On a vibrant, sun-kissed Thursday evening, I ventured to explore the tantalising concoctions at the freshly unveiled Scales Bar London. Nestled discreetly beneath Drink with Sasha in the heart of Marylebone and Mayfair, Scales Bar London has a secretive charm, a hidden haven for cocktail enthusiasts in the know. Emerging onto the scene in December 2023, Scales bears testament to the creative genius of master mixologists and owners Din Jusufi and Engji Shala, whose expertise was finely honed during a five-year tenure at culinary hotspot, Farzi London. Their passion for mixology is truly contagious. Engage them in conversation, and you’ll gain insights into the inspiration behind your drink, learn about the ingredients, and receive personalised recommendations for your next order.
Engji Shala explains: “Our philosophy at Scales London Bar centers on balance, precision, and consistency. Each drink is crafted with seasonal fresh produce, expertly integrated into our cocktails. We started the bar to bridge the gap of understanding between consumers and the modern craft of cocktails.”
The Location
Locating Scales Bar entails a journey through a modest wine emporium, ending with a secret door that leads you into the underground world of Scales. Descending dimly lit staircases, I brimmed with anticipation, eager to uncover the mysteries that lay below. The ambiance, undoubtedly, was tailored for intimate gatherings and whispered conversations, all while indulging in the decadent art of cocktail crafting.
True to its name and emblem, Scales Bar embraces the principles of balance and harmony, guiding everything it does. Our host showed us a secluded laboratory nestled within the bar – a veritable alchemist’s sanctum – where each cocktail undergoes testing and refinement. Within this chamber of experimentation, an array of specialised equipment stands sentinel, transforming the essence of fresh ingredients into liquid poetry.
First Impressions
Stepping into the bar itself, one is enveloped in an ambiance of opulent masculinity, punctuated by the presence of rare vintage spirits proudly displayed amidst the shadows. A framed portrait, depicting a fox atop a gentleman’s suit, lends an air of sophistication. The elongated bar, flanked by a select few leather-bound stools, creates an atmosphere of exclusivity where secret discussions take place. It is a testament to the feeling of London – a city replete with hidden treasures, whispered about in hushed tones yet teeming with life and fervour.
The Cocktails
The seasonal bar menu at Scales is a testament to their commitment to utilising locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Cocktails are presented in delicate, minimalist glassware, evoking a sense of refined elegance similar to establishments like Tayer and Elementary. Here, the emphasis lies not in fancy garnishes, but rather in the harmonious interplay of flavours.
Our first cocktail was the Shiso Apple – an intriguing blend of Desi Daru Vodka, Shiso Leaf, Green Apple, and Bergamot. Desi Daru Vodka, an ultra-premium spirit inspired by Indian tradition, marries the best of East and West with its creamy English wheat tones. This vodka strikes a perfect balance between boldness and subtlety. The shiso leaf adds a fresh, citrusy flavour with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and mint, resulting in an umami-laden, herbaceous profile that tantalizes the senses. This delightful concoction is served in an elegant Nick and Nora glass.
Next, we sampled the Fig, a sophisticated blend of Camus Cognac, succulent figs, citrus zest, pandan, and almond, evoking earthy warmth and crispness. Presented in a chic footed rocks glass, this cocktail is sweet from the figs, with vanilla and coconut notes from the pandan, perfectly complemented by the smooth finish of Camus Cognac.
Our third delight was the Tangerine, featuring Cazcabel Tequila, lemongrass, tangerine, and grapefruit. Cazcabel Tequila, with its fresh, smooth balance of earthy agave and citrus and a slightly smoky finish, hails from the highlands of the Jalisco mountains in Mexico. Combined with the vibrant citrus fruits, it delivers a bold, aromatic experience, served in a whisky glass.
The Makrut Lime Leaf is a fragrant and tropical concoction made with Tidal Rum – a golden aged rum blend from the Caribbean, slowly aged in oak casks and infused with rare marine botanicals. Makrut Lime Leaf, also known as Kaffir Lime or Thai Lime, is a citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia, often used in its cuisine. This cocktail, mixed with mango, yuzu, and amaro, has a green tint and a deliciously exotic flavour.
The Goat cocktail features English Single Malt “Lakes Whisky” at its heart, combined with goat cheese, coffee, orange, and tonka. This unusual combination surprisingly works, delivering a smooth, savoury, and robust taste experience.
Rounding off our evening was the Raspberry cocktail, a harmonious blend of Amazzoni Gin, coconut water, sage, raspberry, and jasmine. Amazzoni Gin, the first gin produced in Brazil, includes juniper, laurel, and pink pepper. The coconut water and sage lend a refreshing, savoury taste, leaving a lingering fruity, herbaceous finish on the palate.
The Ambiance
As sultry jazz melodies suffuse the air, intermingling with the rhythmic cadence of cocktail shakers and the murmured exchanges of patrons, the ambiance of Scales Bar turns into an experience beyond compare. It is a hidden oasis, deserving of acclaim yet cherished as a secret gem by those who recognise the artistry in mixology. Here, in this sanctuary, imbibers are not revellers seeking inebriation but rather discerning enthusiasts, savouring each sip as a testament to the craft and creativity that defines Scales Bar. It’s a venue that beckons as the quintessential destination for a memorable evening of refined indulgence, whether in the company of a cherished companion or alongside fellow aficionados of the cocktail arts.
To find out more, visit scalesbar.com
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All imagery courtesy of Scales Bar London.