First Edition is a classy, casual, Italian-style wine bar in Canary Wharf.

The Venue
Overlooking Cabot Square - one of the many attractive public spaces dotted around Canary Wharf - First Edition is as pale as a cloud inside. White floors, white walls, pale wood furniture and a double-height room (with mezzanine seating) give a real illusion of space in what is essentially a small L-shaped room. The tiny bar is hidden in the corner with attractive, black-clad staff ferrying drinks about.

The Atmosphere
The atmosphere at First Edition is cool, calm and reserved - like a freshly laundered white shirt. However, there are a few wrinkles around the edges (such as scuffs on the floorboards) to soften the overly perfect effect.

The Food
French, English and Italian cheeseboards offer a tasty accoutrement to a bottle of wine. Priced at under £10 and big enough to share it will leave you with money for a drink. They offer a bar menu of finger foods or a more comprehensive menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Drink
First Edition is largely a wine bar. The sole draught beer (Warsteiner) attests to this. There are a few bottled beers but the star attraction is definitely the vino. One entire page of whites and a second page of reds, with a smattering of pinks and fizzies give you ample selection by the glass or bottle. There's no pretending it's inexpensive but their clientele don't seem to mind - they know that quality comes at a price.

The Last Word
First Edition is a great first date venue, providing a pleasant space to enjoy a bottle of wine and plate of cheese whilst you chat and get to know each other. Your outlay of cash isn’t too great but it’s sophisticated enough to make an effect. If the date is a dud, you’re close enough to the tube that you can head home early. If the date is going well, you can go for a walk along the water and sneak a first kiss by the Thames.

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