The Sun Tavern East London Review
DISCLOSURE – THIS EXPERIENCE WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST/S FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW.
Reviewed by Dee Ryz
The Sun Tavern, found in the heart of East London, just a short stroll from Bethnal Green station and surrounded by well-connected bus routes, underground and nearby overground services, The Sun Tavern is exactly the kind of place you hope to stumble across – and then keep to yourself like a well-guarded secret… but it’s far too good not to shout about!
The bar has an industrial look – dark wood, exposed brick and warm, low-level lighting. It’s compact but doesn’t feel crowded, and even on a midweek evening it had a steady crowd coming through the doors. The bar itself has a beautiful copper top, and the shelves behind it are stacked with an impressive and varied range of bottles. We decided to grab a couple of high stools near the door, which gave us a good view of the space and a bit of street-side people-watching.
One of the great little touches we noticed straight away was cork coasters branded with The Sun Tavern’s logo lined up along the bar, which you’re encouraged to pocket and take home – a wonderful detail. The only catch being you had to order a drink, so… order we did!
First up we tried the Pressure Drop (‘Elements of Islay Cask Edit, Quiquiriqui Mezcal, Chai, Clarified Apricot Yoghurt’), which was also the biggest surprise – rich, silky, and slightly bitter. Delicious! Next up we opted for the Real Housewives (‘Ocho Blanco Tequila, Quiquiriquí Mezcal, Prickly Pear, Manzanilla, Perello Olive, Smoked Almond’) – it really balanced boldness and smoothness beautifully. Then came the Penelope #86 (‘Dewars 12 Yr Whisky, Remy Martin VSOP Cognac, Palo Cortado, Hazelnut, Maple, Tonka’) – floral and fresh, complete with a sweeter-than-sweet maraschino cherry. Absolutely delightful!
The Sun Tavern team member who served us, was an absolute delight. Knowledgeable and funny, his enthusiasm was really genuine and infectious. He talked us through the menu and even offered some off-menu suggestions tailored to our tastes, which we really appreciated. When asked for something a ‘bit more punchy’, he nodded sagely and then had the bar team whip up a Vieux Carré that ticked every box.
In case you haven’t heard of it, it’s a New Orleans classic, consisting of rye whiskey, cognac, vermouth, and bitters that was complex, layered, and unapologetically strong. If you see it on a cocktail menu, I’d highly recommend giving it a try!
Not drinking? No problem. We also sampled two mocktails, both of which held their own against the boozier options. One was a non-alcoholic paloma-esque drink that was sharp and citrusy with a tiny hint of smoke. The other was a botanical blend with mint and raspberry that was super vibrant and refreshing.
It’s worth noting that the team clearly knows their drinks too – there’s a particular focus on Irish whiskey and locally-sourced drinks, including a rotating cast of beverages they lovingly call the ‘local heroes’ on their menu.
Overall, The Sun Tavern is a beautiful bar with character and soul. With fantastic cocktails (and mocktails), and, warm and attentive staff, it’s a setting that feels like a real escape from the noisy every day of London life. Whether you’re here to sip something special or just ease into the night with good company, it delivers on every front.
Rating: 5/5
For booking and more information visit www.thesuntavern.co.uk