Bar Douro

Picture this: It’s a rainy Sunday afternoon and you are in search of the perfect place for an end-of-week treat that won’t break the bank. We have the perfect place for you! Tucked away in the Southwark Quarter by London Bridge is Bar Douro; a Portuguese bar and restaurant. The restaurant is small, intimate and cosy - ideal for rainy days sipping on a glass of red. There is also an outdoor terrace, which is great in the summer.

The menu has various traditional Portuguese tapas divided into 4 sections: snacks, garden, sea and land. These dishes are meant for sharing and the waitress recommended two to three plates per person. What we loved was that she also gave her recommendations based on what reminded her of home - a great personal touch! There is quite a wide price range, from £5 to £17, so you can choose how much you want to splurge on food. Our favourite dishes were the mushroom pie (a new addition to the menu) and the croquetes de alheira.

Now onto the exciting part - the wine. The extensive cellar list is filled with Portuguese wines organised by colour and then by region. This can naturally be confusing if you are not familiar with Portuguese wine regions, so a handy map is included, which also explains the key characteristics of the grapes. What filled us with even more excitement is that on Sundays, Bar Douro has a selection of wines sold at cellar prices (what they are calling “Festa Sundays”). We tried the Domino Foxtrot 2020, a beautiful light red from the Alentejo region for only £20. This wine was a light-bodied, easy drinking red, with notes of ripe red fruits, and went well with the wide variety of dishes we tried. 

Bar Douro is ideal for: Date night, or dinner with a friend. Due to the smaller space, we wouldn’t recommend large groups (4+)

Ambience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Range: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Overall: 9/10

To see more reviews, click here!

Words by Hannah van Houweninge.

Christina’s Shoreditch

In the heart of Shoreditch is Christina’s; a luxurious bar on the ground floor of the Mondrian Hotel and with their new cocktail menu, it should be at the top of your “to visit” list!

The bar itself is beautifully decorated and on opening the menu, it’s sure to be love at first sight. The new selection of drinks has been curated by the head bartender, Kevin Price Houghton, and focuses on using smaller producers, most of which are UK based. Kevin has also worked with less traditional ingredients such as alexander seed and rosehip. His goal was to make these unusual ingredients more ‘relatable’ by using them in classic cocktails.

The perfect example of this is the Hogweed Martini; a beautifully smooth cocktail, with the added twist of the hogweed, as well as a pickled radish garnish. If you are in the mood for something slightly sweeter though, the Rosehip Cosmo is also a great choice; especially as it has a tangier fruitiness compared to the ‘normal’ cosmo we are all used to. The cocktails range from £13-£15, so they’re slightly on the pricier side, but worth every penny for their flair and character.

The menu also has a great selection of mocktails (£10 each) for anyone who wants to enjoy something delicious without the alcohol buzz. If you’re in the mood for something warmer though, they offer a large array of coffees, lattes, and teas. The tea company used, Nemi teas is also based locally in London. 

Once drinks are ordered, you might be feeling a bit peckish and Christina’s has various artisanal toasted sandwiches and nibbles to choose from. Prices range from £4-£10 and for any fellow vegetarians out there, the Korean Fried Cauliflower (KFC) is mouth-wateringly delicious!

The bar is calmer during the day and can be used for working lunches if you need to get out of your WFH office set-up. Then from around 6pm onwards, it starts filling up, and the music picks up the pace. Currently, on Thursdays and Fridays, there is also a DJ that starts his/her set at 8:30 pm. What more could you ask for in a bar? It covers all bases.

Christina’s is ideal for: Girl’s night, anniversaries, dates and after work drinks.

Ambience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value:  ⭐⭐⭐
Range:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Overall: 9/10

Words by Hannah van Houweninge

The Best Cocktail Terraces in London

The sun is (finally) coming out and summer cocktail terraces are starting to bloom. Whether you like your alfresco drinks skyscraping and swish, or garden-fringed and intimate, grab your sunnies, gather your mates and book off the afternoon. We’re heading out for cocktails at these must-visit London terraces.  

Bingham Riverhouse

*Technically* this is in Surrey – elegant Richmond, to be exact – but this terrace is definitely worth the extra few minutes on the District Line. An extension of Bingham’s chic (and utterly delicious) restaurant from MasterChef-winning chef Steven Edwards, the intimate strip looks out to lawns and the River Thames, so you can watch boats slink past as you sip. Order a Jalapeno’s Negroni – the perfect smoky-spicy blend of mezcal, Cocchi red vermouth and jalapeño-infused Campari – then follow up with a Laurent Perrier-topped Blackberry Royal, made with the Bingham garden’s rosemary. There’s no need to wobble home after; Bingham’s elegant hotel rooms, with copper baths and sustainable La-Eva toiletries, are dreamy crash pads. Rise for morning bellinis and hangover-busting aromatherapy massages at Bhuti spa.

