The business world may have moved on from the fabled three-martini lunch and into an era where the suits take their alcohol in chain bars and strictly outside of office hours, but sometimes even city workers deserve a finely-crafted cocktail.
That, presumably, is the thinking behind Bar Three, the second bar from the celebrated Venning brothers, also known for Three Sheets on Kingsland Road.
Much like its older brother, Bar Three puts its eponymous numeral at the heart of what it does. The approachable menu lists three drinks in each of four categories ranging from ‘free’ for the non-drinkers through a ‘light’ section of low alcohol serves, to a punchier ‘medium’ range of martinis and spritzes and on to the brown-spirit-led ‘full’ flavour section.
Standouts include the bright and refreshing Tequila Highball made with Ocho blanco, green tea, petit grain, honey and soda; the curious Whisky + Milk featuring Woodford Reserve, milk-washed Earl Grey tea, and cedar; and the pair’s famous French 75 which gets its central London debut for those who have not yet been tempted out east to try it in its natural habitat.
Food comes from Blixen, the restaurant conveniently located upstairs, and is innovative and hearty with dishes such as chorizo bites and spiced lamb croquettes.
In a break from the triaphilia, the bar offers two spacious rooms; one buzzy and facing the bar with high stools and communal tables for those willing to perch; and a darker, more reserved back room with ferns, richly coloured wood panelling, secluded booths and a faint Marrakech vibe. The perfect spot to do business over a dry raspberry martini or three. It’s just a shame they don’t open for lunch, and all the city boys we could see were sticking to beer.
