On a Friday night I like to let my hair down after work and enjoy drinks with my friends. So on Friday evening I did just that and headed to Farringdon to see what Friday feelings it has to offer!
I had reserved a table at Grand Union bar, which is located in the midst of Smithfield market. I’ve seen Grand Union in Camden but had never actually been inside so this was my first time checking it out.
My table was right at the window which was great as I am a total people watcher! Surrounding us were paintings on the wall which give it an artistic feel. The walls are painted and sections have rose printed wallpaper in vibrant colours. Antique HUGE mirrors cover the walls also, giving the place a real flair!
The bar has a selection of deco, with beautifully decorated fans to compliment the paintings. Oh and a gold radiator- totally digging it!
We ordered a bottle of Sauvignon to have a good girly chat over. The bar has just recently gone under new management and the ethos is all about focusing on great service, bringing your drinks and food to you, which of course I do love! Throughout the night we were looked after by Rick the Sales Manager, very friendly and chatty, was a great way to get into the evening by having someone super helpful to make you feel relaxed.
I had just survived a massive lunch earlier in the day, so Anu and I decided to opt for some sharing bites between us.
I always love having bits and pieces as you can have a variety but it totally fills you up at the same time. We ordered some Spicy Meatballs in Tomato sauce, Fried Camembert Wedges with Mango Jam, Texan Chicken Strips with BBQ sauce and some chips. I’m not a massive cheese fan, but these wedges were great and the jam was such a good idea. We ended up ordering more chicken as they were really tasty!
Dessert was mango and passion fruit sorbet, delicious and tangy!
After food we decided to get some cocktails. We asked if we could go downstairs to the “Pleasure Rooms” don’t worry it’s NOT dodgy at all. But this is where you rent out a booth for more people, since there were only two of us we ended up with a massive booth to ourselves, awesome! Downstairs has the same feel as upstairs, with similar deco. What I hate about some city bars is the pretentiousness that they exude, but Grand Union has such a laid back atmosphere and the staff are all nice and friendly, plus the prices are pretty great too!
The booths feel a bit like underground bunkers but way bigger and decorated with paintings and lamp fixtures. I had a little bit of lamp love during dinner; check these antique style lampshades with crystals, kitsch cute!
Cocktails were great and the music was sure to get people dancing! The bar has a late license on Fri and Sat nights, so you really don’t need to leave.
I had a wicked time at Grand Union, great food, drinks and staff. Special mentions to Wesley the manager and Rick for helping us have a great evening to unwind too after a long week at work!
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