: Various mid-week evenings

To Note:  Another steep hill ladies but not so long!

Scores
Ambiance: 4/5
Design: 5/5
Drinks: 5/5
Staff: 5/5

I think if I get to revisit The Woods in summer, this will easily be a 20/20 with a courtyard to enjoy the warmer weather in. As is, this reminds me somewhat of Milk Thistle in Bristol (sister to Hyde&Co) with a grand country house style, dark green walls, the bar on the ground floor and a wooden balcony above overlooking this ground floor room and its walls lined with some interested skulls.  Similarly the seating is either leather couches or pull up a high stool at the bar. (I was also told that this venue really picks up later on with the ground floor packing out for dancing).

Their cocktail menus tend to go walk about so best just to have a chat with the very competent staff, and come armed with sweet/sour, long/short and a base spirit; let them do the rest. And if your base spirit is whisky or bourbon all the better because with over 100 you are spoilt for choice. I tried an oooold Bruichladdich as a special treat then their recommended – current – favourite bourbon, Rock Hill Farm

Staff were very happy to chat between making drinks whilst also being aware of other customers, the music etc, basically a well-run joint. So why the point off? As I mentioned I was not here at the right time, and a group of friends, half of whom were doing shots of Patron Café in the corner, seemed a little odd for a Wednesday 9pm. 

Another one to hit for a boogie once you have had your quiet chat at Hyde & Co.

Overall, Bristol has a lot to offer with Milk Thistle, Goldbrick House and Hausbar all pushing boundaries and great restaurants (try Cherry Duck) helping too

New Bar Opening: Mizuwari, Soho

Location: 16 Old Compton Street, W1D 4TL

Website: www.bincho.co.uk/whisky-joint 

To Visit: Open as restaurant, every day between 5pm and close. No bookings

To Note: Walk past the charcoal grill and its delicious smells towards the back then down the stairs

Mizuwari, which translates as “mixed with water”, has officially opened its doors; or at least the stairs that lead down from the back of Japanese grill restaurant Bincho Yakitori. Situated beside LAB on Old Compton Street, you need to walk to through the restaurant to the stairs to find this “1950’s Japan” inspired whisky joint. The room can hold about 40 people and is kitted out with low wooden tables and stools to match the wooden screens on the walls, set off by large swords as decoration.

This is the work of Suntory, and shows off their three expressions Yamazaki, Hakushu and Hibiki. And this is all they will be serving. But if you think that whisky is not “your thing” think again as their list of cocktails is very impressive from a simple twist of elder-flower and soda to a tea-ceremony type drink with wasabi paste. And if you are whisky-mad and this is your “died and gone to heaven” place, why not consider their bottle keep service? Buy your bottle now and it will be waiting for you with your name on each time you return. Just try not to over-do it with the most expensive option at over £500 a bottle! They also have decanters of water purified to an ancient recipe with high grade Japanese charcoal, the same as used upstairs, to water down some of those high abvs.

So if you are a fan of whisky, if you are a fan of cocktails or even if you are just a fan of some innovative (in London) Japanese cooking don’t forget the newest hidden drinking den. 

(Pictures courtesy of 360 Communications, the brill PR team behind Suntory UK)

Brewdog, Shoreditch: 17/20

Location: 51-55 Bethnal Green Road, E1 6LA

Wesbite: www.brewdog.com

Visit: Several occasions, always early evening

To Note: Underdog to open soon…oh and don’t trust google maps to get you there!

Scores

Ambiance: 4/5

Design: 4/5

Drinks: 5/5

Staff: 4/5

Extra LBS star: Not this time, perhaps when the bar opens proper…

I had heard a lot about Aberdeen-shire based Brewdog before I first tried the beer – at a fine bar in Borough Market called The Rake (see here). My first experience was the classic “Punk IPA” and then I moved onto “Trashy Blonde”; I loved both but they are unusual beers, not for everyone and nothing wrong with that either.

