Soho Grind Bar, W1

Fashion features and entertainment assistant Emma Firth tries out new coffee cocktail bar in Soho, Grind.

sohogrindlandscape.jpg
sohogrindlandscape.jpg

Fashion features and entertainment assistant Emma Firth tries out new coffee cocktail bar in Soho, Grind.

When Shoreditch Grind, a trendy coffee house off Old Street, opened in 2011 it was an instant success. Its non-pretentious, stripped back interior, cool music and relaxed vibe drew in all types of East-Londonites. An Espresso bar by day, cocktail bar at night; which specializes in espresso based drinks.

Soho Grind, its Central London counterpart, has swiftly followed suit, unveiling its basement-cool cocktail bar, after opening in May. For those who would rather not trek East for a laidback, offbeat drinks venue, this central London haunt hits the spot. 

Perfect for those searching for an intimate, speakeasy inspired cocktail bar for after work drinks or a first date. Situated on charming Beak Street, here you can escape the hustle and bustle of the more central, clubby areas of Soho to enjoy a cocktail or three. 

Making our way down the stairs from the café to the dimly lit bar, a group of us grab the sofa in the corner (tip: get there early to nab some seats, it’s a small bar and can get quite busy later in the evening). 

One of the staff members suggests we all try their speciality, a Soho Grind Espresso Martini. It definitely provides an intense kick for caffeine lovers. But if you prefer a less strong coffee tasting drink, we suggest you try the smooth and comforting Flat White Russian. The drink of the evening, however, was the Appleton Pears - a sweet and summery tipple with white rum, juice, agave syrup and chocolate bitters. 

pears.jpg

pears.jpg

This is a great little bolthole with a modern retro feel, and sure to be a hit for those looking for a hidden gem in Soho.

19 Beak St, W1 (0207 287 7073). Mon-Thurs open until 11:30pm, Fri-Sat open until midnight. Cocktails are £8. 

The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.