Behind the bar - House Of Coco Magazine

Barbados April 5, 2021

10 Top Tipples for Spring Picnics

With last week’s freak heatwave catching some of us a little off guard, we’re adamant that we’ll be prepared whenever the next one decides to grace us with its presence. While pubs are on the brink of reopening their beer gardens (hurrah!) we know on a sunny day we won’t be able to get a table for love nor money, so we’ve rounded up some of our favourite tipples to stock up on ready for the next park picnic. Now we just need the sunshine…

1. A Funkidory Cocktail Delivery

Peckham bar and record store Funkidory has a slew of slick serves for collection or delivery, perfect for garden entertaining. Their bottled cocktails include an Oolong Martini made with Fino Sherry and New Zealand Waikato Oolong, their most recent creation Bandito, a tequila drink made with pink peppercorn and hibiscus cordial, is currently available on Drinks Drop.

2. Otterbeck Distillery’s Cotton Gin

Distilled in the Yorkshire Dales in an 18th century cotton mill, Cotton Gin (£37.95/70cl www.otterbeckdistillery.co.uk) uses locally foraged botanicals to create a creamy and rounded spirit, perfectly balanced and incredibly smooth with a hint of citrus and fragrant earthy pine notes.

They recently teamed up with TV’s Andy Clarke to create a new Martini recipe, a mix of tantalising tarragon, zingy pomegranate, rosé vermouth and crisp Cotton Gin that we can’t wait to try. Chill two Martini glasses before shaking 3 Parts (150ml) Cotton Gin, 2 Parts (100 ml) Londinio Rosé Vermouth, 1 Part (50ml) Pomegranate Juice and a large handful of ice in a cocktail shaker, for 20 seconds or until the shaker condensates and is extremely cold to the touch. Pour into your glasses and decorate with pomegranate seeds and tarragon leaves; summer in an instant.

3. Pack a Punch with a Pocket Negroni

Aberdeen based distillery, Porter’s Gin, which launched its letterbox gift delivery service, Send A Negroni last year is now offering its popular Negroni recipe in perfectly portioned and transportable small cans that fits in your pocket. The renowned Negroni recipe from Send A Negroni is available pre-batched into individual servings ready to be enjoyed in your garden as well as perfect for summer picnics and parties, once lockdown restrictions are lifted. Available to purchase at ShopCuvee.com (RRP £5)

4. Take It Easy With Mother Root Ginger Switchel

For a midweek tipple with all the taste and none of the booze, Mother Root’s Ginger Switchel. Inspired by an age-old American recipe, this all-natural infusion of pressed ginger juice, blossom honey and organic apple cider vinegar will excite your tastebuds and leave you feeling revitalised. Check out the website www.motherroot.london for a host of delicious recipes, we’re looking forward to trying the fruity Switchel Cobbler on a balmy summer’s evening. £19/480ml, www.motherroot.london.

5. Sip On A Dutch Beer from Lowlander

The pioneers of botanical brewing from the Netherlands, Lowlander Brewing, has added two new low alcohol expressions to its range, just in time for spring. Sitting at 0.3% abv and 4% abv, Lowlander’s 0.3% IPA and 4% Cool Earth Lager is are made using Lowlander’s unique botanical brewing method; a hybrid infusion of botanicals and beer, as well as herbs, spices and fruits. Available exclusively from www.sainsburys.co.uk and in 70 stores nationwide.

6. Smarten Up Your Tin Gin

Now we all love a gin in a tin, but with Slingsby Gin’s new ready to serve options, it might be time to elevate the experience from the supermarket own brands. The Slingsby Solo is a pre-mixed G&T, while the Slingsby Spritz is a combination of Slingsby premium gin, sparkling water and a burst of fruit flavours. Both new products can be purchased from the Spirit of Harrogate website and from the Spirit of Harrogate experience store. Available for a trio pack at £7.50 or treat yourself to a full case of 12 for £30. We know what we’re going to be stocking up on…

7. A Taste of the East from Lanique

Made by steam-distilling thousands of hand-picked rose petals sourced from the East, Lanique is perfect paired with prosecco for a unique fizz, served simply with a squeeze of lime, or added as a splash to prosecco and tonic for a rosy twist on the classic Spritz. It’s definitely one to liven up cocktail hour. £29 from www.lanique.co.uk

8. Indulge in an English Wine from Hattingley Valley

Family-owned Hampshire winery Hattingley Valley, has added its first-ever white wine to its collection of award-winning English sparkling wines. The 2020 Chardonnay joins the brand’s STILL By Hattingley range that includes a 2019 Rosé and 2016 Pinot Noir, both released last year. Available online now (£19.50) the new release is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes with clean, fresh palate, with green apple flavours, and a creamy texture that is nicely balanced with its natural vibrant bright acidity. A fine and rich mouthfeel, with a long dry finish, the Chardonnay is perfect for alfresco drinking, pairing beautifully with barbecued monkfish or chicken – a crowd-pleaser when entertaining in our gardens this spring/summer. www.hattingleyvalley.com

