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Totally in accord with this Simon! We have always loved a good cocktail, covid led us to stock up hugely with ingredients and branch out at home (thanks to this website mainly) and we now have a changing "cocktail menu" of our own on the fridge! But...to your point, when going out the treats for us are fine glassware, bar staff who make crafted cocktails from memory, garnishes and atmosphere... all of which make a good bar into a great one.

I have a well stocked home bar and have made 100s of classic cocktails for myself and others. Yet when I go into a bar I seem to be at a loss for what I want without a menu. It is comforting to see that an expert like Simon likes a menu as well. It is nice to have this visual cue to help navigate all the cocktails that may be floating in one's head. I agree with all of the above.

Just one more comment... Satan's Whiskers is an amazing bar and Ollie is a credit to the industry. I first met him in the Discount Suit Company c. 2017. Having an amazing, engaging and talented bartender/server completely transforms the experience.

#1 Hospitality: A warm welcome, glass of water and brief but friendly introduction to the menu.
#2 Drinks: Agree with well curated classics with bespoke specials. Some menus with only bespoke drinks may not cover everyone for more than one drink or maybe intimidating to newcomers. Also many bespoke menus don't change for awhile preventing return visits. Menus should indicate serving, strength and flavour profile, not just ingredients. Glassware and ice are very important.

Popped into Satan Whiskers a few months ago and really loved the vibe there. On my 'to return to' list.

In any bar with the 14 cocktails on the menu above, I think I would always be able to choose a drink that suits my mood. What a skillfully compiled list!

I don't imagine you will have many who disagree with your points. To draw an analogy with wine menus, there is nothing more annoying than being given an elephant folio listing hundreds of wines. The most useful list a few and categorize by style, e.g. fruity, light, etc. Classifying cocktails as sour, sweet, boozy, etc. as you do on this website informs my choice of cocktail and would so do in a bar.