The perfect antidote to all the overcrowded West End bars and flashy nightclubs, Nightjar in Shoreditch continues to be the favourite place for discerning drinkers. Nightjar is the ultimate speakeasy bar, transporting you to 1920’s America. Linger and relax amidst the candlelit tables and indulge in one of the bar’s glorious tin cup cocktails. The joint is jumping with the music of several high-calibre jazz and swing bands.
Nightjar is a multi-award-winning bar and music venue. It serves well-crafted cocktails and mouth-watering tapas. Its website boasts that it is a ‘hidden slice of old-school glamour on the fringes of Shoreditch.’ The vintage spirits are delectable.
The cocktails fall into categories with witty and quirky titles. Sample the ‘Pre-prohibition 1600-1918 ancient recipes and early classics’, such as the ‘Eye opener’ and ‘Tickle my fancy.’ ‘Prohibition 1918-1932′ are ‘cocktails for a desperate time’: two of the best are the ‘Cote d’Emeraude’ and ‘Ampicillin.’
Once there, you will lose yourself in the rhythms and melodies of lively jazz, blues, swing and jaunty ragtime. Band sets are 45 minutes long and serious music-lovers flock to hear them from far and wide.
Not to be missed on 21st August (9-11pm) is a show by Ray Wallen and his band – Dust Me Down Blues. Ray is a blues singer and harmonica player from London. This performance will blow your socks off as Wallen’s expressive vocals, charisma and stage presence combine. His guitar player, Davide Mazzantini, is tasteful and stylish. There is no doubt that you will be smitten with this acoustic duo. Their music has an irresistible range of influences, from Delta and Chicago Blues, to roots and old gospel sonorities.
So, you really must try this bar, which promises to ‘recall the gentlemen of other days, who made drinking one of the pleasures of life – not one of its evils.’ You won’t be disappointed if you make it to this vibrant vintage bar tonight!
Nightjar
129 City Rd, London EC1V 1JB
Open 6pm until late.
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