On Tuesday, I was among a number of the London Cocktail Society #lcs contingency to get a sneak preview of the new Zetter Townhouse cocktail bar.
I was instantly attracted on two counts:
1. I’d heard the fantabulous guys behind 69 Colebrooke Row are the brains behind the bar, and
2. it is literally a hop, skip and a jump from the office.
Located in a stunning townhouse off St John’s Square in Clerkenwell, with a carefully maintained exterior and discrete pale blue door, Zetter Townhouse is a real treat.
The designer behind the decor is Russell Sage and the cosy rooms, have the feel of grand aunt’s living room, packed full of eclectic pieces from her travels. Expect big old bookshelves, antique candlesticks and stuffed kangaroos.
Despite having high expectations given my 69 Colebrooke Row experiences, the cocktails did not disappoint.
First up was the Köln Martini – it had been a hard day after all. This stiff drink, made with Beefeater Gin, was served with a separate medicine bottle of a potent citrus aromatic, with patrons encouraged to add the drop of aromatic in themselves to finish the cocktail. I’d possibly added a little more than a drop in my eagerness but it tasted pure, fresh and with a little tang.
Next up, I ordered the Masters of Arms, a truly fab concoction of Myers rum, port evaporation and homemade grenadine. This is serious drink with just the right balance of concentrated fruit and kick, with a touch of sweetness.
I was also lucky enough to try a sip or two of the The Richmond, which my husband would adore – 12 yr old Chivas Regal, apple honey and Lillet Blanc – a divine combination of warming whisky, ripe apple and bitters with a delicate honey finish.
I ordered a little bite to nibble on in between cocktails and after much deliberation decided on the spicy and zesty, marinated grilled halloumi and some bread to enjoy with the decidedly moreish pâté.
The service was friendly, knowledgeable and attentive – the decor, sumptuous and exciting – with lots of little touches to reward the eye, like this lovely lampshade, which is hung from the centre of framed piece of art.
I poked my head in the games room before I left and saw a gang of fellow cocktail buddies enjoying game of ping pong, I have yet to see one of the 13 bedrooms, but if the decor is anything like the main bar or private dining rooms they will be a delight.
Zetter Townhouse is one of my new favourite cocktail bars, hope to visit again very soon…
