There’s something to be said for small bars that draw in a regular crowd and are able to captivate newcomers. The types with a vibe so memorable, you’re welcomed by your first name and asked if you’d like your regular drink of the evening or would like to try a new creation. The Gibson staffs a small but mighty team along the buzzing Old Street heading towards Clerkenwell and Farringdon in London. Swing open the doors to uncover an Edwardian themed bar with nods to the vintage glamor style of the ‘20s and ‘30s—the era from which their signature cocktail was born.
Cocktails are the main attraction here. The extensive list features some really unique and palate challenging options. Upon first glance, the bartenders might seem to be popping out works of fine art rather than something made to be sipped. No detail is left out; from extravagant garnishes to carefully paired flavour profiles to unusual glassware. Their menu is sorted by season with the signature The Gibson Martini (featuring a pickled onion rather than an olive) and its variations listed first. To use the menu, simply choose the season that invites you then choose a month within that season, from there you’ll find a list of cocktails meant to transport you to a destination of your mind’s choosing. Maybe you select your birthday month or the time you met your significant other, either way The Gibson ensures an interactive experience for all.
Oak moss. Balsamic seaweed. Lobster broth. Japanese rose sweet brine. Peking duck fat wash. You may raise an eyebrow at some of the ingredients listed on the menu. The Gibson team ensures you won’t be disappointed; rather you’ll be enlightened to the wondrous world of flavours available out there. Not many may dare to mix, create, and offer such elaborate concoctions but at The Gibson they find normality in the weird. The final results speak for themselves, The Gibson constantly sees itself raved about by all its patrons and reviewers.
Of course, The Gibson stocks many other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well. Discuss your own cocktail vision with your bartender or opt for wine, champagne, or beer instead. They won’t be offended if you stick with your tried and true.
As you can imagine, with a roster of 50+ drinks such as these, the tiny space is quickly filled. Yet, at The Gibson people don’t seem to mind the lack of personal space. While the bar fits about 40 comfortably, you’ll see more willingly trying to shimmy their way into this magical time capsule. The thrill of the experience is all, in part, thanks to The Gibson’s eagerness and enthusiasm to step outside the comfort zone of the everyday view of cocktails. They may as well be serving entrancing potions because you sure will be hooked and back for more. After all, it’s impossible to try everything on the menu in one evening.
Address: 44 Old Street, London EC1V 9AQ
Phone: +44 20 7608 2774
