Henry C

How do you make a mark on a neighbourhood that’s already blessed with a great range of drinking establishments, from traditional pubs to contemporary pint and slice hangouts? According to Henry C, you focus on pouring spectacularly good cocktails with an appreciation for the classics. The formula has worked since 2016, and now this intimate and upmarket spot has cemented its reputation as a local gem. Better yet, it’s location on one of the area’s busiest crossroads, a few minutes walk from lovely Longford Park and the metro stop, mean it’s easy to reach. 

A quick look through the menu quickly shows you that Henry C takes negronis seriously. The Negroni Classico is made with Beefeater Gin, Campari and Doulin Rouge Vermouth. Meanwhile, the Waldorf Negroni uses Sloe Gin with Apricot Vermouth, Select and Italicus. Alternatively, opt for a Negroni Speziato (Plymouth Gin, Cynar, Cocchi, Americano, Cocchi Torino and Ancho Reyes Chile), the stunning Chocolate Negroni using Martini Bitter, Abuleo Anejo Rum and Punt E Nes, or the exotic and self-explanatory Fig Negroni. The list could go on. Looking for else? No problems, experts behind the bar have you covered. 

Unique creations include Whisky + Milk (using Wild Turkey 81 bourbon, washed with the white stuff), the Naked Lady, which involves yoghurt-infused gin, coffee vodka-driven Wake Up Call, and Twisted Orchard (Calvados, Apple, Gingerbeer Cordial, Dry Curacao, Lemon and Absinthe). Beyond the cocktails, a small but very well put together wine list runs from sparkling Cuveé Classic to White Quinta do Ermizio Chin Chin, Italian orange Verdicchio, and Neroperso Appassimento — an incredible red straight from Veneto. Beers from local heroes Track, and imported gems like Krombacher, Alhambra Reserva, Jupiler non-alcoholic and Kerisac Cidre complete the package. Classy to the last, Henry C’s is a place you won’t forget in a hurry. At least not the first few rounds, anyway.