The Grand Slam Gimlet - made with Buttered Sipsmith strawberry smash gin, Champagne cordial and strawberries.
So what do we need to know about Ever After?
This new self-styled cocktail bar and kitchen in Hoxton had a pretty rocky start, opening briefly in the middle of various lockdowns. But this summer, it's been able to throw open its doors properly. The look and feel is Parisian bar but the vibe is 100% East London.
Where is it?
It's where Petit Pois used to be, on Hoxton Square - this is the space above Happiness Forgets (and is owned by the same team), so about halfway between Old Street and Hoxton stations.
Where should we sit?
There's a nice terrace outside if the weather's in your favour, and we liked the high top tables for two along the right-hand side. But if watching the bartender at work at close quarters is your thing, then pull up a stool at the bar.
Looking out onto Hoxton Square from one of the high top tables.
Who's in charge here?
The drinks list is full of what they describe as 'elegant takes on classics'. All cost £9 unless you're looking at the non-alcoholic section which is £7 a drink. Looking after us on the night we went was Johan Ekelund who previously worked at Happiness Forgets.
I love a good martini. Anything for me?
Absolutely, you'll be wanting one of their pre-batched House Martinis.
This is the Absolut Elyx Vodka martini made with Dolin Dry Vermouth and Kosertae White Tea and poured straight from the freezer. A fast and perfect pour.
Anything frozen and boozy?
If you want a refined alcoholic slushie then this one is for you.
The frozen watermelon and yuzu margarita - made with Calle 23 Tequila, watermelon, yuzushu and lemon. Such a summery drink!
And what about the food?
Running the kitchen is Head Chef Adele Ruksane, who was previously at popular Marais neo-bistro Bonomie in Paris. At Ever After, she's brought in a really appealing menu of small plates.
Here's a taster:
Ham and cheese croquettes (£6) - whopping great croquettes but very good.
Pan-fried duck breast with spinach, ginger and blackberries (£9.50)
Pork belly tacos with tomatoes and salsa verde - perfect bar food
What is there for vegans or vegetarians?
Plenty - about a quarter of the dishes are suitable for vegans, including this:
Roasted aubergine with salsa verde and pumpkin puree (£6) - nice to see a bit of a different take on an aubergine dish.
Summing up:
Knowing about a friendly neighbourhood bar in the craziness that can be this part of Hoxton/Shoreditch on a weekend, is a very useful piece of info to have to hand - especially if you want to avoid the hordes of hen and stag nights marauding their way through the area. Ever After neatly marries both cocktails and a lovely food menu, which is always a good thing. Put this in your digital little black book.
More about Ever After
Where is it? 8-9 Hoxton Square, London N1 6NU
How to book: Call 0207 613 3689
Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @everafterbar
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