You may have passed by The Last hundreds of times without ever bothering to go in; however, despite its inconspicuous facade, inside holds a wealth of delights.

The Venue
The Last is a lavishly elegant surprise that will make you wonder why you have never heard of it before. In the afternoon, you could easily stroll past, believing that it’s closed.

Upon entering, opposite the main entrance door you’ll spy the food counter, which is cleared out of eating hours. The rest of the venue offers a modern slant on the all-wood decor, including a raised platform with an extra large booth. Everything is contemporary and fashionable, from the lighting in polished metal to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The only nod to the contemporary retro trend is a wall displaying a damask pattern on tiles. There is also an airy courtyard at the back where you can enjoy a cigarette in total tranquillity without the noise of cars.

The Atmosphere
Due to the lack of smokers on the street, The Last appears quiet from the outside but the atmosphere within is actually surprisingly bubbly. Filled with chatter and laughter, this bar has a dynamic ambience generated partly by the good looks of the venue itself and partly by its customers - the party people of The City definitely like this place.

The Food
For lunch customers can order from a full menu including fresh fish bought daily from the market and elaborate mains (£9-£12) like wild boar ravioli with wild mushrooms and braised wild rabbit with roast garlic mash. Other options include salads (£9-£12), hot sandwiches (£7.50-£9.50) and starters or sharers (£4.50-£6) like black fig and Parma ham with feta cheese or baked goat cheese with silver skin onions. Not only are the ingredients fresh and the menu strictly seasonal but everything also gets made from scratch on the day.

After 4pm you can order from a selection of sharers (£4.50-£7.50), nibbles (£2.50-£4) and a few mains (£5.50-£11.50). Options include wild mushroom fritters, polenta chips, char grilled squid, creole potato wedges and walnut and gorgonzola tortelloni.

The Drink
Wine is the more popular choice here but if you cannot do without a cocktail there is a selection of classics (£6.50-£8) and shooters (£4).

There are three Champagnes available by the glass (£5.80-£10.70) and six by the bottle - things start off cheap with the Baron De Beaupre (£32) but escalate quickly to the £200 Cristal and Krug Grand Cuvee. The wine list counts 16 whites, 12 reds and 3 roses, and there is something to satisfy all palates. Wine is grouped by dryness and body and there is a particularly large selection of Sauvignons and Merlots. Bottles are priced at £14.50-£30.

The Last Word
Until now, The Last was a well kept secret. It’s certainly a great spot to discover with its friendly atmosphere, stylish decor, strong drink selection and gourmet food.

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