A new cocktail bar and eatery, The Long Lane has opened up in Smithfield, London this summer. From the team behind the stylish cocktail bar, The Racketeer in King’s Cross, The Long Lane is the latest opening by three veterans of the London hospitality scene, Jack Foxcroft, Tyvian Vigrass, and Marco Torre. With over 60 years of experience between the trio running some of London’s most iconic music venues such as AKA / The End and Village Underground, as well as some of the capital’s finest restaurants and bars, including Hawksmoor Spitalfields and Palomar in Soho.

We visited Long Lane after work and were greeted by the friendly founders and staff as we arrived. They treated us with great service and made us feel very welcomed throughout our time there. Shortly after we sat down – we were presented with the menu for the unique and innovative range of cocktails. The cocktails were perfect for a warm Summer’s evening as they were delicious and refreshing. If you like Gin, as I do, I highly recommend Jaffa Collins, which was gin served with lemon, orange bitters, and grapefruit soda.

As we sipped our cocktails, we admired the design of the bar which is both industrial and contemporary with exposed brickwork keeping in line with The Racketeer’s signature dark blue motif.

Babel, was founded by the team behind Yeah! Burger and have created a menu both comforting and worldly, a collection of small plates made with recipes discovered on their travels and refined for London’s modern palette. It was perfect for sharing between myself and my friend. We tried the new delectable dishes, including smoked beef short rib; Burrata, crispy cauliflower, roasted chickpeas, chicken Kiev; and Kerala spiced crab.

We were blown away by the smoked beef short rib as the meat was so tender and we loved the Romesco sauce that accompanied the dish, it was absolutely delightful. Another dish that was absolutely superb was the Burrata – a simple dish executed beautifully, with its own unique touch as it was served with spicy garlic herb oil. The spice gave the cheese a subtle kick as the Burrata melted in our mouths which we really enjoyed. I highly recommend everyone to try these dishes! Overall, we felt the food was high quality and enjoyed our dining experience.

If you are looking for a chic spot for post-work drinks instead of the busy pub down the road – we would recommend The Long Lane. The friendly vibe and design also made this a suitable place for a date or catch-up with friends. I would definitely visit again with a group of friends.

“The Long Lane brings a new sense of intimacy to the London food and nightlife scene, particularly post-pandemic. A warm spot in the neighbourhood where conversations will oscillate through attentive and personable service, as well as impeccable food, and drink. The Long Lane was established by experienced creatives, seeking to build a bar and eatery around classic cocktails with an unconventional twist, a stylish soundtrack, and a zeal for conversation. We’re excited to bring our latest offering to the capital, as travel returns and locals are out again in the city,” continued Jack Foxcroft, Tyvian Vigrass, and Marco Torre.

The Long Lane is open from Wednesday to Friday, from 12 pm to 12 am, and Saturday from 4 pm to 12 am. To make a reservation, please visit the website.

A: 50-52 Long Ln, London EC1A 9EJ
T: 0203 874 0542
W: The Long Lane

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Written by Vanessa Hoh for Luxuria Lifestyle London and International