Five of the Best – Cocktail Bars.
With summer at high season, it’s time to bring some variety into your drinking habits – endless crates of Fosters simply won’t do after a while. Rachael Hutchings looks at some of the best cocktail bars in Wales.
The Pod
Located on the banks of the River Usk, The Pod boasts a unique atmosphere with gritty, modern interior design, encouraging the guests to feel like they’re in any city in the world. The cocktail menu changes weekly and the staff are trained to match your tipple to whatever bite to eat you decide on, offering over 80 different types of spirit!
Rodney Rd, Newport
01633 535440 / www.thepodnewport.co.uk
The Dead Canary
Hidden away behind the juggernaut that is St David’s, this award-winning cocktail bar is one of Cardiff’s best kept secrets and is home to some of South Wales’ most talented mixologists. Whatever wets your whistle, this place offers remarkable masterclasses in which you can explore the history of the finest spirits and get to taste them too, with two-hour gin, rum or whiskey experiences available for £40, complete with suave canapes.
Barrack Lane, Cardiff
029 2023 1263 / www.thedeadcanary.co.uk
Kon Tiki
This one comes highly recommended by locals and students alike. This casual yet funky little haunt located in Swansea’s Strand offers beautifully crafted classics such as super fruity daquiris and plenty of deals and offers for the thrifty amongst us. With reggae nights and tropical live music vibes that often party on until 6am, Kon Tiki is perfect for celebrations and letting your hair down.
Strand, Swansea
01792 462896
Lab 22
Described as a ‘prevalence between the different and daring’, Lab 22 constantly pushes the boundaries that have been set by modern mixology and the popularity of proper cocktails. Their selection of house cocktails is known collectively as ‘Discovery and Progress’, with a periodic table-themed description list designed to allow guests to choose which drink is right for them. The ideal place to venture if you fancy something clever.
Caroline Street, Cardiff
029 2039 9997 / www.lab22cardiff.com
La Trattoria Gin Bar
Based above the very popular and delicious Italian restaurant, La Trattoria’s upstairs gin bar is authentic, attractive and exquisite in quality. A real out-of-town gem offering a fantastic range of gins from all over the world, from contemporary Turkish Delight and Parma Violet flavours to more toned-down leafy strawberry, all married with the perfect tonic.
Talbot Rd, Pontyclun
01443 223399 / www.trattoria.co.uk