No.32 The Old Town

Seasoned Londoners will know all about the famous North/South divide. Depending on the postcode you live in then you often have very strident views on where is best to spend time, and I find it usually equates to the first place you really settled.

I’m a Southerner all the way, having first alighted in Clapham many years ago, and although I no longer live there it’s still fairly local and it has a very special place in my heart.

So okay, maybe I’m biased, but I think Clapham is just lovely. Parts don’t even feel like you’re in London – there’s a bit of a village-y aspect to it, and nowhere more so than Old Town. With the rustic pubs, quaint stores and unique eateries, then I think even hardened Camden dwellers couldn’t fail to appreciate it.

So I am thrilled at the new arrival, No 32 The Old Town. It’s taken over the space of The Frog sports bar, and now what used to be a slightly incongruous blot on the charming strip of The Pavement has been transformed into a stylish and exciting oasis for eating, drinking and catching rays. The outdoor space is probably one of the nicest in the area, and further increases the feeling of holiday-relaxation.

We visited on a Tuesday night, when it was already bustling. Downstairs has a prominent, well stocked bar and long communal table, as well as a bistro-esque feel with the cherry red booths and an open kitchen. Then upstairs there is more of a Member’s Club feel, with peacock blue velvet couches and armchairs. This is where doors lead out to that lovely terrace – all white-washed decking, olive trees and strands of lights that, come sun-down, will no doubt bring a sense of twinkling, magical festivity.

So, despite it being definitely the tail end of spring rather than the beginning of summer, we headed straight for a bench. And we weren’t the only ones – two chaps sat under the heaters drinking pints; a group of ladies shared prosecco at one of the tables near the edge; an older couple with impeccable dress sense sipped wine. Obviously this place, which has been open for almost exactly a year – has become a popular place.

But we were here for the cocktails, and for good reason. The list is something to get very excited about, and I am someone who seems a far few cocktail lists! The kind of list where a casual scan suddenly makes you stop, take stock, and re-read more carefully as a selection of drinks spring out.

Tequila Old Fashioned… Bourbon Blazer… Prescription Julep…

We decided to start with something fizzy as we were celebrating a birthday (this is the ideal place to come, FYI). We eschewed the standard Bellini for drinks with more pizazz, and the ideal candidates were the Marmalade Champagne Cocktail and the rather bonkers sounding Dr Elmegirab.

This latter concoction arrived in a flute – sparkling like golden sunlight, with a sugar cube soaked in Elmegirab’s Teapot Bitters fizzing in the bottom. It was this that gave a slightly fragrant, delicate addition to the depth and complexity of Courvoisier Cognac topped with Justerini & Brooks Sarcey Champagne. Absolutely delicious, tingling on the tongue, and filling the mouth with dancing sunshine.

The Marmalade cocktail was a revelation. I’d had concerns it might be too sweet, but a sharp citrus edge of fresh lemon balanced the marmalade vodka and the bubbles masterfully. It made for a drink that zinged with utter refreshment.

Next up I went for the Plum Sour – it was the house-made caramelised plum syrup that clinched it, and the fact I love bourbon. It turned out to be a winning combo – all one could want from a sour. Mouth puckering yet smooth, with a fruity pop of plum.

The stand out cocktail was probably the Old, Old Fashioned – A mixture of Ron Zacapa Centenario 23 year old, plum syrup, plus chocolate and orange bitters.  I love Zacapa – for those not in know it’s a premium rum, and is made using the concentrated first-pressing sugar cane juice, called “virgin sugar cane honey”. It makes for a richer, smoother finish, and gave the shining amber drink a wow factor.

For those that might want a bite, No. 32 The Old Town also have wonderful nibbles – we shared an array. Definitely try the mini sausages in their honey glazing and onion caramel, and a light but vibrantly flavoured dish of beef Carpaccio with toasted pine nuts and artichoke. A bit lighter was the avocado salad. More substantial dishes include a burger, lamb rump, and sea bass.

I would love to come again and work my way through the rest of the cocktail menu, as well as give the delicious sounding brunch a go. Plus, who am I kidding – I just want to bathe in the sun on that roof terrace, feel the stresses of the day drift away, and soak up the style of South London.

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