The Otherist (Bar, Restaurant)

Top 10 things to know about The Otherist:

1) It has two entrances - one at each end - so don’t spend five minutes furiously WhatsApping, “I’m here. Yes, YES. I'm standing at the front!” Maybe just meet at the bar for a smooth start.

2) You won’t find boards chalked up with “free shot Thursday” or “2-4-1” bribes. Instead, expect value for money. Quality cocktails on the right side of a tenner; rarer than a hen’s tooth these days. The Floral Fusion and the Seasonal Gimlet come highly recommended.

3) It’s more feet up than knees up. Hot water bottles, blankets and candles - hygge achieved. With a pleasing absence of City chat; no talk of numbers or negotiations drifting in the air. You can put the working day behind you and relax.

4) It’s a fresh, neutral coloured space, dotted with copper vases, glass lamps and cushions; a great place to meet friends and a winner on the understated-date-destination list.

5) They have a brilliant food menu for all levels of hunger. The halloumi burger is a triumph and if you have a taste for it, the truffle chips will bring a tear of joy to your eye. On a healthier note, the grilled salmon is restaurant standard and a sure catch, dish and pick of the day.

6) The starters are big in size and taste, particularly the chicken satay and the wild mushroom bruschetta. If you can squeeze one in, the chocolate brownie or pecan tart are leaders of the pudding pack. Look out for the three-course set menu for just £25: wondrous value!

7)  A shout out to the lovely staff - appearing at all the right times and suggesting all the rights things to eat, drink and even think - there to help you unwind and take the London weight off your shoulders.

8) As it’s part of the Drake and Morgan family, quality is assured. They’re on top of trends and in the mix with new drinks, fresh concoctions and a changing food menu. Cocktail masterclasses are also on offer, lead by mixologists with top tipple knowledge.

9) Trust them on wines. The beautifully sleek bar is lined with bottle after bottle and hemmed with hanging glasses. Wine lovers unite and pull up a stool.

10) “Eat Beautifully, Drink Happily, Live Completely” - their motto says. I’ll vouch for that....read more