In Three Words: Swish, Sumptuous, Splendid
The Lowdown: Bristol is a city renowned for its laid back approach to drinking – its pubs and vibrant harbor-side; the cider; the great music scene. But scratch the surface and you actually find that there’s a very serious cocktail culture. Ali Reynolds, UK winner of Diagio First Class, cut his teeth in a Brizzle bar, and there are a fair few superior haunts dotted throughout the city. One of these is undoubtedly the famous Milk Thistle.
Milk Thistle is the ‘little sister’ of Hyde Bar, and both are paradigms of that popular bar concept, the Speakeasy. They are for the kind of sippers that know their cocktails and appreciate quality in the mixed libations, so therefore haven’t made the bars the easiest place to happen across. One needs to have a knowledge as to the location, or there’s a chance of walking right past the black door – all that alerts you of its presence is a bell and the wordless thistle sign…
Your Plus One: Bring your friend who’s a bit of a Boardwalk Empire fan, or loves the idea of secret trysts in country houses – a visit here feels like taking a step towards your decadent side.
The Decor: A gentleman’s lodging with a touch of whimsy seems to be the theme– and is pulled off with flair and success. A giant moose-head is resplendent on one wall; there’s a gramophone and records; and a cabinet of exciting curiosities. Oxblood leather seating, dark painted walls and a chessboard-tiled floor add suave style.
Ambience: Milk Thistle is smaller than your average bar, and therefore has a much more intimate feeling. Because of the need to ring the bell and be granted access then it means ‘unsavoury’ types aren’t allowed in, and there’s the ambience of being part of some wonderful boozy secret.
Cocktail Highlights: The bartenders make the best of seasonal ingredients, meaning the menu is subject to change (always look out for the specials on the board) but there are a few things that stand out on the list. The Milk Thistle Daisy is a fresh and frivolous mixture of Tanqueray gin, spiced pear syrup, lemon juice and fizz, while we were pleased to see the use of local produce in the Long Walk Home (Somerset cider, mmm) and the Plum Bum – a punchy combination of strong Bulliet rye whiskey, sweet plum syrup, and Somerset Pomona. This latter ingredient is a secret blend of juice and Cider Brandy – kind of like a sweet sherry, it gave the cocktail a fabulous richness. A superb Manhattan proved they can do the classics just as adeptly, while if there’s a group of you it’s definitely a good idea to try one of their Milk Thistle punches.
Burning a Hole? Cocktails in Milk Thistle rarely exceed a tenner – ah, the joys of drinking out of London! For the quality and atmosphere this is certainly a steal.
Overall: Milk Thistle is touted as a ‘drinking venue for the discerning drinker’, and this is certainly pulled off with aplomb. The pure theatre of ringing the bell, being granted entry by one of the dapper staff, and then finding somewhere to perch amongst the curiosities means you’re enjoying the night before you even sip a drink. And when you do, the strength and flavour combinations assure that you’ve come to the right place. It may have a prickly name and be hard to find, but it’s worth seeking out this Speakeasy for a superior drinking experience.
@themilkthistle