A banal upmarket bar? Don’t be fooled, Grand Union is so much more, with a top-class burger menu, terrific cocktails and great DJs. The added bonus is you don’t need to drag yourself to Central London to enjoy it.

The Venue
Cosy and sultry, Grand Union has a retro vibe with a contemporary edge: the place is kitted out with dark woods, chocolate paint and different vintage wallpapers, complemented by old fashioned grandma lampshades diffusing red light, a mix of electic furniture, old leather couches, candles on each table and dimmed lighting past 8pm. There is also a miniature football table to keep you entertained whilst waiting for your food and a heated patio furnished with a ribbon bench going all around, making socialising easy.

The Atmosphere
There is a distinct Central London feel to Grand Union. It's more upmarket than many places in Twickenham, which is why it appeals to locals who don’t want to trek for miles to find a decent bar. The regulars are in the 25-40 age group, mostly from the area, dropping in for a burger and sticking around to watch football during the week or to take in the party vibe courtesy of the DJs at the weekend.

Another big plus is Grand Union is open until late – 2.30am Fridays and Saturdays and 1am Thursdays. Be aware, however, it may not be easy to get in after about 11pm, especially when they hold their monthly late night party (open until 4.30am). Entry is strictly over-21 and there is a guestlist in operation during the weekend. Get in before 10am to avoid the £3 entrance fee, which you won’t want to pay given there’s no dancefloor (although the DJs still get you moving with their collection of upbeat tunes).

The Food
Can fancy cocktails co-exist reasonably with something as down-to-earth as burgers? It may look like an improbable match but the menu at Grand Union works, especially since their burgers (£5.25-£7.65) are almost as elaborate as the cocktails.

Well presented and made with quality ingredients, there are no less than eight beefburgers to choose from. This includes the new Fire Earth burger, which will blow your head off thanks to hot chillis, peppered cheese, sliced jalapenos, beef tomato and a secret spicy sauce. For a taste of the exotic, choose between the tasty Greek Lamb Burger (seasoned lamb patty, cucumber raita, hummus, tomato and lettuce), or the Orient Burger (pork patty, spare rib sauce, spring onions, relish). Chicken and fish lovers aren’t left wanting, with a chicken and camembert burger or a breaded fish patty, whilst vegetarians are given four options including a falafel burger.

It’s highly recommended you order your burger with chips: cooked to perfection, light and with just enough oil to make them melt in the mouth. Avoiding carbs? Go for a breadless burger (£5.25-£7): chicken and goats cheese, beef or a veggie stack. The latter is tasty and the vegetables are perfectly cooked but be aware that it is too rich in oil to prevent minor weight gain! Opting for a salad (£4-£7) is a better idea if you are scared of packing on the pounds: the tuna and red bean salad is lean and fulfilling while the falafel salad is rich in protein.

The Drink
Grand Union has an excellent cocktail selection. Their list includes all the classics (£6.50-£9) - try a martini or vodka martini and choose your own spirit. Alternatively, check out their selection of Champagne cocktails (£8.50-£9.50), contemporary cocktails (£7.50-£8.50) and luxury mixes made with such spirits as Hennessy Cognac (£9-£12.50). The classics are all well made but you should sample their own inventions like the Almond Trance (pomegranate liqueur, Kwai feh, Amaretto, Hypnotiq, apple juice), Elmo’s Eclipse (Jack Daniels, Chambord, cranberry juice, fresh raspberries, sugar) or the star-studded Fresh Prince (a fresh hibiscus flower soaked in juices, Grey Goose Vodka and Moet NV Champagne).

Shots (£3.70) are also on the menu with choices that include the Slippery Nipple and Nuttella, or try the Shaken Shots (£12-£14 for four) like Purple Hooter (Vodka, lime, Chambord), Shaking Orgasm (Amaretto, Baileys, Kahlua) and a couple of others. A decent selection of wine, Champagne and a few beers complete a menu that will appeal to all.

The Last Word
Twickenham locals, forget the trip to Soho and enjoy yourself comfortably at Grand Union with a delicious burger, a strong cocktail and a thriving party atmosphere.

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