Brewdog Imperial Nail

So I have watched the expansion of the Brewdog “pub” empire with interest from their arrival in England in military tanks to their share purchase scheme and two days ago I finally organised a meeting with friends at the new Shoreditch venue. We arrived at 4.30pm on a Saturday to find there were no free seats but plenty of standing space not obstructing the bar and 30 minutes in and we managed to bag a booth, made for 6 or 8 really friendly people. You need to be close anyway with all the old wall tiling and concrete everything (floor, ceiling, pillars) the sound has nowhere to be absorbed and a few hours in it was hard not to shout across the table.

You come here for the beer, our one non-beer drinker had a choice of two ciders. I wouldn’t even ask about wine. And what really makes this place great is the staff. I explained that I loved their Punk and Trashy, they suggested an Imperial Nail which looked like Guinness but tasted really fruity. I was offered a taste and when I ordered a pint was advised it came as a 2/3^rd, because at 8% a pint is a little too much. Then I reverted to a lighter, fizzier (perhaps one for imported larger drinkers) Dead Pony IPA at just over 3% and the last one… a small glass of 14% Isle of Arran which, frankly, just tasted like Port. Very nice but the glass I had was more than enough.  It is a sign of London living that £4 a pint seems reasonable, but I have paid more than that for bad Stella in this city so have no issue at this price for excellent beer with knowledgeable staff and a really nice buzz. We also had a great time trying each other’s different beer choices, a conversation starter really from the name “tactical nuclear penguin” to the taste.

It is not accurate to say Brewdog is a “pub” despite their beer emphasis, it is kind of a bar/pub which serves innovative Japanese snacks to complement the drinks list. And in a short while their “Underdog” will be open too. The downstairs area has already been host to some live music and the new vintage of hops tasting but there is more to come, just follow here… @Brewdogshored. I look forward to many more beer sessions here though watch the percentages, you have been warned! 

London Cocktail Week : Wednesday - Golden Bee

After 4 events I thought I was heading home but there was the chance to hit one more bar taking part in the £4 offer... so it was with foodie/drink-ophile Wilkes (wilkes888.wordpress.com) that I took advantage of a dry evening to visit roof top Golden Bee. 

This can be found above the aptly name "adult bar" The Horns and the door is just off Old Street. One flight of stairs, in which hangs an elaborate chandelier that would look tacky anywhere else, brings you to a rather spectacular display of bling. The bar was, I initially thought, sponsored by Finlandia but actually that was just one "swirl" (see pic) and they had a good range of products. Outside is the first level with seating and a mezzanine level which would be great to curl up in with a group of friends. But don't bother with all this. Take the spiral stairs up to the top - there is a bar there too - and snuggle under the rugs near the heat lamps to enjoy the views. OK. There are not like Paramount, this is old street after all. But it is a unique perspective on an area I know well. 

There were two barmen, one was training the other when we went, and since this was the first time he made the drink I say kudos to him, it was well put together. I suspected that Golden Bee may have missed the boat only opening at the end of the summer but on a dry winter evening they are certainly doing everything they can to keep you warm up there. The manager - who barely looked old enough to drink! - was friendly and helpful when he heard us discussing when it opened and informed us that it was generally pack Friday and Saturday nights with a clubby feel and the dancefloor will rock, So one to bear in mind if you are looking for a boogie in the area. 

I have heard some people complaining that it is tacky however I think you need to take Golden Bee for what it is: fun, roof top cocktail bar that doesn't take itself too seriously. I think I will be back, but if you go do take someone to snuggle up to as the temperatures drop! It may even be quite special in the snow...!

Bourne and Hollingsworth, Centre: 20/20

Location: 28 Rathbourne Place, off Tottenham Court Road

Website: www.bourneandhollingsworth.com

Visit: Weekday Evenings

To Note? Another basement joint, go just round the corner and look for the black abnd white print on the wall

Scores

Ambiance 5/5

Design 5/5

Drinks 5/5

Staff 5/5

Extra LBS star: not when you have experienced the joys of The Fourth Wall…and The Blitz…but I wouldn't change a thing here! 

