There’s an epic new speakeasy style bar expertly hidden within BrewDog Waterloo’s 27,500 sq ft venue. Lost Property Office is the latest launch of Rich Woods, aka ‘The Cocktail Guy’, the creative mind behind the boundary-pushing cocktail menus of numerous leading London bars and restaurants such as Gold Notting Hill, SUSHISAMBA, and Duck and Waffle. Hidden away on the second floor, the entrance is only identifiable by a traditional style public phone and ‘Lost Property’ Plaque explaining how to gain access.

Entering the space, it immediately has a distinctly New York vibe. A feature-piece bar dominates the room whilst surrounding tables and nooks add to an intimate yet inclusive setting. Smiley bartenders accompanied by the low hum of laughter and chatter amongst guests make for a true neighbourhood bar feel, transporting guests worlds away from the hecticness of BrewDog on the other side of the door.

We sat down to sample the latest Christmas menu, with a cocktail list including names of festive favourite deserts, such as Chocolate Oranges and Mince Pies. One thing to mention immediately is the creativity of service; Rich’s Chocolate Orange Negroni is served in a replica chocolate orange box, the festive martini in a small sea coloured bowl complete with handmade pebbles; every cocktail had a moment of awe and surprise simply in its presentation – which makes for a great conversation piece.

The full cocktail list was delightful, our favourites were Rich’s Chocolate Orange Negroni; Gin, Campari, Sweet Vermouth, cacao husk, Neroli and orange zest, and the Mince Pie Old Fashioned; the usual mix of Gin, Vermouth and Campari made Christmassy with a moreish mince pie and salted caramel. Both boozy classics with an extra special festive twist, we instantly settled into the holiday spirit. For people with a sweeter tooth, I would highly recommend the Winter Cosmo; merry, berry and bright with rosemary and cranberry sorbet topped with sparkling wine, as light as it was delicious.

A beautifully decorated bar with an imaginative cocktail list makes for a great festive drinks spot with tons of conversational points. A laid-back neighbourhood style venue, you’ll instantly feel at ease here and it’s great for a date night.

Address: Unit G, Waterloo Station, Second Floor, 01 The Sidings, London, SE1 7BH

Website: www.waterloolostpropertyoffice.co.uk

Written by Jordan Crowley

Photography courtesy of Lost Property Office