9. Spice Up Your Summer With Spirited Union Rum

Balmy evenings in the garden call for a sexy spiced rum and the range from Spirited Union will be calling our name this summer. We’re desperate to try the Spirited Union Queen Pineapple & Spice Rum (£27.50/70cl) is made by macerating the flesh of the fruity Queen Victoria pineapple in Panamanian Rum. The Spirited Union Spice & Sea Salt (£29.95/70cl) is a smooth cask-aged Barbados rum infused with five delicate spices, including Guatemalan cardamom, Madagascan cloves and vanilla for a sweet spice aroma, as well as Peruvian cacao adds a deep richness and moreish honey-nut finish, enhanced with a pinch of Añana sea salt.

10. Embrace the South of France with Domaine du Météore

This dreamy rosé is the stuff holiday dreams are made of. The delicate blend is a mix of organic Cinsault, Grenache Noir and Mourvèdre; dry and delicate, it has aromas of raspberry, strawberry and grapefruit, with a hint of white pepper, while round, smooth and fresh. It’s dangerously drinkable, utterly delicious and desperately moreish. £15.50 at www.domainedumeteore.com or £93 for a case of six… which we’d recommend investing in as a bottle won’t last long.

Ok…We’re adding one more for luck…

Get the Taste of Italy with Hotel STARLINO Rosso

It might still be a little while until we’re boarding a flight to Italy, but with Hotel STARLINO Rosso Vermouth we can recreate the experience in the garden. Launched in the UK last year, it’s a blend of Italian white wine Sicilian Ansonica, Catarro wines and Marsala wine blended with a careful selection of botanicals including wormwood, bitter orange and cloves. The Red Vermouth is then aged in ex-Kentucky Bourbon Barrels for six months to give a rich, spicy, vanilla flavour. £19.84 at www.masterofmalt.com

Behind the bar December 13, 2020

Festive fusion dining at Ayllu London

With two weeks left before Christmas, Team Coco are ramping up the holiday cheer and checking out the best festive dining spots in town. Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies ventured to Paddington to sample the wonderfully creative fusion cuisine of Ayllu, and their Christmas ‘Nikkei’ tasting menu.

Set right on the canal, Ayllu London is a buzzy yet cosy foodie spot offering Peruvian-Japanese cuisine that packs a festive punch. There’s plenty of canalside seating outdoors if you’re planning a socially-distanced meetup with your pals, and plexiglass dividers inside for extra safety if you’re dining indoors with members of your household.

Inside, Ayllu exudes an effortless yet atmospheric community vibe. Picture low hanging woven pendant lights, deep green velvet banquettes, and plenty of stylish tropical foliage accents that almost tricks you into thinking you’ve hopped on a plane to Peru.

The restaurant was inspired by the food culture the ‘Ayllu’ Incan community and serves up some excellent Peruvian-Japanese small plates and sushi rolls and at excellent value too. We sampled the ‘Nikkei’ Tasting menu, which is priced at an incredibly reasonable £55 for two. We paired our meal with a deliciously-light 2018 New Zealand Pinot Noir from The Nest.

Our culinary voyage began with a trio of starters: Ceviche Mixto, Chicharron Roll and the Cazuela Sabor A Mar.

The Ceviche — a combination of sea bass, octopus, coriander and chilli — was executed to give just the right kick. The Chicharron Roll, which was mixture of avocado, pork, lime and kimchi mayo, was an excellent savoury mouthful, while the Cazuela Sabor Mar carefully married complementary Japanese and Peruvian elements. This final starter dish was made up of chargrilled salmon served over seafood stock rice and roasted seaweed.

Ayllu certainly ramped up the festivities with the Roast Turkey main course, but of course, added their own little fusion twist. Here, they wrapped turkey breast, asparagus and pepper, with delicious bacon and served it with a generous dollop of cranberry sauce.

Finally, we end with a quartet of Peruvian chocolate truffles, a final sweet flourish to bookend truly excellent meal.

‘Festive’ may not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of fusion cuisine, but at £55 for two and with four wonderfully flavourful courses – we highly doubt you’ll find a better festive meal in town this holiday season than at Ayllu London.

Full menu available to view here & Christmas Day menus here.

@ayllulondon | www.ayllu.co.uk/

Behind the bar August 23, 2020

A culinary night out at Adam Handling Chelsea

With lockdown essentially curbing our gastronomic experiences to the confines of our own kitchens, we have found a new-found love and respect for the flavours, service, and sheer spectacle of the restaurant experience.

