[title]
It’s finally April, the sun’s made a few brief appearances and the daffodils will soon be in full bloom. It's time to stop and smell the flowers at these fine boozers serving some pretty epic blossom-based cocktails.
Nightjar
Nightjar is known for its highly experimental drinks list and many bar-infused spirits. Those hoping to go wild should aim for the Amsterdam Cocktail – a bold mix of tulip essence, poppy (so far, so floral) and – wait for it – gouda cheese foam. This concoction is held together with vodka, ale and hemp syrup, Grand Marnier liqueur and lemon. £9 per person, minimum serving two. 129 City Rd, London EC1V 1JB.
Barsmith
Farringdon-based Barsmith infuses its own botanical, plant, fruit and spice spirits. Go for the ‘nectarine elderflower’, which is used in the Basil Fawlty (ba-dum tsh!), a mix of dry gin, cranberry, lemon and basil, and the Bellini Flower, a combination of peach purée, stone fruit bitters and prosecco. All cocktails £8.95. 18-20 St John Street, Farringdon, EC1M 4AY.
69 Colebrooke Row
Located in Islington, 69 Colebrooke Row favours short and snappy combinations on the most part. Of the florals on offer, you’d be well served picking the Black Rose – black rose liqueur and champagne — or the Silent Neon Flower, which brings together gin, ambrette seeds and jasmine. £10.50 each. 69 Colebrooke Row, N1 8AF.
Craft London
Stevie Parle and Tom Dixon’s Craft London has a big focus on local, expertly produced ingredients.The Lavender Airmail combines lavender with prosecco, rum and its own 'SE10' honey, which is produced on site. There's also the More Please, which puts gin together with more honey, egg white and chamomile-infused apricot. £10 and £9 respectively. 1 Green Place, SE10 0PE.
Worship Street Whistling Shop
With a menu that's built around the four elements – earth, wind, fire and water – this Shoreditch bar likes a bit of high-tech booze creation. Serenader’s Special combines Johnnie Walker Black Label with jasmine moscatel sherry wine, chamomile and blueberry paint. Two blooms for the price of one. £9. 63 Worship Street, EC2A 2DU.