The Cork and Bottle

Blink and you’d miss the entrance to this little wine bar, whose entrance is flanked by twin pillars of excellence – the ubiquitous discount-ticket sellers and a sex shop - and is right near London’s Leicester (for any Americans out there – that’s pronounced Less-ter) Square.

Redolent of a Parisienne brasserie (ah, how appropriate), this is an unlikely delight, especially considering its setting. Low ceilings, good food, an enormous wine list (many available by glass or carafe), and not too crowded. You have to go to the bar to order though, which is annoying, as that rather interrupts things. And there are things growing in the toilets. But I liked it though, I think. And I’d maybe even go again, if I wanted to meet somewhere central, but realistically I’d say it’s not a destination bar.

For me this month, all in all, I'd say that the book was far superior to the bar, although both were v. well chosen. However, next month I’ll be living back in London, and so drinking properly, so perhaps this dynamic will change...