Having called Stoke Newington home for over two decades, I've witnessed a few changes in the area. Known for its village-like charm and independent boutiques, this corner of North London is now experiencing a spirited renaissance, quite literally, with a proliferation of cocktail bars appearing along its bustling High Road.
So notable is this trend that the stretch has earned the nickname "the Mezcal Mile", in homage to the growing number of venues slinging the Mexican spirit. Yet mezcal is far from the only offering; whether your preference leans toward classic concoctions or more adventurous infusions, there is something to suit every palate.
In honour of London Cocktail Week, I have handpicked four standout bars that encapsulate the vibrancy and variety of Stoke Newington's evolving nightlife. Make sure you buy London Cocktail Week wristbands because these are not to be missed.
HIGH WATER LONDON
Going eight years strong, High Water is a Stokey institution. Open from 4:30pm until late, seven days a week, the bar offers more than 100 different liquor brands. No matter what time you join them, you're sure to find something to suit your taste. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just browsing for something new, you're in safe hands here. Nab a seat by the window for prime people-watching.
🍸 What to try during London Cocktail Week:
WOVEN AND OOLONG - £9
Woven Whisky, oolong tea cordial, orange bitters and soda water.
High Water London - 23 Stoke Newington Road, London, N16 8BJ
Website
https://highwaterlondon.com
PARASOL
From seasoned pros to the new kid on the block. Directly across the road from High Water, you'll find Parasol, a brand-new cocktail bar from the founders of The Sun Tavern and Discount Suit Company. Open Thursday to Saturday from 5pm to 2am, this basement bar and nightclub features a lineup of DJs playing 80s NYC style disco music until the early hours. Make sure you bring your dancing shoes.
🍸 What to try during London Cocktail Week:
UMBRELLA VESPER - £9
Grey Goose Vodka, Bombay Sapphire Gin, Kina L'Aéro d'Or and Vichy Catalan sparkling water.
Parasol - 36 Stoke Newington Road, London, N16 7XJ
Website
AS ABOVE, SO BELOW
Open Thursday from 5pm to 11:30pm and on Friday and Saturday from 5pm to 12:30am. As Above, So Below is located behind a secret door at Cuts & Bruises Barber Shop (yes, you read that right).
Once you've found the door, you'll be transported to a speakeasy-style bar playing old-school tunes. One word of caution: if you're planning to get your hair cut, it's best to do it before drinking their delicious range of cocktails.
🍸 What to try during London Cocktail Week:
LEMON BLUEBERRY TRIFLE - £9
Bourbon, blueberry, citric acid, Schweppes Tropical Soda and lemon mascarpone foam.
PENICILLIN HIGHBALL - £6 (NON-ALC)
Pathfinder Hemp Spirit, fig leaf, ginger and Schweppes Slimline Tonic Water.
As Above, So Below - Cuts and Bruises Barber Shop, 57 Stoke Newington High Street, London, N16 8EL
Website
https://www.cutsandbruisesbarbershop.com/aasb
DOÑA
I did mention at the start that Stoke Newington High Road has earned the nickname 'The Mezcal Mile', so it would be remiss of me not to include at least one mezcal bar. So here it is. Affectionately known as the Pink Palace, Doña makes an impression from the moment you walk through its sequin-covered door. The brainchild of founders Thea Cumming and Lucia Massey, Doña is run by an all-female bar team that puts creativity and individuality front and centre. Add mezcal to that mix, and you're guaranteed a memorable night. Come for the drinks, stay for the rotating artworks by local artists displayed throughout the bar.
🍸 What to try during London Cocktail Week:
JUANITA - £9
Ocho Plata Tequila, Fino Sherry and Three Cents Fig Leaf Soda.
JAMLESS DOÑA - £6 (NON-ALC)
Non-alcoholic agave spirit, aperitif, raspberry jam, sugar syrup, lime juice, acid mix, bitters and egg white (egg-free foamer available).
Doña - 92 Stoke Newington High Street, (The Red Sequin Door), London, N16 7NY
Website
Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's no better time to explore Stoke Newington's cocktail culture than during London Cocktail Week.
This post was written by Rob Ellison, co-founder of drinks magazine TONIC.