It is only fitting that one of our first forays back into London’s food scene was a meal at Adam Handling Chelsea, which certainly gave us several months of culinary spectacle in three delicious courses.

Adam Handling Chelsea is located in the stunning Belmond Cadogan Hotel, and the creation of Chef Patron Adam Handling who uses sustainably-sourced seasonal product to showcase the best of contemporary British cuisine.

Our experience began at the Adam Handling Chelsea Bar, which offers an impressive collection of wines and spirits in a luxurious yet cosy atmosphere. We started with a welcome cocktail, served blithely in a makeshift book, and accompanied by a small mason jar of homemade popcorn.

After the essential clink of our cocktail glasses, we made our way through the open kitchen and into the dining room, which can only be described as understated elegance. The menu will certainly please those who are familiar with Adam Handling’s most popular signature dishes, including his famously indulgent chicken butter.

We began our meal with the tuna and beef tartare, which came with a slight kick of mustard and tabasco. We followed this with the perfectly cooked BBQ Octopus, with black garlic and smoked potatoes deep-friend in a lemon purée; and the wood pigeon with girolles mushrooms and gooseberry chutney.

We complemented the strong flavours of our main courses with the green beans with almonds and the salt-baked cauliflower, which was so delicious it almost stole the show. For dessert, we tried the chocolate, bourbon in miso and rye – a sweet final flourish to an already impeccable meal.

The sommelier recommended a sulphite-free organic Valencian red wine called Vermell which offered a beautiful array of dark-fruit flavours and herbal notes. A fittingly fantastic wine pairing to accompany a truly spectacular meal.

Behind the bar August 14, 2020

Escape the heat at London’s new Rosé Retreat

The Folly’s stunning new pop-up bar dedicated to all things pink is the perfect place to sip on some exquisite rosé and escape the heat in the city. The Rosé Retreat in the heart of London, minutes from Monument and Bank Stations, has made going ‘out out’ stylish, yet safe, with a floral decorated Insta-worthy pop-up serving the lightest of Provence wines to cerise cocktails. Guests can enjoy three 100ml tasters of Provencal varieties including Le Petit Ballon, Petale de Rose and Le Source Gabriel (£13.95), perfect for feeling like you are indulging in a wine tasting at a rolling vineyard abroad.

There is also an extensive new wine list to explore which features every shade of pink under the sun with tipples from South Africa to the South of France. For bubbles with your bubble, there’s a beautiful rosé spumante from Veneto for just £29.50 per bottle to share with friends. To enhance the holiday feel, the Rosé Retreat offers delicious sharing boards including the Mezze Board with hummus, baba ganoush, tahini, harissa, vegan feta served with flatbreads and olives and the Charcuterie Board with salami, chorizo, prosciutto and manchego – perfect for grazing. Still feeling peckish? The Folly offers all the fan favourites that we have all been missing during lockdown from juicy burgers to finger licking fish finger sandwiches, gnocchi mac & cheese, decadent salads and green bowls.

Sticking to all things floral, the talented bar team have also created stunning blush cocktails including the Frozen Paloma, a refreshing mix of El Jimador Tequila, freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave syrup and London Essence Rosemary & Grapefruit tonic (£8.95); the Sweet Tooth of Roku gin, rhubarb & custard syrup, lemon juice, along with rhubarb liquor and egg white (£9.95); and Poppies of Oz, a delicate serve of Martin Miller Gin, Briottet poppy liqueur, vanilla syrup, raspberry powder, soda and a dash of lime juice (£9.95). The Rosé Retreat transitions perfectly from afternoon to evening, lights dimmed and mood music on, for that ‘night out’ fix in a safe, secure environment this summer… teaming with roses and rosé!

The Folly will be participating in the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out Scheme so everyone dining can enjoy up to £10 off their meal Monday to Wednesday throughout August.

www.drakeandmorgan.co.uk/the-folly/

Behind the bar May 11, 2020

A Quaffers Guide to Lockdown Tipples

Whether it’s that Spring is in full bloom, or that we have been universally staying at home of an evening, we’re not quite sure, but at the end of the day when we pour a glass of our favourite drink it has been a massive plus throughout Lockdown for #TeamCoco.

With this in mind we have drawn together a little guide of liquor and wine that we have been quaffing whilst indoors, some of which you may like to try in your own home. And, as we begin to ease lockdown it may be worthwhile adding to your drinks collection for when you’re allowed to have friends and visitors around in the future.

