PURL - Speakeasy Cocktail Bar

purl1 n. A drink, of which beer is the principal ingredient, defined about 1815 as hot beer mixed with gin: same as Dogs Nose; in later times, a stimulating mixture of beer, gin, sugar, and ginger. It was, before coffee and tea were used, commonly made to be drunk in the morning, and hence the liquor is called early purl.

Tucked away in the undergrounds of Marylebone, is a cosy little time warp called PURL.

Stepping inside is like stepping back in time to the days of horse and carts and jack the ripper. The ‘Speakeasy’ theme means its discreet location and lack of street presence makes for an authentic experience of old school drinking. A single swing sign sits at street level indicating that a drinking hole lies beneath. 

Based in a cellar there are several original alcoves as well as couch seating and stools at the bar. The 1920’s theme is consistent throughout this cosy venue with victorian decor and antique-style chandeliers.

Every cocktail at PURL tells a story. Set up by the mixologists of Fluid Movement these guys use Liquid nitrogen, helium balloons, scientific tools and other creative aspects to make your drinking experience almost theatrical.

Greeted in true English style with a erlenmeyer flask of water and some cucumber sarnies even the staff are dressed in the wardrobe from the set of Sherlock Holmes.

Cocktail prices range from £9 to £12 and they also stock beers and wine.
Snacks consist of (excluding the standard welcome sandwich) meat & cheese boards as well as good, old, American hot dogs.

I can recommend the Ball point Fizz. It was delicious. It comes with 4 pipets of different flavoured vodka and you add to your own preference. Have a look on their website for their drinks menu, which changes seasonally. 

It’s a great place if you are looking for something a little more intimate and different and it’s perfect for a first date, classy and not crowded. Booking is recommended though as space is limited.

Drink and Enjoy!

Jus

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