I was not taken by surprise at the interior of this cocktail bar having been to their pop up, The Fourth Wall, however without pre-warning you may wonder if you just stepped into Grandma’s living room. The walls are papered in yellow floral print. The tables are covered covered in lace clothes. There is a fireplace. And a Mary Poppins lamp. And there are very good cocktails.

Already a huge fan from the events they run – The Blitz for one which I have been remiss at writing up – I have tried some of their menu like ReBourne and Hollingsworth Fizz. Their menu is a folding miracle with each opening revealing another page but there are grouped in an easy-to-read manner and handily show the glass style beside each one (in case you have a need to go elegant, or for a long drink). There was no water on offer – fail – but the drinks which were a very pink Ginger Daisy and a Cherry Sidecar were nicely balanced and well priced at just £7.50 each. The bar staff are also friendly and really know their stuff.

In the midst on no reservations London, you can reserve one of the 8 or so tables round the edge of the room and you’d be advised to do this if arriving later than 8pm or with a group; having been here late before, once the DJ hits the decks you won’t want to leave either.

An absolute gem in the centre of London but shh, don’t tell everyone! 

Bar Nightjar, Shoreditch: 18/20* (re-reviewed)

Location: City Road, just off the Old Street roundabout

Website: www.barnightjar.com 

Visit: Friday night

To Note: If you reach a dodgy sandwich shop you're gone too far, look out for the bouncer to guide you and book!

Scores

Ambiance 5/5

Design 5/5

Drinks 4/5

Staff 4/5

Extra LBC star: * For great music and excellent last minute catastrophe cover

So back in November 2011 I reviewed Bar Nightjar, and since then I have visited a plethora of speakeasies, 1920’s nights and cocktail bars across London. So what would I think on my return?

Well, the greeting at the door is one reason why I have stayed away this time. They keep you waiting outside, firmly unwelcome, until your name is taken, confirmed, someone comes to get you from upstairs, someone then opens the door downstairs and takes you to your table. Now I don’t mind all this but for heavens sake would a smile and a “Good Evening, I do hope that you have booked to join us as we have a very popular evening of music”. The door staff could learn a thing or two from the wait staff, who are lovely.

We got stuck right into the cocktail menu and as mine did not show up for 10 minutes (an oversight) they apologized with a glass of champagne whilst it was getting prepared. And let me tell you there was serious drink envy going on. The Stonefence (I think!) came in the most fascinating little wooden bucket with a wooden straw; a Plantation Potion had a singed cape gooseberry that meant you smelt bonfire before the coffee infused palate kicked in. If you hadn’t guessed, presentation is a lot of what goes on here but do not undermine how good drinks are either. I was intrigued by the Moby Dick with its whale skin infusion but opted for a slightly disappointing B-A-Q Daiquiri. No matter, they got it bang on with the The Commodore which not only came with a floating chocolate cup of Chocolate Eau-de-Vie but also a square of dark chocolate topped with a cherry. We also indulged in some “El Presidente” chocolate truffles – we missed dessert! – which were rich and tasty but more of an alcoholic kick would not have gone amiss.

Lastly we opted for a steaming teapot, how could we resist the lure of dry ice in a cocktail?? This was called Nightjar TT Punch and consisted of Hendricks, Rhum, chai and lime and was fabulously fresh and well balanced, slipping down all too easily.

The live music we went to see had “a catastrophe” however we were all refunded and they got another band to step in. They did not start till 11pm but we caught a good half hour and they were good enough to make us want to return. In fact I already have my next two cocktails I want to try marked out from the playing card pack of recipes….!

Great night, why not get a group of friends together, dress up and enjoy this bar to the full. Its not cheap, but you’d be hard pushed for a better speak easy experience in London. 

LCC Goodge Street: 19/20*

Location: 61 Goodge Street, W1T 1TL

Website: www.londoncocktailclub.co.uk 

Visit: Friday night, and it was PUMPING! 

To Note: Go early or book if you want a seat, this could get messy...