Wine

Iheart, Italian Sparkling Rosé, £8.50, Sainsbury’s

Step into spring with this sophisticated sparkling sensation! This light, bubbly and fruity tipple is the perfect match for your home cooked dinners. This charming rose-tinted tipple is bursting with fresh flavours of ripe strawberry and summer fruits and is the perfect drink to enjoy in the sunshine.

Still by Hattingley, 2019 Rosé, £14, www.hattingleyvalley.com

A light and elegant wine from the 2019 vintage, the limited edition STILL Rosé is made from Pinot Noir Précoce, known as early Pinot Noir, sourced from prime Kent and Berkshire vineyards. Using the freshest fruit picked just before rainfall, the wine is processed in the saignée method and fermented in stainless steel tanks for five months, giving it a delicate yet vibrant acidity. Dry with refreshing notes of red fruit, the exquisite pale pink wine pairs perfectly with Asian prawn salad, grilled fish or shellfish and is the ideal accompaniment for al fresco dining.

The Bolney Estate, Estate Pinot Noir 2018, £19.99, www.bolneywineestate.com

An excellent example of a cool climate Pinot Noir, well balanced, it has soft tannins and juicy strawberry and red cherry on the palate. Leather, spice and chocolate complement fresh plums and a smooth and creamy finish.

Gin

Fishers Gin, Original 20cl Pink Fishers, £17.95, www.fishersgin.com

Robust and natural with savoury, aromatic and herbaceous notes, Fishers uses a variety of delicious edible plants such as dittany, lovage, beetroot, bog myrtle, sea purslane, rock samphire, spignel and wood avens to create its distinct flavour, reminiscent of the coast.

Your order of Pink Fishers includes: 1 x 20cl bottle of Fishers Gin “Original” with 2 x miniature Angostura Bitters and 2 x Fever Tree Mediterranean Light Tonics – ideal to make your own ‘Pink Fishers’. Includes free delivery for all online orders.

Manchester Gin, Lockdown Package, £95, www.manchestergin.co.uk

Create your own bespoke Lockdown Package from Manchester Gin, with a choice of three 500ml bottles from a choice of six flavours (including Manchester Spirit Vodka). You can enjoy any three full-sized 500ml bottles plus six tonics from Fever Tree or Franklin & Sons. Choices include: Signature Gin, Raspberry Infused Gin, Wild Spirit Gin, Blackberry Infused Gin, FAC51 The Haçienda Gin, or Manchester Spirit Vodka. For a limited time they are offering free delivery on all orders over £30.

Villa Ascenti Gin, £34.95, www.thewhiskyexchange.com

This premium Italian Gin from Villa Ascenti is made using a secret combination of locally-sourced botanicals, including Tuscan juniper berries, fresh mint, thyme, and Moscato grapes. A light and aromatic spirit, which is perfect for this time of year.

Rum

ARLU Rum, Passionfruit & Mango, £23, www.arlurum.com or from Harvey Nichols

This expertly crafted rum collection is imported from the award-winning Demerara Diamond Distillery and lovingly blended with unique natural flavours and spices in the heart of Manchester. Offering three new flavours in the range; ARLU RUM Original Spiced, ARLU RUM Passionfruit & Mango and ARLU RUM Blood Orange are set to tantalise taste buds. We are loving the passionfruit and mango flavour here at #TeamCoco.

Whisky and Whiskey

Talisker Single Malt, Scotch Whisky, £39.45, www.thewhiskyexchange.com

Talisker Single Malt is a seriously classic malt whisky, with an intense smoky sweetness, including notes of heather, moor, sweet seaweed, and black pepper. It boasts a powerful peat-smoke flavour with sea-water saltiness and a citrus boost – a drink that is full of character.

Jack Daniel’s, Tennessee Apple Whiskey, £25, Tesco, Asda, and Sainsbury’s

The Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple: a blend of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey with finely crafted apple liqueur. The newest member of the Jack Daniel’s family is made from real crisp apples for a fresh distinctive flavour and approachable taste that is truly Jack to the core. Perfect served as a Jack Apple and Tonic!

Hard Seltzer

DRTY, £15 (6 x mixed cans), www.drtydrinks.com or Ocado

DRTY is a zero-carb hard seltzer canned drink, offered in White Citrus and Raspberry Rosé flavours. DRTY uses fermented fruits with 100% fermentable sugar profile, leaving no residual sugar and no carbohydrates, which in turn offers a crisp and refreshing sugar-free beverage clocking in at only 90 calories and 4% ABV, making them the perfect drink to have this spring and summer.

