The upstairs bar at classic Spitalfields pub, The Ten Bells, has been transformed into a Kentucky hunting lodge for the winter, compliments of Wild Turkey Bourbon.
I paid a visit and enjoyed the décor (rustic Americana with worn leather elements and some ginormous taxidermed turkeys), the grub (Scotch eggs, pork pies, and such) and the drinks (chiefly a menu featuring five different Old Fashioneds made, of course, with Wild Turkey 101).
Tastiest of the quintet was probably the Maple Sea Salt Old Fashioned (Wild Turkey 101, dark maple syrup, sea salt and orange peel, £10). But they were all good actually, and my bar buddy for the night could get back the Old Smoky (smoked British oak infused Wild Turkey 101, orange bitters and charred oak chip, £10.50).
If you know the Ten Bells then you know it’s a popular pub, often jam packed with punters. Ditto that for its Wild Turkey Lodge on the first floor. I recommend making a rez to ensure you have a table, especially during the run to Christmas and New Years.
Despite the throngs, service was swift and friendly during my visit.
The Wild Turkey Lodge at Ten Bells runs until mid-February. Ten Bells is located at 84 Commercial Street, E1 6LY. Find out more at tenbells.com.
