Speakeasies are spreading through London like the Plague. Hidden within other venues or behind unmarked doors, knowing where to find these secret bars will make you desirable, popular, admired – you name it.
Now, I’m a bit reticent to divulge my best secret. But it’s worth sharing; I know this place will fast become your trump card when it comes to choosing a hideaway for the evening.
Allow me to reveal to you, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town. The best bit? You get to enter through the Breakfast Club in Spitalfields, through a Smeg fridge. Cue customers of the restaurant looking slightly bemused as you utter in hushed tones to the waiter “a seat in the bar, please”, then disappear down a dark staircase. Some critics have picked holes, annoyed that it isn’t actually a real Smeg fridge. But who cares, it’s the thrill of knowing you hold classified information as to what lies behind it.
The interior is the epitome of cool. Dimmed lights, exposed brickwork and quirky decorations (a moose head and a portrait of the Queen with psychedelic glasses!) create a laid-back atmosphere without the pretension you sometimes get from these exclusive bars. The playlist varies but always inspires a bit of nostalgia.
As always, the best seat is at the bar, but fear not, table service means you won’t have to lift a finger wherever you sit. The staff couldn’t be friendlier and the barman is more than happy to go off-piste with the cocktail menu. The drinks are refreshingly original, particularly recommended are the Basil No Faulty and Rosie and Gin. Prices begin at about £8, but Happy Hour between 5pm – 6pm on Monday to Thursday is easier on the wallet with drinks at £5 a pop.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town is my go to place when I want to impress my friends and sip cocktails somewhere relaxed but trendy. Be warned; get there early on a weekend as waiting times for a seat can be up to half an hour. They also don’t take reservations, but it’s reasonably quiet during the week. Although the barman did say they are slowly getting busier as more and more people find out about this underground speakeasy.
Just make sure you keep your trump card close to your chest. This place is fast becoming my worst kept secret!