Having long ruled Camden and even London as quite possibly the best Caribbean bar and restaurant in town, the joint has opened a second outfit in Exmouth Market. So how does it compare to the original?
They say:
The Guardian’s The Guide: “Those not tickled by the sticky cocktails will find solace in the impressive 150 strong rum collection.”
Time Out: "Many people flocking here for the basement bar, where food is served to the beat of rare grooves into the early hours.”
We say:
This is a place which is tested by the age old adage of how you follow after you’ve succeeded the very first time. In other words, the Camden site may be a sure fire hit, but this an almost there but not quite!
But let’s get the plus point out of the way first. At the downstairs bar – known as the Rum Jungle, there are some pretty hefty and attractive cocktails – ranging in price from £3.95 - £6.95 - that you wouldn’t want to miss out on. Cotton’s has long been known for its 200 bottle rum collection and at this new branch there are some 300 to boot.
Try the potent ‘Killer Doppi’ with four different rums, apricot liqueur, blue curacao and pineapple juice, or the cracking ‘Cottons Punch’ with Wray & Nephew overproof rum with orange, guava, pineapple juice, grenadine and a Woods 100 dark rum float.
This is just some of the decent stuff and the unpretentious surroundings with a mellow vibe make it a fine place to while away the hours. The only duff note comes from the food side – mains being around £11.50 - £13.50.
There are all the Caribbean favourites here such as jerk chicken, goat curry and saltfish fritters, but somehow the standard just isn’t up to par with the original. Never mind, just go for the drinks.
ADDRESS
70 Exmouth Market
Islington
London
EC1R
tel, 020 833 3332
POSTED...
Wed 28 Jun 2006 at 8:49am