Behind the bar April 1, 2020

Bring the Bar Home: Essential Lockdown Deliveries

Thanks to this lockdown, every night is Friday night and every day is the new Friday. One problem? It’s a little trickier to make our way to our favourite bars when they’re closed. But no fear. We live in the 21st century and what better way to make use of our innovative ways than to arrange for home delivery of our favourite tipples – to see us through this quarantine? From wine at our favourite restaurants to our local watering hole’s creative cocktails, London bartenders and sommeliers aren’t about to let you go thirsty during this pandemic and we felt it only fair to share. For those who live outside London, don’t worry, you won’t miss out on Denver liquor delivery offering a wide selection of beverages for both pickup and delivery to your door.

Hedonism Wines

Not ready to give up a life of luxury in lockdown? Hedonism Wines is continuing as normal with their wine deliveries – across London and nationwide so it’s never been easier to bring the bar home. They also ship internationally, I’m just saying, depends on how much of a wine fiend you are. The fine wine and spirits boutique in Mayfair supplies to the sommeliers of HIDE Mayfair so if you’re familiar with the Michelin-starred restaurant, you have an idea of the vast wine selection upon which you’re about to feast your eyes. A self-isolation perk to this all-year-round delivery service: Hedonism is currently offering free delivery on orders of over six bottles in London and UK – who says a glass (or bottle) or wine can’t help you through hard times?

Bar Douro

Bar Douro just opened its second restaurant in Finsbury Avenue Square so it deserves any support that can be given. Choose from a quality selection of Portuguese wines and get them delivered to your door across most of the UK. True, they’re best enjoyed alongside the restaurant’s delicious small plate (if you know me, you’ve heard about that suckling pig sandwich) but take what you can get during this lockdown – it might just save you in this self-isolation situation we’ve got going on here. Bring the bar home with your favourite wines – but don’t do what I did and find yourself with corked wines when you have no corkscrew. Need another reason to support these guys? £1 from every bottle (not order) will be donated to Hospitality Action which has been set up to help vulnerable hospitality workers.

Bring Your Bar Home Cocktail Delivery

Ever miss the idea of the humble bar hop? Born out of a love for both good cocktails and the hospitality industry, Bring Your Bar Home offers users a full guide to bars and restaurants offering cocktail delivery and takeaway. Not just for those London-based, the knowledge and important information stretches across the UK too, meaning if you’re a fan of Santo Remedio’s margaritas, you don’t have to make the trek to London to get your fix. A great way to support the struggling hospitality industry and avoid the cold weather, while enjoying your favourite tipple as a treat. Some bars, including Mac & Wild and Lollipop, offer beautifully bottled cocktails, meaning they can last you until the weekend, while bars such as Nine Lives are distributing cocktail kits, with snacks including popcorn. What’s not to love?

Novikov Cocktail Classes

No deliveries from Mayfair restaurant Novikov but the Lounge Bar is running its own cocktail classes for 11 weeks on the restaurant’s Instagram TV channel. Anyone missing their Friday night drinks (any day of the week, to be honest) can head to Novikov’s Instagram and watch bartender Gianfranco Lozzi teach us all a think or two about making our favourite tipples. Bring the bar home and have some cocktails in quarantine. Put some music on, get out of your sweatpants and it will feel like a night out before you know it. Next one is this Friday – see you there?

Funkin House Party

Why not bring the bar home with everyone’s favourite on-the-go drinks – a good old “tinny”. Funkin has launched the Funkin House Party which includes two of each of their cocktails in a tin: Passionfruit Martini, Espresso Martini and Piña Colada. There’s six Nitro cans in a pack and it costs only £12. This one is definitely for those of you who are doubting your cocktail creativity skills – and for those who would rather pop open a can in three seconds, rather than put your bartender skills to work.

Hacha

East Londoners might be familiar with this agaveria bar in Dalston – perfect for getting your agave fix. With an impressive list of 25 different tequilas and mezcals (always baffling me), the bar even offers lesser-known agave spirits (further baffling me). Haha had huge success with their signature drink; the Mirror Margarita (made with Don Julio tequila) and have now made this cocktail available for delivery during this lockdown period. Sipping on the Cocktail of the Year (CLASS bar awards) seems the only appropriate way to bring the bar home and you can enjoy this 50cl bottle for just £35.

Mr Lyan

We’re all fans of Ryan Chetiyawardana, aka Mr Lyan, the award-winning bartender. Known for his innovative drinks skills and forward-thinking sustainable cocktail creations, don’t fret that you can no longer get your sustainable serves – he’s only gone and launched a bottled selection of his most popular cocktails. Shop from Master of Malt and treat yourself to a Bonfire Old Fashioned; made with Mr Lyan whisky, lapsang souchong and Mr Lyan cola bitters. Bring the bar home and knock back a Spotless Martini – which contains Mr Lyan’s gin, vermouths, distilled olive and distilled lemon.

