The Arches,
97-99 Isabella Street,
Southwark,
London,
SE1 8DA
(020) 7620 6191
The ViewLondon Review
A Turkish garden paradise within the urban hub that is Southwark, EV Bar is a serene spot to grab a drink and some delicious Anatolian-style bites.
The Venue
Nestled in the picturesque alley behind Southwark tube, decorated with potted plants and hanging baskets, EV Bar has transformed a former railway arch into a Turkish oasis. Christened with the Turkish word meaning home, EV Bar is certainly a welcome haven for those who choose to darken its doorstep or recline amongst the greenery on elegant wooden furniture.
Inside, leafy tendrils hang from the arched ceiling and cushioned stools crowd around stout wooden tables carved from tree trunks. The walls are lined with chunky wooden benches draped with Turkish rugs and stuffed cushions, whilst a bubbling fountain flows over the stone cobbled arches at the back of the bar. Essentially just one room, the furnishings and decorative embellishments alongside the high arched ceiling pull off an authentic yet polished look.
The Atmosphere
The bar sits adjacent to the EV Restaurant so there is nearly always a crowd of people milling around. Sunny days see the terrace filled with people popping in for lunch whilst in the evenings it can get quite packed with post-work drinkers spilling over from nearby offices.
During the day, it’s relaxing to recline on one of the benches inside with the babbling of the water fountain in the background - the space is airy and filled with light. At night, the ambience becomes moody and romantic. Although you are close to a major, teeming road, the alley is secluded, making you feel as if you’ve stumbled across a secret treasure.
The Food
The food is authentic Anatolian and Turkish, with fresh, piquant flavours and delicious aromas. Choose from cold or hot mezze from £3.95, like the moreish vegetarian Kisir (crushed walnuts, hazelnuts, bulgur wheat, tomato sauce, herbs, fresh mint, dill and spring onion) or various kofte, all served with fresh bread baked by hand in the EV deli next to the bar. Whilst the mezze are the perfect accompaniments for a boozy evening or lunchtime tipple, there are also grills, platters and sandwiches on offer from £5.25-£9.96. Considering how popular the adjoining deli and restaurant are, you can be rest assured you’re getting fresh food of the same great quality in the bar.
The Drink
With only Carlsberg and Guinness on tap, it’s best to turn your attention to a large selection of bottled beers including the usual suspects as well as the more unique Old Speckled Hen and the Turkish Pilsner Efes. They’ve also got the pear cider St Helier and a varied wine list from £3.30 a glass. Testament to the fact that EV Bar is also a place to party is their cocktail and shooter menu, including the special Breeze cocktail sold by the glass or jug. It’s a potent, fruity mix of cognac and Bacardi with organic pomegranate and apple juice, cranberry juice, fresh mint, lemon and lime.
The Last Word
A great addition to this corner of Southwark that overflows with bars and restaurants, EV Bar is ideal for just one drink or whiling away an entire evening. A Turkish delight.
EV Bar has been reviewed by 1 users