The Filthy Thirteen

Address: 208 Cheltenham Rd, BS6 5QU, United Kingdom
Door: Go early
Style: Cocktail bar

Review

For a bar with a name like The Filthy Thirteen, this haunt is actually a very charming affair and a bright beacon in Bristol’s cocktail scene. From the team behind HMSS comes a superb neighbourhood bar on Cheltenham Road. Taking its name from WWII’s infamous Dirty Dozen, this bar stands out just like the misfit bunch.

Packed with character, the bar spreads over two rooms and garden area – it’s a large bar space which doesn’t intimidate. The front of the bar is decked out with leather high stools and tables with plenty of room to sit at the bar. Low seating in the back offers a contrasted, intimate mood. Smart, retro artwork acquired locally or inspired by the local area adorn the walls and bespoke wallpaper etched with the XIII logo adds an extra touch of personality.

The bar has attitude. Cocktails are interesting, extravagant, and very well-balanced. The talent behind the bar shines through. High-ceiling shelves are jam-packed with collectibles and mementos dating back to earlier years, from F.R.I.E.N.D.S VHS tapes and Stretch Armstrong, to troll dolls and boxing gloves. There are youthful relics everywhere, but you’ll feel right at home.

Despite its name, The Filthy Thirteen is actually a very clean, polished drinking spot that you’ll never want to leave.