Happiness Forgets

The menu at this semi-clandestine dive on the site of the short-lived QT promises ‘mixed drinks & mischief’ – although in always-hip Hoxton Square that’s a given. Set to a juicy soundtrack, the neo-Dickensian candlelit cellar is cosy & conspiratorial, with a drinks selection that casts its net wide. The wine list includes over dozen by the glass, while Meantime Union amber lager heads the beer selection. HF’s bartenders are also capable of handling most cocktail requests, but top of the signature tipples are ‘19th century’ (Talisker, Lillet rouge, cacao & lemon), ’tantris sidecar’ (Cognac, Calvados, chartreuse. triple sec, lemon & pineapple juice) & ‘old Cuban’ (a Havana Club Champagne mojito at £8). After that lot, happiness is assured – even if you forget the evening’s finer details come dawn.