Westminster gets some cocktail class
WITH half of London on holiday there aren’t many launches right now, but there are a few noteworthy openings that warrant investigation.
First up, Roux at the Pembury. Located in master chef Michel Roux’s Roux at Parliament Square restaurant in Westminster, this beautifully refurbished bar offers MPs and punters alike a classy conceptual cocktail menu ideal for whiling away an afternoon or evening. The “tasting” cocktail menu is divided into Hors d’oeuvres, Plats principaux and Déserts – progress from one end to another for a well-balanced liquid diet. Standout starters, mains and puddings include the Three Citrus Ricky (Ketel One citreon, Fino sherry, yuzu, lemon, pineapple, soda), the Penultimate Word (Don Julio Blanco, green chartreuse, Talisker, coridander, lime) and the Berry Stinger (port, crème de framboise, crème de cassis, mint). For edible sustenance, there’s a nibbles-paired cocktail flight menu in the works.
Over in Bethnal Green, Bistroteque has collaborated with famed East End designers House of Hackney to create a maximalist Gin Den more awe-inspiring than austere. From the trippy surrealism of the Victorian-style wallpaper and lamps to the handsome dark woods, the venue is a sumptuous enclave ripe for debauchery.
If you happen to be on the other side of the capital there’s a members’ club opening that ticks all the boxes. Situated above Brasa on Fulham Broadway, Broadway House will offer discerning Fulhamites a member club treatment more often found in the West End. The club will be comprised of twin terraces, a cocktail bar, restaurant, barbecue-equipped rooftop bar, an array of private function rooms and even an outdoor cinema.
Speaking of cinema, catch the summer outdoor pop-ups when you can. Queen of Hoxton’s Rooftop Film Club has proved to be one of the most popular cinematic destinations, while Hackney hipsters have been flocking to Folly for a Flyover to watch a screen under the A12 underpass over Lea Navigation Canal. Alternatively, Floating Cinema shows films on a canal boat itself.
Tim Badham is the founder of Innerplace, London’s leading providers of VIP entertainment, including film premieres, fashion shows, launch parties and members club access. www.innerplace.co.uk