This Smithfield Market bar is perfect for both after-work drinks and pre-clubbing cocktails.

The Venue
Situated on a corner spot, in the heart of Smithfield Market, this bar can’t be missed. With large New York-style windows that run down either side of the bar, simple modern furnishings, including lamps that hang down low on metal chains, the venue almost has a warehouse feel to it. Head upstairs via a spiral staircase that’s covered in lights and you’re in a space that’s commonly used for functions or special events. Again, the decor is simple yet stylish. In addition, there are a few tables located down the side of the bar that runs along a quiet street.

The Atmosphere
During the week, the bar attracts a suited clientele, who work in the nearby business district, while at the weekend, you can expect to find young twenty and thirtysomethings enjoying a drink before they head to nearby Fabric. The bar alters the soundtrack accordingly – more often than not taking requests from punters. At the weekend, there’s a few different club nights which host events at the venue – these include everything from 80s disco nights to trance and everything in between. Staff are friendly and often seem as if they’re having as much fun as those visiting the bar.

The Food
The venue offers a simple menu of popular favourites that will please all. There are plenty of snacky bits (from around £3) and evening platters (£14.95), as well as main courses, too. A tasty dish to share with drinks is the Mediterranean selection (£5.50). The platter includes large chunky of crumbly feta, fresh-tasting olives, flavoursome marinated peppers and large falafel balls.

For a more substantial dish, the marinated chicken skewers (£8.50) are delicious. The tender chunks of slightly peppery meat perfectly complement the pepper slices on the skewers, while the pitta and tzatziki bulk the dish out. Beware of the pot of chilli sauce and the salad (which has a sprinkling of fresh chillis) – both will challenge those with a sensitive palate. Similarly, the Charterhouse haloumi salad (£8.50) is a great pick. Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a small dish – the slab of squeaky and not-too-salty cheese is huge, while the mixed salad of cucumber, cherry tomatoes, onions and gherkins works really well and is nicely topped by the balsamic dressing with a hint of pesto. If you’re after dessert, they’re all priced £3.95 and the selection varies from day to day.

The Drink
There’s a huge focus on cocktails, and staff are properly trained. Drinks aren’t cheap, but are a standard price for the area. If you’re after a classic cocktail, the bar makes one of the best mojitos in the area (costing around £7.50) – made with rum, fresh mint, fresh lime and sugar syrup, it’s the perfect mix of sweet and sharp. If it’s wine you’re after, the list is pretty reasonable – the Alto Plano Merlot is a rich yet fruity red wine that goes with most of the dishes on the menu and won’t break the bank at £15.95 a bottle. There’s a basic list of beer and cider that includes Sol, Peroni, Bud and Rekorderling.

The Last Word
With super-friendly staff and better than average food and drink, this stylish spot is a winner.

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