18 Greek Street,
Soho,
London,
W1D 4DS
(020) 7287 2051
The ViewLondon Review
Zebrano at the Establishment is a good choice if you are looking for light-hearted fun: a fussy door, attitude from the staff and excessive grooming are not to be found here. This bar’s friendly and approachable face is one of the reasons behind its continued success.
The Venue
Zebrano at the Establishment is spread over three floors on the busy Greek Street. Each is dominated by a strong colour with a recurring floral pattern: bright red for the ground floor bar; hen-night pink for the basement (private events only); brown for the classy first floor balcony, which is by far the best area. The venue mixes period fixtures with the clean lines of contemporary furniture; the end result is slightly incongruous but you are not likely to notice the details in the dim lights.
The Atmosphere
Zebrano is a popular bar throughout the week. Most people seem to drop-in on the spur of the moment and you will spot local workers, businessmen and clusters of tourists. The atmosphere is dominated by the music, which is on the loud side: the selection of commercial and chart tunes is pleasant enough, but holding a conversation isn’t easy.
Finally, speak to the delightful staff and you will hear tales of The Establishment, the name of the club in the 60s. Owned by Peter Cook, this is where, as legend would have it, Monroe and President Kennedy had a fling. Unconfirmed as it is, the historical aura definitely adds to Zebrano’s contemporary edge.
The Food
The menu is streamlined but effective. Sharing tapas are available individually (£2.50-£6.50) or as well-presented sharing platters (£12-£13.50), which are ideal for one person as a meal or good to nibble on in a group. Try the Zebrano tapas platter: warm mini tortillas come served with guacamole, salsa, sour cream and mixed salad. Additionally, you get to choose from a great selection of meat and vegetable dishes. The shredded BBQ belly pork is recommended, while the mint and chilli lamb is really nice. Other items on the menu are worth trying: the mini spring rolls are really good, with a delicious ginger filling, while the unsalted wedges are cooked very well. Desserts are indulgent and the banoffee pie is particularly good.
The Drink
Zebrano has a well-structured drink list. There are sufficient beers (£3.85-£4), bottles of champagne (£40-£195), spirits (50ml with mixer is around £6.75) and affordable wine (£4-£5 per glass or £15.50-£28.50 per bottle) to keep everyone happy. And the cocktails (£7.50-£8.50) are in demand. Their specialties are the fruity Lychee Gunman (vanilla vodka, Passoa, lychee juice, apple juice, passion fruit, lime juice and syrup) and Latin Corruption (vodka, Chambord, crème de fraise, Lichi Li liquer, raspberry and strawberry puree, cranberry and lime juice), but almost any long or short drink, martini, champagne cocktail and shooter (£6 or a set of six for £24) is rightfully popular.
The Last Word
Zebrano at the Establishment is an honest party bar without any attitude or airs and graces. Such a relaxed attitude is rare in London, let alone Soho, and this is very much their best asset.
Zebrano at the Establishment has been reviewed by 26 users