I feel so spoilt in London when it comes to quality cocktails, so when my taste buds feel educated to a new degree I feel inclined to shout about it. TT Liquor is the place, discretely positioned the Shoreditch end of Kingsland Road, and it’s only a matter of time until it’s stalked by every local or cocktail fanatic in London.
TT Liquor is a many-sided venue set across three floors; the project boasts a specialist liquor store and an intimate subterranean cocktail bar focusing on ‘tasting experiences’. Uniquely, padlocked ‘Members Boxes’ are soon to become available for hire to allow guests to keep private liquor collections at the venue.
The final floor play host to TT Liquor’s signature cocktail making classes, experiences, and events. This attractive new opening is the latest project from Alastair Tatton and Stephen Thompson whose renowned creativity brings to life an innovative new East London ‘booze’ hub.
I spent my evening in their basement cocktail bar, a converted 19th century prison with private alcoves, dimly lit with exposed brick, dark tan leather upholstery, each table with an old Victorian water jug, almost too heavy to lift! The menu here comprises of four different ‘journeys’ each including four cocktails embodying a dedicated era.
Their expert mixologists guided us tentatively through the menu with non-pretentious poise. We commenced our tasting with The Madison, a salty cordichon vinegar based martini fusing Chase Vodka and Belsazar dry, served with cheese and meat slices on a toothpick, think a hydrating meal leaving you hungry for more!
We went a bit girlier with our flavors after that and delved into ‘Le Chat Noir’ absinthe drink with playful edible cat rice paper treats attached on the side and then The Toucan, a unique passion fruit centre cocktail combined Koko Kanu with milk powder and egg white, so light and refreshing.
On my way out, I couldn’t resist asking the dapper gentleman manning the ‘specialist’ liquor store to select me 3 of his favorite beers. I will return with a bigger bag next time as the store stock difficult-to-get-hold-of bottles and curated gift sets which combine the glassware, equipment and spirits used to make various classic cocktails or personalized favourites.
