Recreating the wild excitement of the Prohibition era, this brand new bar is seductive yet classy.

The Venue
Tucked away in St Katharine Docks, Prohibition is surrounded by glass so passers by get a glimpse of the alluring interior and those sat inside can gaze out over the river Thames, thanks to its waterfront locale. Chocolate brown covers the floors and most of the furniture, creating a sophisticated mood, but a few dashes of red lighting and crystallised light fixtures add a sense of drama and glamour. The bar stretches along the main wall allowing plenty of room for parched customers to purchase their drinks, yet a large crowd still tends to form. Seats are abundant, with stools surrounding high tables and also larger booths for a more private feel. A section of the seating is slightly cut off from the buzz of the bar, creating a quiet area for those who want to just sip their cocktails in peace.

The Atmosphere
With a clientele mostly consisting of people from The City, the air at Prohibition is charged with a lively intensity as people laugh, chat and mingle together. Though the age varies vastly, which at times creates an odd atmosphere, the crowd are there to have a good time. The friendly bar staff add to the fun with their amusing banter with each other and their audience. The music is an eclectic mix of indie, jazz and dance, and effortlessly builds up an enticing feel. Dark lighting draws out the mischievousness of the customers and the staff, so expect the unexpected. However, the wait at the bar can become rather hectic as service can be slow due to the volume of orders.

The Drink
You’re spoilt for choice at Prohibition with the long list of available cocktails, including 10 martinis, 14 fruity cocktails and 15 signature cocktails. And that’s just the start of it. Prices range from £2.50 for shooters £6.95 for champagne cocktails, and all of the spirits and other ingredients are of a very high quality. The elegant Basil Grande is one of the signature cocktails that pleasantly blends basil, strawberry, Chambord and Grand Marnier to produce a delicately flavoured drink that’s unique and delicious. The bar staff proudly claim that their Espressotini is the best in town, and the sweet coffee delight definitely delivers. There’s also a wide selection of wines, from £12.50 to £35 a bottle as well as the usual popular draughts such as Fosters and Kronenberg 1664. In addition, imported bottled beers as far reaching as Peru and China are available.

The Last Word
Prohibition conjures up images of decadent, irresistible parties being had behind closed doors - this bar certainly lives up to that idea.

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