Uncovering London’s Cocktail Renaissance
Ah, London – the land of perpetual rain, questionable cuisine, and a pub on every corner. Or is it? You see, I’ve recently discovered that this historic city has undergone something of a liquid revolution. Gone are the days of watered-down lagers and tepid gin and tonics. In their place, a new breed of cocktail connoisseurs have taken over, shaking, stirring, and muddling their way to mixology mastery.
It all started when I stumbled upon Smugglers Cove – a San Francisco institution that has established itself as one of the top rum and exotic cocktail destinations in the world. The owner, Martin Cate, is a true pioneer in the craft cocktail movement, and his knowledge and passion for rum is unparalleled. I knew I had to visit his London counterpart and embark on a craft cocktail crawl of my own.
Stepping Into Smugglers Cove London
As I approach the unassuming entrance of Smugglers Cove London, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement. This place is clearly not your average pub. The stunning interior, designed by the legendary Ignacio Notch Gonzalez, transports me to a different era – one of vintage tiki artifacts, historic nautical decor, and a dramatic, inviting atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling streets outside.
But it’s not just the ambiance that sets Smugglers Cove apart. The sheer breadth of their rum selection is staggering – over 550 varieties at any given time, with more than 800 having passed through their doors since opening. From rare and vintage offerings to exclusive, handcrafted rums made just for them, this place is a rum lover’s paradise.
As I settle into a cozy corner, I’m greeted by a knowledgeable bartender who immediately begins to school me on the fascinating world of rum. Apparently, this spirit is produced in at least 60 countries, using different raw materials, stills, and aging processes. Smugglers Cove has built a tight-knit community of rum aficionados through their Rumbustion Society, and they’re eager to share their passion with all who enter.
Exotic Cocktails and Unexpected Flavors
Of course, it’s not just rum that takes center stage here. Smugglers Cove is also renowned for its innovative approach to cocktails, with a menu that spans over three centuries of rum history. From historic colonial tavern tipples to modern, sophisticated libations, every drink is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail.
I start my journey with the Castle Black – a vibrant concoction that combines two types of 10-year-old scotch, Amaro Lucano, black pepper, and citrus bitters. The smokiness of the scotch is beautifully complemented by the pepper, while the citrus adds a refreshing brightness. It’s a surprisingly complex and well-balanced cocktail that has me intrigued for more.
Trusting the bartender’s expertise, I then opt for the “bartender’s choice” option, expressing a preference for bourbon. What arrives is a creative variation on a Manhattan, combining Evan Williams Single Barrel bourbon, Amaro CioCiaro, maraschino liqueur, and angostura bitters. The bold, deep sweetness with distinct orange notes from the amaro is an absolute delight.
Feeling adventurous, I next order the Mousse with the Fir – a delightful concoction of St. George’s Terroir gin, Pampelmousse grapefruit liqueur, black pepper, lemon, and mint. The complex blend of herbs and botanicals is perfectly balanced, with just a hint of sweetness.
As I sip on these innovative libations, I can’t help but be impressed by the level of craftsmanship and creativity on display. It’s clear that the team at Smugglers Cove is not only passionate about rum but also dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what a cocktail can be.
A Culinary Complement
Of course, no visit to a top-notch establishment like Smugglers Cove would be complete without indulging in some equally impressive food. The menu features a selection of shareable, inventive dishes that are the perfect complement to the exceptional cocktails.
I opt for the charred octopus, served with hush puppies, smoked aioli, and a spicy chorizo salsa verde. The flavors and textures are simply sublime, and I find myself wishing I had more than one stomach to sample the rest of the menu.
As my final drink of the evening, I defer once again to the bartender’s expertise. This time, I’m treated to a potent concoction made with Appleton dark rum, silver rum, maraschino liqueur, and Cocchi Americano vermouth. The balance of strong, sweet, and herbal notes creates a surprisingly smooth and satisfying finish to a truly remarkable evening.
Elevating the Cocktail Experience
As I make my way back out into the bustling streets of London, I can’t help but reflect on the experience I’ve just had. Smugglers Cove is not just a bar – it’s a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.
Unlike some establishments that prioritize style over substance, Smugglers Cove uses its unique, speakeasy-inspired setting as a means to elevate the cocktail experience. The focus is squarely on the drinks and the talented, attentive staff who craft them. There’s no need for gimmicks or passwords – just a commitment to creating exceptional libations that will leave a lasting impression.
And so, with a newfound appreciation for the art of mixology, I set out to continue my craft cocktail crawl, eager to uncover more of London’s hidden gems. Who knows what other delightful surprises this city has in store?
One thing’s for sure: I’ll never look at a simple rum and Coke the same way again. Cheers!