Lockdown Liquor

Sorry to sound as though I’m encouraging you to be an alcoholic; I’m simply trying to help out those of you who are missing the watering hole. Here’s a list of branded bottles you can get your hands on easily while continuing to social-distance and self-isolate. All available via contact-free delivery so now is the time to stock up.

El Rayo tequila is a London-based brand that is encouraging the nation to indulge in a “T&T” (tequila and tonic). Well, why not? Now is the time to try new things and I think that sentiment should be extended to alcohol.

Carounn Gin has launched the ‘Sofa Spritz’; a cocktail you can easily create at home with apple juice, soda water and white wine. All of which are current staples in my kitchen right now (eggs and pasta have been stockpiled so these were all that were left). Who needs a bartender?

Magic Mixers

Try experimenting with your mixer too; Two Keys is an interesting and tasty alternative to your regular tonic or soda. Sold on Amazon, the flavours include green tea, black tea, grapefruit and lemon.

Pedrino Spritz

Pedrino Spritz takes the alternatives to a Gin and Tonic to a whole new level with its offerings of a Vermouth and Tonic; Sherry and Tonic and Ruby and Tonic Spritzes. Using natural and authentic ingredients, these spritzes will perfect your Aperitivo Hour (for one, obviously) or help you add a little spritz to the cocktails you’re currently creating (I hope you are inspired by this article, after all). It’s also nice to support the smaller businesses during this difficult time.

Milroy’s

For those of you who are whisky-inclined, London’s Original Whisky Specialist Milroy’s has launched a ‘Drams-to-your-Door’ delivery service where they bring the best whiskies from their bars to your home. They are also doing a ‘Tastings at Home’ scenario where you can enjoy a live virtual tasting from one of Milroy’s whisky experts – complete with whisky flight and consultation. You know, if you get tired of the wine and cocktail offerings going on. One thing is for sure: Londoners won’t be getting thirsty during this lockdown.

World of Zing

Who needs a bar when in a world of bottled cocktails? The award-winning World of Zing has a selection of crafted cocktail creations that are usually found in some of the UK’s most popular venues – ranging from The Langham Hotel to Byron Burger and Curzon Cinemas. They’ve designed a range to be enjoyed at home which couldn’t be better news now we are in lockdown so sit back on your sofa and enjoy the likes of Cherry Blossom Negronis or Persian Lime and Nori Margaritas. I love the interesting flavours – a zesty (or zingy) take on the classic cocktails; there’s also Elderflower and Earl Grey Gin Collins and Raspberry and Basil Mojitos to choose from and I haven’t even listed the full range. Can you tell I’m a fan?

The Duppy Share

A UK favourite when it comes to dark rum, The Duppy Share has also just launched an even spicier version. To help combat any lockdown blues, the brand has launched a ‘Home Rum’ isolation kit to help any rum lover get by. The kit includes The Duppy Share Aged (20cl), two bottles of Fever Tree ginger beer and two The Duppy Share gold cups. What’s more is that the rum brand plans to donate all profits from sales of this kit to Hospitality Action; a charity organisation dedicated to helping those struggling in the hospitality industry. Drink and it’s a good deed.

Everleaf

Not one to leave those who don’t drink out of Thirsty Thursdays (or thirsty any day, to be honest with you), I’ve also got a non-alcoholic option for you. Everleaf is made from sustainably sourced botanicals, allowing you to create the perfect spritz. Guilt-free, too. Chamomile is even used in the aperitif to enhance the fragrant aroma of the drink – you’re not supposed to but I’d add this to my spirit to get some more goodness in my drink.

Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company

Not a wine, spirit or cocktail in the slightest but I do feel as though I need to give you a snack for all this alcohol I am advising you to purchase and consume. What better snack, as well, than some good old cheese? Really I’m just trying to maintain the aesthetic of a bar – and I cannot recommend a glass of wine and nibbling on some cheese every evening to get us through this lockdown. From experience, I admit. The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company is an independent supplier selling traditional cheddar cheese and cheese straws (Oh lord). The brand has just introduced ‘Isolation Bundles’ for customers who crave the cheese but can no longer get to the shop. Prices are reduced and do we need more reasons to buy cheese? Again, supporting small businesses is good, people.

Behind the bar December 6, 2019

Behind the Bar: Don Papa unveils Sevillana cask finish rum

Don Papa, the premium small batch rum, has launched its newest product, the Sevillana Cask Finish – a limited edition, super-premium rum inspired by the oranges of Seville, Spain.

Blended by Don Papa’s Master Blender to produce a unique limited-edition spirit, the Sevillana Cask is bursting with fragrant orange and Don Papa’s signature vanilla notes, with boosts of orange rind flavours, nutty aromas and subtle dried fruits. House of Coco had the chance to sample the new rum at the launch party of the new product in London. The event was an energetic showcase of the new rum fit with passionate flamenco performances, delicious food and sublime cocktails.

