Borough in London has always been known as a hub for multicultural and diverse dining, From the world food pop up stalls in Borough market to the fine bars and restaurants along Borough High Road, many of us have experienced a taste of their flair.
This week, I was invited to Swift, an acclaimed, two-story cocktail bar opened in autumn 2022 by renowned industry experts. Known for its intimate atmosphere, it features a bright, casual upstairs bar and a dark, moody speakeasy (“The Back Pocket”) downstairs, specialising in cocktails such as Irish coffee, and Sgroppinos, prepared mostly with seasonal ingredients.
On arrival, my girlfriend and I were greeted by Cosimo, a friendly staff member who seated us, then explained a little about the menu, full of the classics we all know and love but with their own original refreshing twist. With the drinks illustrated like scientific diagrams, each menu description gives precise detail on the measure and character of the chosen beverage. As well as cocktails, they serve crafted beers, wines, champagne and mocktails.
We had two cocktails each. I started with ‘Little Venice’, a sweet option of Pommeau, Hendricks Gin, Peach Vermouth, and Campari. It is described as sophisticated, bittersweet and floral. Accurate. Such a delicious concoction. My second drink was the ‘Berkeley’, described as short, lively, and herbaceous. Again, spot on: a bitter and earthy taste, but very satisfying.
The mixologists at Swift Borough are renowned for creating innovative, high-concept drinks. The Berkeley (left) bridges the lighter, brighter drinks served upstairs such as the Sgroppino (right) and the high-concept cocktails in the “Back Pocket” basement. The Berkeley is complex enough for a speakeasy but bright enough for an aperitivo.
My girlfriends Jess’ favourite was the ‘Sgroppino’, an interesting combination of St Germain, Lemon sorbet, and Prosecco. Detailed as light, zesty and fun, the sorbet was as big as a golf ball, which Jess was happy to share with me. Her second choice was the ‘Irish Coffee’, consisting of Jameson Caskmates Whiskey, Send Swift Blend Coffee, Demerara, hand-whipped cream and grated nutmeg. It is a drink with strong profile, sharp and velvety at the same time.
Swift also offers a selection of light bites, including cheese and cured meat boards, as well as olives, nuts and other little snacks.
As I am dabbling in pescatarianism, we went for the cheese plate. Gerald, another attentive staff member brought it to us, served with black pepper oat cakes, green grapes, apple and cider chutney, some fresh olives, and my personal favourite, chilli rice crackers. The perfect complement to soak the cocktails.
All in all, Swift Borough makes for an easy recommendation. The cocktails are well judged, the food is simple but satisfying and the service is both attentive and relaxed. It is the kind of bar that works just as well for a casual drink upstairs as it does for a darker, slower evening downstairs. I will certainly be back.
SWIFT BOROUGH
66 Borough High St, London SE1 1XF
More information and bookings, HERE.
Author: Papa S. Abebrese
If you like cocktails, you may enjoy a visit to the rooftop bar, Sabine London.
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