Scores

Ambiance 5/5

Design 4/5

Drinks 5/5

Staff 5/5

Extra LBC star: * Of course, that's for GM Lee 

I arrived about quarter past six on a Friday and nabbed the last two bar stools though a group looked like they had been enconsed in the back for hours and couples would like the booths that run down the wall as you enter and look out on the action. It did get busier as the night went on, being lent over on occasion to place orders, but the bar men are incredibly on the ball with keeping everyone happy and drinking. 

I started with an Aviation, made with Bombay Dry I was delighted to see and a delicious, fresh cherry was a nice touch. I also had a little bowl of the honey nad mustard sausages and I cannot recommend the food enough! Like Callooh Callay, there is some serious work going on in the kitchen and the pairings are well wroth checking out from sliders to popcorn. Then when my friend arrived and ordered a Pina Colada, a drink I avoid at all costs, I had to take a sip and found it balanced really nicely (as well as a big tasty garnish). We moved onto some more classics (of The LCC) but the smokiness of the Bacon and Eggs (a favourite of mine) was too much for her so I took over and passed over a daiquari type drink that was made for me and which she promptly ordered again! 

I finished on an Earl Grey Martini served with a strawberry topped custard cream on the side of the tea cup. Another triumph, that's all I can say. 


Fabulous team behind the bar. Awesome music. It took all i had to drag myself away for dinner. At 9pm. 


I will be back. 

Gas Light Grill at The Lost Angel, Battersea: 17/20

Location: 339 Battersea Park Road (between Clapham Junction and Queenstown Road)

Website: www.gaslightgrill.co.uk

Visit: a sunny Thursday evening launch night

To Notes: If you like the Blind Tiger/Lost Society or PKD look this is for you

Scores

Ambiance 5/5

Design 4/5

Drinks 3/5

Staff 5/5

Extra LBC star: With time…

I would not normally write a review of a bar after one visit, especially as that visit was the launch night, and it was HOT when everything seems rosier. But I liked it and I want to spread the word. The Lost Angel has been revamped and they have spruced up the restaurant area – the Gas Light Grill – to make a pub that looks rather ordinary from the outside something rather special once you walk in.

The first room is large, wooden floored with a horse shoe bar in the middle. So far, so good. There are large leather chesterfields across the room, there is extravagant brass work around the eagle statues, there is a golden phone box on the right…hold on, this is no ordinary pub. Carry straight on and you have the rather sultry grill room with a small bar in the corner and a door at the end opening onto the terrace. We tried several morsels of what will be on their full menu and I have to admit the steak – especially smothered in whisky BBQ sauce – is very tasty. Other gems included new season asparagus wrapped in ham and mini steak tartar; emphasis is on fresh seasonal ingredients. Bar snacks are also comprehensive from olives to meat platters to burgers to market fish, starting at £2.50 and going up to £18 for steak.

And then the terrace. Ah, the Not To Be Missed terrace. There is one large area under a clear plastic roof covered over with plenty of greenery that also winds up the pillars, a bar in the corner and leather sofas everywhere you look. The smaller part is more high stools and wooden tables with a large umbrella for those fairer skinned drinkers.

(Ladies, the toilets are like the New York loft apartment that you dream of BUT no full length mirror, shocking considering the detail elsewhere!)

So to the drinks; the bar is incredibly well stocked and all cocktails come in at around £8. There was a restricted menu on for the launch night and extra staff were on hand to ensure service. So I will not judge too harshly the over eager addition of Crème de Violette in my Aviation, and although refreshing the gin based Mojito twist was a little simple and the apple flavours did not come through.

So weighing the good and the ever so slightly less good (including the walk to Clapham through a slightly dodgy industrial estate) I will be back; I hope that locals support it and next time you are looking for a space for a large group, especially as the sun becomes more permanent, The Lost Angel should be at the top of your list to call. 

