The Book Club

I took a friend who absolutely hates Shoreditch to The Book Club recently. This is one of the area's most popular bars, and I for one really like it - pretentious ping pong table and all! My friend was hilariously scathing about every part of it - "is this a bar or a common room?!" - and tutted at the abundance of brogues, neon nail polish, and what she called 'planks of wood' to sit on. 

Even the cocktails were mocked. With names like Gingers Do It Better, and Shoreditch Twat, this was regarded as a lame attempt at self-referential humour. They have some nice flavours, but are very weak as cocktails go. For the same price you can get a double and mixer, which hits the spot. I recommend the Four Roses Bourbon with lemonade.

But wait, what's this? Something my Shoreditch-hating pal liked? The scrumptious food, that's what! We shared a vegetarian platter which was just divine - halloumi, cous cous, garlic bread, guacamole, veggies and olives - yum! We also had cajun potato wedges which came with sour cream, melted cheese, and a spicy syrup. I like The Book Club, they have some good events, and downstairs they often have a DJ or some kind of shenanigans. And everyone will play the ping pong eventually, especially once the Four Roses starts flowing...