We enjoy a post-work tipple here at Coreco, so it’s safe to say we’ve sampled a fair few watering holes over the years.
With an extensive knowledge of the best boozers and bars in the business, we thought we’d impart some of our drinking wisdom to those in need of refreshment in and around the City of London. We’ve already done the hard work, so all that’s left is for you to get the drinks in!
An experimental cocktail bar just across the road from Coreco’s Houndsditch HQ, this bar and restaurant gets its name from the molecular mixology used to create their vast menu of drink concoctions – they take their cocktails very seriously here! The understated and chic interior creates a great ambience and is complemented by the twinkly outside area which has comfy sofas for people (like us) to congregate. The attention to detail does not end with the drinks and decor either, as the food is also top notch, offering a varied menu that’s served all day. With all this, and more, it’s safe to say we’re pretty happy to be a stone’s throw away!
Best for: Catching up with a friend that loves a cocktail
Address: 6 Bevis Marks, London, EC3A 7BA.
This speakeasy is hidden away next to a launderette close to Leadenhall Market – blink and you’ll miss it – so listen out for the prohibition music. Inside the bar-cum-drinking den, the prohibition theme continues, with a multitude of cocktails on offer and made to order by the friendly and knowledgeable bar staff. On Thursdays and Fridays, the bar hosts live bands playing blues, swing and jazz music, so you can truly lose yourself in the 1920s atmosphere. The Bootlegger also has a quaint courtyard so you can enjoy your drinks without missing the sun. A perfect bar to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Best for: Impressing a date
Address: 25-26 Lime St, London, EC3M 7HR
The Crown and Shuttle offers a great selection of craft beers, but the real draw is its extensive beer garden, making it a popular spot for drinks after work. Coming alive during the summer months and boasting a large, covered seating area in case the temperamental English weather decides to take a turn for the worse, they also play host to pop-up food stalls – because when has anyone complained about a burger with their beer?
Best for: Taking the whole work gang
Address: 226 Shoreditch High St, London, E1 6PJ
Situated near Spitalfields Market, The Water Poet is a spacious pub with multiple rooms and a sizeable pub garden. Its relaxed environment makes it a popular haunt for locals and, if you can grab a seat outside, the perfect place to wile away a summer’s evening. The Water Poet offers numerous craft beers, wines and spirits, as well as an extensive food menu. Just last year it was recognised by Time Out London as the best pub in Hoxton and Shoreditch, so you know you’ll be in safe hands.
Best for: When you need a post-work drink on a Monday
Address: 9-11 Folgate St, Spitalfields, London, E1 6BX
The Commercial Tavern on Commercial Road, right next to Shoreditch High Street station, is the perfect pit-stop for a post-work beer. On a warm summer’s evening punters often spill out onto the street, with the benches just outside the front a sought-after spot. If you’re looking for a drink in a more relaxed setting, there’s a separate bar upstairs. A large pool table can also be found in the side room if you fancy your chances after a few beers.
Best for: Just going for ‘one’ on a Friday evening
Address: 142-144 Commercial St, London, E1 6NU
So if you find yourself in the vicinity and fancying a drink then these are some of Coreco’s (frequently) tried and tested favourites. For now, we’ll just have to keep trying them until we can pick a firm favourite – any excuse for a post-grind pint. If you’re a fan of any other local establishments we haven’t mentioned, recommendations are always welcome. It’s your round anyway, isn’t it!?