Sure, it's simple as hell - but there's something so satisfying about sipping on an old fashioned. From Mad Men's Don Draper to the city of Louisville naming it as their official drink, we're not the only ones who love this blend of bitters, whisky or bourbon, and sugars. While it may have originated across the pond in the US, London's bars haven't let that stop them creating their own take on the classic; we've rounded up 10 of the best old fashioneds in the city.
Tricky to find behind heavy, unsigned wooden doors, sandwiched between shops near Old Street station, the basement room pulsates with live music, friendly bar staff and a buzzing atmosphere. Look out for the Toronto, a development on the old fashioned, with candy floss, orange blossom smoke and a coffee and roasted pecan syrup thrown in, all mixed with a delicious Woodford Reserve Bourbon.
Hankering for some of the sexiest cocktails in the city, from a location that knows their way around an old fashioned like almost no other in the city? Let the vintage trinkets, unique ingredients and prime flavours of the elusive Purl be your guide.
Moments from Old Street, a movie-star, knock-out bar is hiding. The Gibson is an inventive and exuberant bar with live piano music that brings back 1920s vibes. Ask the master mixologists to mix up an old fashioned to truly show your respect to The Prohibition.
If you want your old fashioned with a side of theatrics, there's no better spot than The Alchemist. Found in Old Street, the magical bar is spicing up your whisky with or bourbon with a huge dose of smoke - and it doesn't just look, it tastes pretty awesome too.
If you're looking for a quirky old fashioned cocktail in London, then head to The Last Talisman on Bermondsey Road. Their banoffee-infused tipple includes caramelized banana bourbon, rye, whiskey and chocolate bitters.
If you're a fan of the dark stuff, then MAP Maison is definitely a great shout. Enjoy sipping on a bourbon old fashioned and a range of other whisky-based drinks while grabbing a few nibbles or lunch at this stunning East London venue.
A relative new comer on London's drinking scene, this Angel bar is a cosy bolthole that's got 'date night' stamped all over it. Run by two award-winning bartenders, the spot is a homage to Ireland, with plenty of unique concoctions and - if you ask nicely - they'll whip you up a mean old fashioned.