Danger of Death, Hoxton: 17/20

Location: 202 Brick Lane, go into Full Stop Cafe and stairs are on the right hand side

Website: www.dangerlondon.com

Visit: Friday evening

To Notes: Open 6pm to 1am Wed to Sat and part of the Rushmore group so members only. Do try calling ahead though…

Scores

Ambiance 3/5

Design 5/5

Drinks 4/5

Staff 5/5

Extra LBC star: Not really…

First of all I should state that I went with a member and we called ahead but a little bit of charm may get you in if they are not busy. Which they were not.

So I love the interior, low ceilings, intimate little leather booths, large sixties charges that wrap you up round low tables – a mix of a little bit 30’s speak easy and a little bit 60’s mad men. The music was discreet but I remember thinking “cool” and the only down side is the rather strange toilet set up: one toilet but with urinals at the end. This means the whole place smells (the incense had gone out) and yet only one person can use it at a time, or two (male) friends!

 

The menu was well organised and chaptered into spirits for me it was too long – always quality over quantity. The bar man – Tamas – was more than happy to help us chose and made drinks proficiently and quickly with much cheek and charm. I wish I could tell you what I had, the second one was a red something…and the first one is defying my memory.

I would like like to return, but this is part of the Rushmore Group and people pay good money to be members so I will not hold my breath over an invitation…

Public House: Highbury and Islington 19/20

Location: Just 2 minutes walk from Highbury and Islington or 10 from Angel

Website: www.boutiquepubs.com/

Visit: Monday and Sunday evening

To Note: Got a speak easy vibe going on but it's hard to miss this gem

Scores

Ambience 4/5

Design 5/5

Drinks 5/5

Staff 5/5

Extra LBS Star: Mmm, 19/20 seems good enough

As I was adding up the scores here I realised that I really could not fault it. 

Zone 2 to the NORTH of London is not my usual hang out, ever, however the banter of Public House’s owner Simon on twitter and a picture of Kermit working behind the bar convinced me that this boutique gastro pub would be worth a foray to Highbury and Islington.

Although my friend and I were the only two in the bar at 6.30pm on a Monday, we were not complaining as we felt perfectly comfortable perched at the bar in the centre of the room for a catch up and a Petit Lapin and a Pendennis Club cocktail respectively. These were confidently made and tasted very good with a lovely balance of flavours, sweetness and sour. As the evening progressed, being a school night, I moved onto the beer list which had The Kernel IPA (a good sign, and even better that it was sold out!) and Brew Dog 5AM Saint amongst others with a well rounded selection of wines to boot; my friend investigated a sparkling wine and really enjoyed it, as well as the 1920’s coupe glass it came in. Drink suggestions on the Sunday were even better!

This was a theme of the pub/bar/restaurant – think Powder Keg Diplomacy if you are a South of the river kind of person – with an eclectic mix of leather couches and Louis XIV thrones at the front then medieval high backed chairs, sixties swivel seats and school tables at the back with chandeliers hanging everywhere, even the toilets! And the design really worked. The 20’s – dare I say it “prohibition” - era was also evoked with the music, which I rarely notice in bars but I loved the swingy jazz that they were treating us too.

On a Monday and a Tuesday you can indulge in 2 courses for £10 with no restrictions (like a supplement on steak etc). As some newly arrived friends joined us we took up a table in the back part of the vneue and were furnished with some tasty olives and water was attentively topped up. We all tried each other’s starters; though I think I won out with the sardines on toast and salad there was nothing left of either the lamb shoulder or the pulled pork when the plates were cleared. We all opted for fish as a main, one sea bream and two salmon with scallops. Both were beautifully cooked and the accompanying honeyed carrots went down a treat. Another clean plate round but we stopped short of dessert (the girls together effect?) and Frangelico shots were delivered from the bar instead – we were very flattered and it was a rather nice end to a rather nice evening! Sunday was a day for roasts with the classics (beef, pork and fish/veg too) with a Bloody Mary for £15

It has to be mentioned that the staff were outstanding. Our two barmen for the Monday evening were attentive, efficient servers who knew how to mix a drink. Lucy and Simon lifted the spirits on Sunday. It is all too rare that everything comes together in a boutique pub like it did at Public House.

