Shaker & Co are the new movers and shakers on the London cocktail scene. Known previously for their expertise in the field of bar training and consultancy, the Shaker team are now venturing into running a bar while continuing the cocktail classes and school. I was intrigued to hear about the other bars advised by them: Nightjar in Shoreditch, and Bar National in Beirut which I hope to visit soon. After experiencing Shaker & Co, the salon style pub-bar near Warren Street, I can honestly say I cannot think of a nicer place to spend an evening. A large, beautifully crafted wood bar dominates the main area, with eclectic rickety furniture providing a quirky seating arrangement. Behind the bar, a remarkable old-fashioned display of bottles and books adorns the wall. Serving the very best cocktails, real ale and also offering music and food, there is nothing not to like.
Music is not to be missed at Shaker & Co with acoustic sessions every Wednesday and Red, White and Blues nights on Thursdays. We listened to the bright young singer, Roberta J Keen, a pretty waif with a set of impressive compositions. Along with her devoted guitarist, she entertained the crowd at Shaker & Co with her lilting tone and understated attitude, her voice reminded me of the very brilliant Regina Spektor.
Every month the lower floor tasting room is transformed into a themed boudoir, for April they welcome the ‘Remy Rooms’ with sultry black and red décor to evoke the class and prestige of Remy Martin cognac. A menu of six speciality cocktails all feature the Remy liquor, we tried the Remy Martin Mojito (a French twist on the Cuban classic) and Sidecar (a classic mix served in a pretty sugar frosted glass).
We tried far too many cocktails from the main list to mention them all… from our table’s selection and the ones I tried I can recommend the following:
– The S&Co: Remy Martin VSOP Cognac, Housemade chai cider, Tamarind, Rose & Maraschino – an innovative aromatic drink served in a super cute mini shaker, which you can pay a mere £2.50 to take home.
– Potato Sack Sour: Benedictine, Aperol, Pisco, Lemon, Egg white with Peach Bitters – an artistic and attractive cocktail, with delicate patterning decorating the top frothy layer.
– The Dillionaire: Dill infused Tanqueray, Campari, Crème de Figue & Lemon – a refreshing and stylish drink, embellished with a striking garnish.
Cocktails cost a reasonable £7.50, with a few classics reduced during happy hour.
A brief food menu offers sustenance… we tried fresh homemade nachos with dips and crunchy deep fried okra with chilli sauce. This was ideal salty and tasty picking food, the perfect accompaniment to our cocktails.
Shaker & Co, Warren Street is full of character and charm offering creative drinks and lovely atmosphere – visit the mixology pros before everyone finds out about London’s best new cocktail bar.
Visit the website here for more information.