I know this isn't technically fashion or beauty, but it's so damn wonderful I had to share it with you all somehow.
Shortly before Christmas I stumbled across what is sure to become a new gem on London's cocktail circuit. A stone's throw from Euston, The Cosy Kettle is a new establishment that recently opened its doors in the basement of popular pub The Somers Town Coffee House.
An antidote to the pretentiously poseurish cocktail bars of the City, The Cosy Kettle is a pleasant change. Cosy by name, cosy by nature; think sofas, wonky bookshelves piled with knick knacks and soft lighting. The whole premise of it is to offer delicious cocktails, both classics and new creations, in a friendly, homely environment, for those who want a decent drink without having to battle through a crowd of banker types and girls in too-short dresses whilst trying to hear the barman shout over pounding rubbish club music.
The main selling point, however, is the fact that The Cosy Kettle has a secret weapon up its sleeve; it matches cocktails to cake. I know. Why has it not been done before? At the moment an introductory menu is on offer but come Spring a whole host of new creations will be available. I sampled the Battenburg cocktail (pictured) and damn was it tasty...
Two small bottles are presented to you ready to mix yourself; one containing vodka, chambord and cranberry juice, the other amaretto, apricot liqueur and a dash of mineral water. You're encouraged to take a sip and follow immediately with a bite of cake; it's amazing. It tastes just like real Battenburg. So much so that both the cocktail and the cake disappeared a bit too quickly and I was left somewhat disappointed that it was all over.
Other treats on the menu include classic drinks such as Mojitos and Old Fashioneds, and new spins such as An Apple A Day (dangerously refreshing vodka, frangelico, apple juice and cinnamon) or a Lynchburg Lemonade (Jack Daniels, Cointreau, lemon juice, lemonade). Also worth noting are the shooters; I may be tempted by a Banana Split (creme de banane, Kahlua & cream) when I undoubtedly return...
The Cosy Kettle at The Somers Town Coffee House, 60 Chalton Street, Euston, London, NW1 1HS. www.thesomerstowncoffeehouse.co.uk
Love Laurel x
