WHAT TO DRINK IN EAST LONDON
Photo by Iman Alem
One might call Aaron Christian a Jack of All Trades. Formally, he is a founder, producer, director, filmmaker, writer and podcast host. Aaron got his name in the game when he launched a men’s style blog called Individualism. From there, he was recruited by MR PORTER to launch its film department as a senior video editor. Fast forward to today, Aaron is the director and producer at his video content firm AC STUDIOS. Names like Burberry, Armani, Levi’s and Uber are not rarities on his studio’s client roster. His progressive thinking and ultra inclusive mindset draw in these luxury brands wanting to be part of his firm’s filmmaking innovations.
Aaron aims to celebrate the stories of those whose voices aren’t usually heard. To support this mission, he founded The Asian Man, an online community that connects and salutes fashion-forward South Asian men. His podcast, What is this behavior?, is a discussion between three South Asians and their guests trying to break negative cultural stereotypes. For someone with such eclectic involvement, it may not surprise you that Aaron is an avid hobbyist. His most recent expedition? The world of craft cocktails.
“I’d like to state, that I only recently got into the world of spirits and cocktails. The love affair began while I was out in Tulum, Mexico during my honeymoon. It was the first time that I was exposed to artisanal Mexican Mezcal. The moment I tasted that wonderful smokey stuff I was hooked. Then as per all my hobbies, I went insanely geeky over it and began reading and watching everything I could about mixology and the liquor industry.
Being born and raised in East London I realised I was super lucky to actually have some of the world’s most innovative bars right on my doorstep. So hence why I wanted to put this list together. I hope you find it useful, cheers!”
"Tayer + Elementary is a world renowned bar that has extremely high standards. The team behind the bar is always looking to improve their menu and offerings. The menu changes every single day so you will always get a chance to experience something different."
"My memories from Looking Glass Cocktail Club can be a bit hazy (as bars can be depending on what type of night it ends up being). The fact that you have to get into the bar after pushing through a secret mirror only makes the experience even more interesting, especially if it’s the last bar on your run. Great for group nights out."
"Scout is the only place on my recommendation list that I haven't had a chance to visit yet. It has a more scientific philosophy and is one of the bars leading the way for sustainability within the mixology world."
"East London Liquor Company is actually walking distance from my home which is a very dangerous thing. It’s a bar, restaurant and a distillery where they are famous for their own branded gin. The actual bar is pretty spacious and they often have a BBQ in summer. Situated right across from Victoria Park, it's a great spot for summer drinks as well as cosy winter nightcaps when the season changes. Make sure you try some of their gin based delights."
"Tucked away in a basement in Hoxton Square, you can be forgiven for walking past Happiness Forgets even when you're on the lookout for it. The few times I've visited this place, I've always loved how intimate it is. I tend to pick a spot on the bar rather than a booth so I can get a chance to chat with the team behind the bar and learn more about the ingredients. It's also a great spot for an intimate date."
“Don't let the name put you off. Satan’s Whiskers is fantastic. Like many cocktails bars, it’s pretty hard to actually figure out that it's a bar from the outside. It has an amazing selection of cocktails only bettered by their dope Hip Hop soundtrack. For me personally that’s the perfect mix.”
"Found is a speakeasy in the heart of Shoreditch. My last visit here we were tucked away in a cute cove and managed to get through most of the menu. I’d definitely recommend their sours if that's your thing."
"Discount Suit Company is in a great space that most wouldn't have even thought of as a bar to set up shop in. Opened in January 2014 in a former suit tailor’s store room, the bar offers classically inspired cocktails, served to a soundtrack of Northern Soul and Vintage Rock n Roll. Try to get here early to get a better seat as it can get pretty busy. It's one of the bars you can actually book in advance so I'd recommend doing that."
"I first found out about Coupette from a small residency they had with Shoreditch House. Located on Bethnal Green road, it's a little bit of France tucked away in East London. It's voted one of the 50 best bars in the world. Small, intimate, with one of the best highballs I've ever tasted."
"Cecconi's isnt a specialised cocktail bar. It's an Italian restaurant part of the Soho House group. However, the vibe there is always great in the evenings and it's the perfect bar to start your crawl if it’s going to be a long night. They have an amazing bar menu (their Arancini's are perfect with your drinks) and I don't need to tell you they do a delicious Negroni."