We could not believe how cheap this evening worked out when the bill turned up and we are definitely going to return again; after all it is only two tube lines away…

Bunga Bunga, Battersea: 18/20*

Location:  37 Battersea Bridge Road   

Website: www.bungabunga-london.com 

Visit: Many Friday evenings, rarely sober

To Note? Downstairs is the restaurant and bar, upstairs is the nightclub. Big Rich the bouncer is awesome, the female hosts are less so. Look out for their brunch

Score

Ambiance 5/5

Design 5/5

Drinks 4/5

Staff 4/5

Extra LBS star: * for the sheer outrageousness 

Girls dressed like Gaddafi dancing on the bar on a Friday night. Then girls dressed in corsets dancing round the bar. I'm not sure why this surprised me in a place called Bunga Bunga. Perhaps its because on past visits the tables and chairs were removed at a certain time of night specifically to discourage table dancing...by the customers. 

Eurovision Room

So that gives you an idea of my past visits, mainly post dinner party alcohol fuelled trips upstairs to the "Eurovision" room to dance like the almost 30 year olds that we are; and we love it, especially as the kids have not yet ventured in. The crowd is rather post work suits but up for a laugh. 

So it came as a surprise that I was in Bunga Bunga, sober, on a Friday evening and browsing the cocktail menu. As our outrageously good looking barmen dressed as a gondalier approached we both presumed this man was hired for his "talent" rather than bar skills; how wrong I was. 

I declared that only whisky would do considering the day, week, month I had had and he pulled out a parma ham infused Woodford Reserve cocktail with lapsang souchong syrup; it was really good. My friend's B.A.N.G went down so well we went in for another round. I had a Regalo di Tersigni and my friend took the suggestion offered of an "Italian" job. Again, sticky glasses due to an overeager barman with icing sugar but well crafted. We were also provided with a small pot of very fine parmigiana to nibble on. 

Bunga Bunga ground floor

And perhaps most importantly in between all this we were moved to the end of the bar and treated to four dancing girls every 30 minutes dancing with progressively less clothes and come the end, small fireworks and accompanied by the waiting staff. Interesting. The closest my friend has ever come to a strip club. Frankly thoroughly recommended to lift the mood after a dreadful week at work because you help but smile at this tomfoolery even if the girls looked less than delighted!

(This is also a karaoke bar and a pizzeria which has a lot of praise for its food, toilets play Italian lessons, staff wear lewd aprons and your cocktail may come in Berlosconi's head, or the leaning tower of Pisa, or...you get the idea)

Presenting...The London Cocktail Club venues

The London Cocktail Club, perhaps you've been? They have "locations" at Covent Garden (6-7 Great Newport Street) Goodge Street (no 61) and New Oxford Street (224 Shaftsbury Ave).

I have been to two of these and both were great, as well as distinctly different. 

The first at New Oxford Street (and run by my friend Sarah) was buzzing even by 6.30pm. They also have a fabulous cocktail hour but with the caveat of having to have the same cocktail on the 2-4-1 we chose to go "a la carte" and I started with the Bacon Martini aka heaven in a glass. There were others but this was the most memorable. And did I mention the mugs of (free) tasty pop corn to accompany your drink?!

The design of the bar means that there is privacy to be had, with pillars to peer round and various bunkers to be booked, even finding the toilets is a challenge for the evening. The staff are friendly and more than happy to accomodate the roudy birthday groups with a smile.

Somewhat like the Covent Garden Cocktail Club that is downstairs and members only though this is bookable and free to join. Don't let the huge mirrors on the walls decieve you, this place is not big so hold onto your cocktail if standing near the bar. I am not sure that the skills behind the bar are the same standard as at New Oxford Street but the barmen are friendly, clearly enjoying themselves and fully behind the mid 90's disco soundtrack they were rocking on a Saturday night - total crowd pleaser. 

These places are a great antitode to the much maligned ECC (that I have not been to as risk of a bad evening). They are fun, unpretentious, skilled-at-cocktails bars where you will not leave without a smile on your face. Winner.