Introducing Don Papa Sevillana: A Culinary Journey Inspired by Philippine Heritage

This harmony of flavours, rhythms and textures found both in the rum as well as at the launch event, is an ode to the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage. Sevillana is a blend of five and fifteen-year-old rums distilled from 100% Negros Island sugar cane before ageing in American Oak ex-bourbon barrels. This is followed by three years in two different types of Spanish casks: oloroso sherry casks and Andalusian Vino De Naranja (orange wine) casks. These unique casks are used to make a local speciality, a popular local Seville orange spirit, enjoyed during the summer months.

This mix of oloroso sherry casks, orange liqueur casks and Philippine rum found in the Don Papa Sevillana, was inspired and made possible by the 18th century Manila-Acapulco Galleon trade, which linked Spain to the Philippines via Mexico, bringing a bounty of products, culture and influences.

The Sevillana Cask Finish is presented in an exquisite and vibrant Rococo-inspired design reflecting aspects of the island’s Spanish heritage, its lush colourful landscape and the irreverence of Papa Isio’s story, the revolutionary hero who inspired the Don Papa name. Don Papa Sevillana Cask Finish (70cl) is priced at £70 and available at www.harveynichols.com.

Matthias Cadeac d’arbaud, Global Brand Ambassador at Don Papa, says:

“Rum drinking is on the rise in the UK and people are realising that there is a whole world of rum for them to explore. The taste and provenance of Don Papa offers something completely unique to both rum amateurs and connoisseurs alike. Great rum starts with great sugar and Don Papa harnesses the spirit of Sugarlandia, an exotic, mystical land of alchemy and home to some of the world’s sweetest sugarcane. The result is a rich and smooth liquid full of depth and favour. Replace the spirit in your favourite cocktail with Don Papa to put a delicious Filipino twist on a classic or enjoy it on the rocks for a more intense and purer hit of favour and sweetness.”

Explore the genius-themed evening at TT Liquor in this behind-the-bar feature on House of Coco. Immerse yourself in the experience.

Behind the bar December 3, 2019

Behind the bar: A must-do date night in London at Cahoots

We took a trip back in time on our recent #cococouples date night at Cahoots new 1940s train-station-themed bar, and it was just the immersive experience we hoped it would be.

After much anticipation and excitement for the launch evening, we finally got to explore the newest Cahoots venue in Carnaby for #cococouples. What is already a fabulous area for date night has suddenly got even better with the opening of this new gem, and it’s flown straight to the top of our list for go-to date night recommendations. This shiny new train station bar is located very conveniently opposite the much-loved original underground station on Kingly Street- so no tricky transfers there. This venue boasts more space to swing dance fitting 150 people in total with two floors: one at ground level and another top-secret reservations-only space tucked away downstairs.

The Ticket Hall- ground floor fun

We were welcomed very graciously by the friendly doormen dressed in ’40s gear and headed straight to the glossy ticket window-turned-bar for a couple of drinks. Ever a gin-lover I opted for the statement Vera Lynn; a sweet cocktail with apple puree and pear served in the fanciest ceramic green mug. My date opted for the Cahooch sour with lemon, chamomile & cardamom syrup which seemed to go down very well- and we were soon in need of a second. We truly felt transported back in time as we lapped up our surroundings. Authentic tickets, vintage photographs and train station memorabilia lined the walls, and swing music played in the background whilst we sipped our cocktails and chatted. We felt peckish so we sampled some of Cahoots ham grenades with sour cream and chives, my goodness they were worth every bite, we almost polished off the entire trayful.

As well as these tasty night-time nibbles, Cahoots also serve food from 12 pm during the day, with a split menu of British and American dishes. We have yet to try these, but we have our eyes on the chicken and waffles and the sloppy joe bun, no doubt we will be back soon to sample them.

At the rear of The Ticket Hall, we discovered another small bar which Cahoots have modelled on a traditional tobacconist & grocery store. This was our favourite touch, and we spent a little while there admiring the vintage fridge and all the interesting newspaper clippings pinned up against the train station noticeboard.

Secret party vibes down in The Control Room

We were handed our ‘clock in’ passes to access the reservations-only Control Room, so we headed towards the convincing ‘NO ENTRY’ door and sneaked through. I loved the dark metallic walls and poster décor inside the derelict mineshaft as we made our way down the stairs, it really added to the secret speakeasy feel of the space. We could also hear the buzz of live music and chatting as we got closer, and the vibrant atmosphere of The Control Room hit us as soon as we swung open the doors.

