Gaucho, City

Words by Jane Ryan

Address: 1 Bell Inn Yard, London, EC3V 0BL, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)20 7626 5180
Website: view Gaucho, City’s website
Door: Open door
Style: Cocktail bar
Food: Tapas/plates & dishes

Review

Ostensibly an Argentinian steak restaurant chain, Gaucho also features decent cocktail bars in practically all its venues and this City space is no exception. Its city locale, located in a basement site with the familiar cow hide and polished black marble decor, boasts a bar with seating for ten or twelve. Dark surrounds contribute to a relaxed mood.

At first glance the menu might seem to be focused on vodka and gin and few dark spirits, but upon closer inspection the drinks in fact punch far above their weight and include some serious mixed drinks with grown-up flavour profiles and an interesting line in wine-based cocktails in keeping with its Argentine roots. On our last visit drinks we tried at both ends of the spectrum (from long and fruity to short and spirituous) came well-balanced and even the former packed a punch.

Our Piola (vodka, lemon, lime and orange juice and mint served straight up) was stronger than it sounded and a classic Hanky Panky was predictably bracing. Staff here went above and beyond, recommending tasty accompanying morsels and showcasing an excellent spirit knowledge. A cosy, quiet venue for a mid-week cocktail.