Ruby's

Address: 76 Stoke Newington Road, London, N16 7XB , United Kingdom
Style: Cocktail bar

Review

Ruby's is hidden below a townhouse off a quiet bit of Stoke Newington Road and accessed via a flight of rickety stairs. Outside the hidden door, a vintage cinema sign with 'Fortune Favours the Brave' gives away the location.

Apparently once the kitchen for a Chinese restaurant, the basement site is now decorated with glazed white bricks, wooden floorboards, paint stripped walls and the odd lamp or wall light. The decor gives off a slightly grungy, unloved air which suits the location perfectly.

A clutter of wooden tables and chairs fills the space but it's the vintage beer mats that make the setting so charming; particularly tempting to your regular kleptomaniac. The drinks menu is a small list of five signature cocktails which includes some interesting serves in antique milk bottles, enamel mugs or tin cups. Also on offer is the full range of craft beers from Redchurch Brewery and a wine list.

A turn away from the typical DJ bars of Dalston, Ruby's is just for sitting down with some well-made cocktails. Usually busy and always with a gentle buzz of conversation the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, but book ahead. No food.