This spring, St James Bar in the five-star Sofitel London St James will be welcoming Belfast’s only dedicated jazz bar, Berts Jazz Bar in The Merchant Hotel, for an exclusive guest takeover in partnership with award- winning Irish distillery, The Boatyard Distillery. On Tuesday 22nd March 2022, Londoners will have the opportunity to try the mixed drinks, inspired by iconic jazz capitals of the world, created by General Manager Mark O’Neill, in the heart of London.
Multi award-winning cocktail bar, Berts Jazz Bar exudes the Art Deco glamour of 1930s New York, with its sumptuous décor and sultry live music. Mark O’Neill, the brains behind the delectable signature serves has worked closely with Ciarán Shannon at The Boatyard Distillery, situated on the banks of Lough Erne, County Fermanagh, to artificially utilise their lauded range of gins and vodka.
As a follow up to the launch of the ‘Imagination’ menu – a truly innovative exploration of the concept of the imagination through drink, using unique flavours, molecular techniques and sustainable processes – the collaboration marks the start of St James Bar’s exciting journey this year, by hosting one of Belfast’s most revered bars.
Berts Jazz Bar has devised a unique menu that will feature four deftly designed cocktails, which start £15. Martinez – (Boatyard Old Tom, Sweet Vermouth, Maraschino, Dry Curaçao), One and Only – (Boatyard Double Gin, Lemon, Double Cream, Vanilla Syrup, Gomme), French 75 – (Boatyard Sloe Boat, Maraschino, Creme d’Abricot, Lemon, Champagne), Joan Collins – (Boatyard Vodka, Dry Vermouth, Basil, Pear, Lemon, Verjus, Soda Water).
These libations manifest the essence of Berts Jazz Bar, reflecting the colourful and quixotic nature of the jazz age. Each cocktail encapsulates the juxtaposition of the sophisticated with the raucous, the flamboyant with the subdued, whilst nodding to the elegant and spirited nature of St James Bar. For one night only, the drinks will be available in the evening, from 5pm-10pm.
