Behind a nondescript, gold-knobbed door just north of the Old Street roundabout is this bona fide speakeasy, pouring award-winning libations from a four-section menu that delineates the evolution of the cocktail. Leather banquettes, brick-walled booths and art deco liquor cabinets stocked with vintage spirits set the perfect scene for jazz and blues acts that take the stage nightly at 9.30pm.
With an extensive spirits list, you can bet on a concoction for all tastes – and if nothing on the menu appeals, expert mixologists will whip up whatever suits you. The overproof, tiki-inspired 'barrel-aged zombie', featuring four types of rum, absinthe, brandy, fresh pineapple juice and a booze-soaked cake-slice garnish, will send you stumbling out the door in one round – but Asian street food, served until 11pm, should help soak it all up. Service is seated only, so dress smart and book in advance.