Zahra Bar, Clapham: 15/20

Location: The Pavement, Old Town

Website: www.zahrabar.co.uk

Visit: Thursday evening, for the jazz

To Note? This is the downstairs bar of Del'Aziz, entrance through the restaurant

Score

Ambiance 2/5

Design 5/5

Drinks 4/5

Staff 4/5

Extra LBS star: Not yet, but this bar is worth another viist


This visit had a rather inauspicious start. First we could not find the place, then we were told that the jazz did not actually start until 7.30 (despite booking a table for the jazz at 6.30) so we popped into Venn Street Records as a warm up (which was, by the way, awesome: great pizzas, great barmen, great music). 


We headed back at 8pm, and guess what? The jazz started at 8.30! We were the first downstairs but were soon joined by 2 large groups which were much needed to build the atmosphere. The room is great, with lots of space for dancing, seats all the way round, large tables for eating earlier in the evening and an middle eastern theme throughout.

Staff were also knowledgable, friendly and the drinks they made from an interesting menu were tasty and well priced at around 8 pounds a go. They also had a wide range of wines and beers, presumably this comes from the restaurant above. 


Unfortunately the jazz was not so good, a little bit "elevator music" for my tastes but despite their efforts no one seemed to be paying attention, they did not get the attention they deserved let alone the applause and soon gave up and got food! 


So after one drink we headed back to Venn St to carry on the party. 


Apparently the bar gets really busy on a Friday and Saturday and they are extending their entertainment with comedy and djs, so I would not write off straight away returning on a busier night.

Hawksmoor Spitalfelds - Downstairs 20/20

Location: Commercial Street

Website: http://www.thehawksmoor.co.uk/locations/spitalfields

Visit: Monday evening - soft launch

To Note? Restaurant upstairs bar downstairs

Score

Ambiance 5/5

Design 5/5

Drinks 5/5

Staff 5/5

Extra LBS star: It got 20/20 - it doesn't need it!

I am writing this from the point of view of someone who has never actually been to Hawksmoor before – and I LOVED it. We descended to what was previously a store room and entered through a heavy steel door to a sleek world of green leather banquettes, high tables and stools and aged mirrors to reflect the gentle candle light.

Although we were the only two in our area on arrival it soon filled up though the atmosphere remained intimate. Perhaps this was to do with the service. Now I know that although this was a “soft launch” this is not a brand new company or team however it was flawless throughout from the water on arrival to the waitress who was happy to explain the menu (and some of it needed explaining – Bermondsey Friar anyone?) finishing with the bar man who promised a “party in the mouth” with our last cocktail! I would genuinely like to thank the staff for being awesome at every point during the evening – and especially as we outstayed our time slot by 45 minutes. (Time slots are also only for the soft launch period.)

So, the cocktails. Their Ginger Brew which has been with them from the start was so fresh and full of flavour, the Old Fashioned blew my socks off and the Manila Julep was outstanding – even if under all that ice it disappeared very quickly. The prices vary wildly from £7.50 to £11 but it is good to know that each month the list will change and the Desert Island Drinks Section will feature five favourites from different barmen.

As for the food I had high expectations and really was not disappointed. Hawksmoor have pointed out this is a bar – there are no steaks here people! – but the single page of food offers more than enough choice. Starting with spiced up lamb in lettuce leaves, the cheeseburger was declared perfectly cooked, a chilli cheese hot dog hit the spot and accompanying triple cooked chips and coleslaw (which our waitress kindly agreed to request spiced up) were fabulous. And even better was all this left room to share a lemon meringue pie which had a perfectly thin crispy base, an oozing liquid centre and delightfully chewy meringue on top. Yum!

So three cocktails and plenty of food for two would come to (outside soft launch prices) around £70 including service which I really do not think is an issue for this quality of food and drink, this environment and for London full stop.

The crowd was mixed and will inevitably get some business from the nearby city institutes but like its upstairs restaurant it remains unpretentious and a really enjoyable place to spend an evening. I am already looking forward to the next visit – there is a chocolate malt cake with my name on it!