Down here the décor is completely different from The Train Station upstairs but no less captivating. Exposed pipes, switchboards and the large light-up station map perched above the bar caught our eyes the most. We grabbed a booth table underneath the archways to chat and admire the space. Dim lights against the deep red decor alongside the live singer made for the perfect date night ambience. This amazing space is used for events, live entertainment and immersive movie nights, musical quiz nights and ‘Cahooch’ cocktail masterclasses.

The bar has a more experimental feel in The Control Room, serving up incredible cocktail concoctions like the cheekily named Knob Twiddler that is served in a radio box which you must tune to open. After sampling some more drinks we fancied a date-night boogie so we headed away from our booth and swayed alongside the Cahoots swing dancers.

To sum it up

If you want a date night spot that you’ll fall in love with fast then this is the place to go. We love the shiny new Cahoots just as much as the original for a date night that ticks all the boxes and more. Pop in and sample the nibbles perfectly paired with the fun and experimental cocktails served downstairs. We also recommend checking out what’s on and maybe catching a movie experience or cocktail class or two. We’ll certainly be keeping our eyes open for these ourselves.

Want to visit Cahoots? Of course, you do. We’ve got the details covered for you below:

For more information and to book a table:
https://www.cahoots-london.com/cahoots-ticket-hall-control-room/

Opening Times:
Ticket Hall: Open seven days a week: 12 pm-1 am
Control Room: Monday – Thursday: 5 pm-1 am/ Friday: 4 pm-1 am/ Saturday: 4 pm-1 am/ Sunday: Closed

For another immersive experience, see our piece on Mr. Fogg’s Society of Exploration.

Want more London date night ideas? Check out these London bars.

Behind the bar October 16, 2019

Behind the Bar: Get your Downton Abbey fix at Aqua Shard

We made our way high above London’s glittering skyline to try out the latest experiential cocktail menu from Aqua Shard. Amidst jaw-dropping views and lush interiors, Aqua Shard’s Downtown Abbey menu will surely transport you to the Crawley manor, albeit 31 floors above the ground.

The quirky cocktail menu takes historical inspirations from the hit period drama and is availably until the end of the year. Aqua Shard Bar Manager Sophie Bratt has added some unexpected twists to your favourite cocktail classics and gave that will surely get the Edwardian stamp of approval. Here are a few of our favourites…

The Lady

The Lady was inspired by the Crawley family’s matriarch, Lady Violet. It’s a subtly sweet mixture of The Violet Fog Gin, Graham’s blend No 5 white Port, Creme de Violette, and lychee juice, finished off with some violet flowers and served in an equally lady-like compete glass. Now that’s a drink that’s fit for a lady.

The Head Housekeeper

This eccentric gin-sour inspired concoction is served in a stemmed teacup and will make you question whether to hold it by the stem or by the handle. It is updated with Warner’s Honeybee gin, lemon and raspberry jam and takes inspiration from Downton Abbey’s housekeeper, Mrs. Hughes.

The Butler

Mr. Carson, the Crawley family’s butler, is probably one of England’s most famous fictional butlers and this drink is a fitting tribute. It’s made with Roe and Co Irish Whiskey, Poire William, Absinthe – and a touch of vanilla sugar. Not to mention, it’s served in a brandy balloon – and with a matching bell too!

The Manor House

This drink takes traditional Yorkshire flavours (where the program is set) with some contemporary twists. Its made with rhubarb and Yorkshire tea, Warmers rhubarb gin, Belsazar rose vermouth, Supasowa citrus, and Cointreau.

The Downton Abbey menu is now available in www.aquashard.co.uk. For more information visit the website or call 020 3011 1256

Behind the bar September 25, 2019

Behind the Bar: East London’s newest watering hole, The Arches

The Arches is situated in Bethnal Green and it one of East London’s coolest and also newest drinking spots. The space is ideal for pop up food events to shake up London’s food scene. We checked out the Spanish Supper Club with the Modest Merchant. These Supper Clubs, intimate, fun and entertaining are set to run on the last Thursday of every month.

The bar in the venue, aptly named Bubbles, is situated in the railway arch of an old car wash. It was truly fizz galore with an amazing choice of tipples from around the world. The Bubbles menu features 15 sparkling wines from around the world. Each wine paired perfectly with different dishes from the spectacular tapas style supper that we were served.

The Modest Menu supper club series returns to The Arches on 26th September with an evening extravaganza by Oxalis and The Modest Merchant. Expect an evening filled with wonderful wine and a Modest Menu focused on the Oxalis specialty, Game.

The Arches is situated in South Bethnal Green and housed underneath 6 Victorian railway arches, of which exist 3 brand new venues – 640East, Taproom by Bethnal Green and Drop Yard. The Arches can be found at: Railway Arches, 157-162 Malcolm Pl, Bethnal Green, London E2 0EU.