Book Here 

Native at Brown’s

If you’re seeking a full-on garden terrace vibe, you could do far worse than this central London restaurant. Coddled by rows of lush ferns, and towering trees, if feels the perfect spot to sip a cocktail bursting with foraged flavours – exactly what Native majors in. In a spin on a classic Amaretto Sour, the Meadowsweet Sour uses foraged meadowsweet flowers. The Seasonal Spritz, meanwhile, comes with a dash of zingy sea buckthorn. Cocktails are shaken up with sustainability in mind, too. The espresso martini is made with waste coffee grounds, as well as locally sourced East London Liquor Co vodka.

Book Here 

Fortnum & Mason Royal Exchange, Bank

As we’ve all been pushed outdoors by pandemic dining, some amazing drinking spaces have popped up as a result, including this previously underused patch of pavement outside the Royal Exchange. Sandwiched spectacularly between Cornhill and Threadneedle Street, the terrace at Fortnum & Mason Royal Exchange lets you take in the epic, chiselled panoramas of Bank – a quintessential London scene – over a dry martini or, if you prefer something lighter, a glass of pink Fortnum’s own fizz. Visit in late afternoon, when it’s washed in sunshine, and you won’t want to budge until closing time at 11pm.

Book Here

Hicce

Set on the vast open space by Coal Drop’s Yard, just off Regent’s Canal, Hicce is the pick for when you want a big buzzy terrace vibe, but top-quality drinks too. Book in with a bunch of friends, grab a seat in the sun, and work through the innovative list: Matchagras (shiso leaf-infused Tanqueray, matcha, lemongrass and aquafaba); Hibilep (pandan leaf-infused Bulleit bourbon with hibiscus and pomegranate); Beetarita (mezcal, cherry liqueur, lime, beetroot juice). There’s a brilliant wine selection for your crowd to tackle too, with a raft of skin-contact whites and low-intervention reds.

Book Here

Nest, Treehouse London

If you’re anything like us, after braving the throngs of Oxford Street you’ll be in serious need of a drink. Enter Nest: a skyscraping bar just a few minutes’ walk away, perched at the top of Treehouse hotel, with views sweeping across the capital. Drop your shopping bags and order a Botanical Sour – gin, elderflower, coriander, vermouth and citrus – or a Bee Sting (Calvados, Beesou, honey, banana and citrus). Some time slots incur a minimum spend, so be sure to choose an hour that suits you budget. And, when booking, ask for a comfy sofa seat on the west side – the sun floods it in the afternoons.

Book Here

If you’re feeling more in the mood for a picnic then check out our delicious canned wines and no and low drinks recommendations!

The Gibson

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

108 Brasserie

The chic residential area of Marylebone hides away a delicious secret. 108 Brasserie is located just off Marylebone High Street at the top of Marylebone Lane. Aiming to bring the Marylebone neighbourhood some hearty yet uncomplicated food combinations, 108 Brasserie serves dishes for all three meals in a tranquil environment meant to spark culinary creativity. This hip space features two distinguished seating areas: the bar and the dining room.

The bar presents a flavorful and extensive drink menu coupled with small plate offerings. Whether wine, cocktails, or beer strikes your tipple fancy, you’re sure to have plenty to choose from. Plus, those looking for non-alcoholic alternatives without sacrificing taste or quality should check out the Juicery menu for enriching and nutritious freshly juiced blends. 

Using their spirits knowledge, 108 Brasserie crafted their very own gin aptly called 108 Gin. It is distilled in-house and endearingly nicknamed “Isabella” by the staff. Guests can engage with the distillation process, ask questions, and even sample a taste neat or in a cocktail. The gin is rich in bright, light botanicals with a smooth, simple finish.  Take a bottle for the road to relive your time here. 108 Brasserie sure does seem to have it all. 

For the full dining experience, ask to be seated in the Brasserie. Here, you’ll discover a menu filled with seasonal, modern British and international dishes created with the freshest ingredients on the market. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and/or dessert. From eggs benedict three ways to intricate fish-focused plates to decadent chocolate indulgences, 108 Brasserie can cater to your hunger and cravings without a second thought.

Reservations are of course encouraged, though 108 Brasserie will do their best to seat every pop in. 108 Brasserie has brought to life a friendly, relaxing atmosphere for everyday gatherings around food and drinks. Just remember to ask for Isabella by name.

