NIJŪ already feels like a hidden gem, so having a covert little cocktail bar tucked underneath it somehow feels doubly intoxicating.
And Nipperkin is a place that you’ll definitely want to seek out.
To find it, you’ll just have to make your way to the stately Mayfair townhouse on the fringe of Berkeley Square that houses NIJŪ, a Japanese grill & sushi bar from third generation sushi master Endo Kazutoshi. Head down the carpeted staircase, and you’ll stumble upon Nipperkin: a cosy little hideaway with a narrow, polished wooden bar that anchors the space, and which barely separates you from the person mixing your drink. It all feels immensely warm and inviting, with rich, red velvet bench seating and a smattering of verdant plants for a dash of freshness.
The drinks menu is divided up into four chapters:
- Foraged – including an exceptional, ultra-savoury, umami-laden Ramson Martini, made with truffles & wild garlic.
- Preserving – where you’ll find the refreshing & bright Elderflower & Jasmine, made with tequila & fermented elderflower tea.
- Home Grown – which has a peppery Tomato & Basil cocktail that mixes mezcal with home grown basil distillate & Nipperkin’s own fennel absinthe.
- Supporting The Community – the delightful Pomes & Honey blends whisky with cider brandy, London honey, and fermented ginger.
There’s a bar menu too, in which you can get everything from some simple home-made pickles, to a selection of grilled skewers (mushroom, chicken, A4 Wagyu), or one of their Japanese sandos, including the likes of grilled chicken with tonkotsu mayo, or white fish clasped in their cloud-like Japanese ‘shokupan’ milk bread.
And given that the talent in the kitchen is from NIJŪ upstairs, you’ll be in for a nice little treat.
NOTE: Nipperkin is open now – head here to make a booking.
PREVIOUS PERK: Nudge Members (+3) enjoyed 50% off cocktails throughout May & June 2024. Not a Nudge Member yet? Start your free 7 day trial.
Nipperkin | Downstairs at 20 Berkeley St, W1J 8EE
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