Tobacco infused cocktails at London’s liveliest bar – Barts

Tucked away inside Chelsea Cloisters in Sloane Avenue is possibly London’s liveliest bar – Barts! What a wonderful find – full of character and great cocktails.

Tuesday evening and the bar was packed with a vibrant mix of happy people and to top it all – live music!

Bart`s is certainly quirky – from the covert entrance (you buzz and are met by a pair of eyes through a peep-hole to confirm your booking) to the wonderful mix of regalia adorning every inch of the walls – you walk in and feel instantly relaxed. The staff add to the atmosphere, great personalities and very good service. All of the tables were reserved, a sign that the Bart`s `in-crowd` know a good bar to return to.

We had the pleasure of tasting their newly launched tobacco infused cocktails made with Perique Tobacco Liqueur, made by artisans from the rarest tobacco in the world: Louisiana Perique. It contains the aroma but none of the health issues associated with it`s traditional use. The mixologist gave us a little taster of the Perique so that we would understand the underlying kick in each cocktail – quite a strong flavour with a wonderfully smooth aftertaste.

The Holy Smoke – A deliciously aromatic mix of Perique, Hennessey VS, Havana Club 7 YO and vanilla syrup: the mix of the Perique and Hennessey was awesome – this really is for grown ups! Smooth but with a real kick, served with lots if ice and a chunk of lemon skin.

The Cig`nature – A smooth mix of Perique, Lindisfarne Mead, Lemon juice and Perrier Jouet Champagne: this cocktail was tangy and really refreshing. I could easily drink this one all evening!

In Vogue – A classy combination of Perique, Sauza Hornitos Tequila, Raspberry Puree, Gomme Syrup and Créme de Framboise: this went down a real treat – ten out of ten for presentation and taste. A fabulous rich raspberry colour with a wonderfully smooth texture – topped with fresh raspberries, divine!

Following the tobacco infused cocktails my friend tried the Pink Flapper – a nice sharp taste of the grapefruit, then softened by the agave syrup – it went down very smoothly.

We ordered from the small but perfectly formed snacks and sharing menu: home-made sausage rolls, spring rolls with sweet chilli sauce and scotch quails eggs all went down a treat. Also available were cheese and charcuterie dishes, all very reasonably priced.

Apart from the tobacco infused cocktails, the drinks menu is interesting and varied – everything from house cocktails to classic cocktails, spirits, champagne, wine and beers – there is certainly something for everyone.

A truly special little bar with a great atmosphere and great cocktails – all rounded off with great live music – the perfect evening!