Village East closed permanently in August 2019
Revamped in 2014, the lounge bar at this Bermondsey Street early adopter is still worth a punt. The laid-back room feels like a modern set for a remake of 1980s Boston-based sitcom, Cheers. For £8.50 you can choose from barrel-aged Martinez and Smoker’s Delight (a sophisticated ménage of Arette reposado Tequila, Ardbeg whisky, Amontillado sherry, chestnut liqueur and orange bitters); sours such as Love Herbs (Tanqueray gin, Kümmel and violette) and Gelato (Stoli vodka, limoncello and pistachio). Look into the house Lagerita and have fun with the Pink Panther (a Havana rum, lemon and pink peppercorn Highball). With Brewdog, Kernel and Redchurch among the beers, wine from £4.50, organic cider, and snacks of lobster croquettes, salmon rillettes, salt-baked beetroot, or courgette and ricotta rolls (£7.50) – there are good reasons to join the Village people.