Address: 108 Marylebone Lane, London W1U 2QE
Telephone: +44 207 969 3900

The Finest Rum in Cuba

There is no finer place to drink rum than Havana, Cuba’s splendid capital. Whether you want to try it, buy it or learn more about it, Colin has found you the best places to do so.

Super Lyan

It’s a bird. It’s a plane. No, it’s Super Lyan! This masterpiece of a cocktail bar and garden will inevitably leave you speechless upon passing through its doors. The neon luminescence sits as the main beacon of fun while the well-dressed staff moves through the scene flawlessly, delivering delightful dishes and drinks alike to eager patrons.  

Housed within the Kimpton de Witt, a tastefully renovated 17th century Dutch house turned hotel, Super Lyan blends in seamlessly with the surrounding Central Amsterdam vibes and architecture. After stepping foot inside, the electric atmosphere will light you to the core. Open practically all-day everyday, anyone and everyone is welcome to stop in for coffee and vegan doughnuts to start the morning, smaller bites to survive the afternoon, and a variety of evening beverages to encourage a late night. Or, stay all day if you fancy.

Of course, Super Lyan didn’t just become super on its own. The man behind the curtain is none other than world-renowned cocktail mixologist Ryan Chetitawardana (aka Mr Lyan). While most of Ryan’s endeavors have been limited to the United Kingdom boundaries, Super Lyan is breaking those barriers by becoming Ryan’s first international bid and, to no surprise, is a major success. You may be most familiar with Ryan’s Dandelyan, which received the World’s Best Bar two consecutive years until its abrupt and unexpected closure. Ryan sure knows how to keep his followers, fans, and friends on their toes and coming back for more.

The Mr Lyan empire is extremely happy to place some roots in Amsterdam, though Ryan himself cannot be there everyday. He’s a busy man, naturally, trying to oversee his other London-based bars. As such, Super Lyan has been left in the day-to-day hands and management of Thomas Datema and Alex Lawrence. Thomas is a well-respected face among the Amsterdam cocktail scene, while Alex served as the former head bartender at Dandelyan. Using both the local Dutch culture and their previous experiences, the duo crafted a sophisticated yet quirky cocktail list worth every sip.

Whether guest at the Kimpton de Witt or Palace Quarter district resident, Super Lyan is a whimsical experience to say the least. Your taste buds may flutter. Your palate may sing. But, you’re guaranteed to explore pairing boundaries you’ve never considered. There are meat, vegetarian, and vegan options and everything is prepared fresh to order.  The real highlight unsurprisingly is the extensive drink menu. Bubbles, citrus, and sours all make an appearance. Fruits, florals, and other naturally derived ingredients add an undeniably fresh, crisp flavor. Enjoy a sprinkling of sage dust or a dollop of orange blossom honey. 

Super Lyan has whipped up an impressive, well-rounded spread. All you have to do is find yourself in Amsterdam and stop in. They’re open 7AM until late. For private reservations, look into booking the Super Lyan Living Room and try your hand at cocktail crafting during a Super Lyan Workshop. Timeless, tasteful, and tactfully brought to life, Ryan has truly outdone himself on this one.

Drink: A new cocktail book by Kurt Maitland

Photo: Bobby Childs

There are myriad cocktail books, past and new. Most of them are pretty good, but there is one which stands out beyond the others as the most comprehensive book on cocktails anyone could need. It is not only informative, but is lovely to look at, easy to read and manages to treat the reader with enough respect as not to be condescending, but also giving the beginner all the knowledge they might need to start the cocktail journey.

There are cocktail books with more recipes, but there are more than 800 in Drink, which is plenty enough for all but the geekiest of cocktail fiends - and it’s a book I would suggest they would still want on their shelves.

Drink takes a look at everything from ancient fermented liquids from all over the world and throughout different periods in history, giving a thorough background to the world of alcohol and mixing.

Colin and Kurt at Copper Oak NYC

With cocktail and mocktails, there is something here for every palate, whether you have a sweet or sour tooth, love experimenting, sticking to the classics, or don’t even want alcohol, Drink will have a cocktail to suit you.

One of the strengths of this book is there are cocktails which can be easily made at home with minimal ingredients and little skill needed. Beyond this, there are cocktails which are designed to take no time at all, or are easy to mix in bulk for parties (or even single drinks), which are quick to make for a few guests.

There are too many examples to list, and I’m not going to impose my likes and favourites on you. Simply buy the book and try them for yourself. The cocktail journey is exciting and all the more fun if it’s your own.

 By Colin Hampden-White