East London: a melting pot of cultures, a breeding ground for creativity, and, most importantly for our purposes, a haven for the unconventional. Forget your run-of-the-mill cocktail bars and generic pubs. East London thrives on the quirky, the unexpected, the downright bizarre.
Here’s your guide from CJ Digital to 10 of the most unusual watering holes this vibrant corner of the city has to offer, perfect for those seeking an evening that’s anything but ordinary.
1. The Natural Philosopher (Hackney):
Fancy a spot of vintage charm with your cocktail? The Natural Philosopher, an “accidental speakeasy” hidden through a genuine Mac repair shop on Hackney Road, delivers on that quirky charm in spades. Adorned with all kinds of antiques, Victoriana, and vintage Mac computers, the venue boasts a unique appeal. Its sunken bar is a prominent feature where award-winning bartender Josh Powell concocts exciting cocktails using foraged ingredients from around East London. With a happy hour offering 2 for £16 on twisted classics and a regularly changing menu, The Natural Philosopher promises a delightful and surprising experience for any visitor.
2. Blame Gloria (Dalston):
Stepping into Blame Gloria feels like stepping into a technicolor dream. Think Miami Vice meets Barbie’s dreamhouse, with a sprinkle of kitsch thrown in for good measure. Flamingo pink walls adorned with neon signs clash with zebra-print furnishings, creating a gloriously over-the-top atmosphere. But the real star of the show is the cocktail menu, a playful list of concoctions served in everything from seashells to flaming pineapples. It’s a visual and tastebud explosion guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
3. The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town (Spitalfields):
Calling all cat lovers and the simply curious! The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town takes the concept of a themed bar to a whole new level. This whimsical space doubles as a cat café, where you can sip on meticulously crafted cocktails surrounded by purring felines. The décor is a wonderland of Alice in Wonderland meets Cheshire Cat, with mismatched furniture, mismatched prints, and an overall sense of delightful absurdity. Don’t forget to book your visit in advance, as this purrfect spot fills up fast.
4. Tonight Josephine (Waterloo):
History buffs, this one’s for you. Tonight Josephine is a subterranean cocktail bar inspired by the life of Josephine Bonaparte, Napoleon’s enigmatic wife. Descend the stairs and be transported to a dimly lit, opulent French boudoir, complete with velvet drapes, antique furniture, and portraits of the Empress herself. The cocktail menu takes inspiration from Josephine’s life, with each drink boasting a unique historical twist.
5. The Cauldron (Shoreditch):
Calling all Harry Potter fans! The Cauldron brings the magic of potions brewing to life in this interactive cocktail experience. You’ll be kitted out in your own wizarding robes and guided through the process of creating your own unique concoctions, complete with bubbling dry ice and theatrical flourishes. It’s an immersive experience perfect for unleashing your inner alchemist and enjoying a truly unforgettable night out.
6. The Drift (Shoreditch):
If a night on the water is your idea of a good time, The Drift has you covered (metaphorically, of course). This wonderfully unique bar takes inspiration from the high seas, with its interior resembling a luxurious ship’s cabin. Think plush armchairs, porthole windows, and nautical paraphernalia galore. Even the cocktail menu plays on the theme, with drinks named after famous voyages and explorers. Settle in, raise a glass, and set sail on a voyage of discovery (without the seasickness).
7. Power (Aldgate East):
Looking for somewhere to unleash your inner dancing queen (or king)? Head to Power, a vibrant nightclub dedicated to the electrifying world of Afrobeats. Immerse yourself in the infectious rhythms, lose yourself on the dance floor, and enjoy top-notch Afrobeats DJs spinning the hottest tracks. Power brings a taste of West Africa’s vibrant music scene to the heart of East London, creating an experience that’s both energetic and culturally enriching.
8. Trailer Happiness (Shoreditch):
Tired of the typical bar scene? Trailer Happiness offers a refreshingly different setting – a vintage American trailer park! Nestled amongst a collection of colorful trailers, each with its own quirky theme, this bar is perfect for a laid-back evening with friends. Grab a seat on a mismatched picnic bench, order a craft beer or cocktail, and soak up the unique atmosphere. They regularly host live music nights and movie screenings, making Trailer Happiness a true East London gem.
9. The Breakfast Club (Shoreditch):
Who says bars are just for evening entertainment? The Breakfast Club is a daytime haven for those seeking a unique and delicious dining experience. This quirky café-bar serves up a menu of all-day breakfast classics and innovative brunch dishes, all served in a vibrant and eclectic setting. Think vintage arcade games, retro décor, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch or a pre-party pick-me-up.
10. The Book Club (Farringdon):
For those who love books and cocktails in equal measure, The Book Club is a dream come true. This cozy bar-bookstore is filled with shelves brimming with literary treasures, making it the perfect place to curl up with a good book and a glass of wine. They also host a regular calendar of literary events, including author readings, book launches, and themed evenings. It’s a haven for bookworms and cocktail lovers alike, offering a unique and intimate atmosphere.
East London’s bars are anything but ordinary.
From over-the-top themes to hidden speakeasies and everything in between, there’s a unique watering hole to suit every taste and preference. So, next time you’re in the East End, venture off the beaten path and discover the city’s most unusual and unforgettable bars.