Cocktails Around The Globe by Sabi Phagura

Whether you want to chat over brunch, linger over a long lunch, or just catch up over a latte, the Globe Bar is the perfect setting for any occasion.

But perhaps it’s the signature cocktails that make their mark at this retro-style bar. Situated within the Chiswick Moran Hotel, the Globe bar – named after the huge shimmering globe that hangs between the lobby and bar – is fast gaining a reputation as one of the trendiest yet friendly places to be seen in, in West London. In this buzzy setting that features one of the longest bars in the capital, you can sample a number of cocktail concoctions while nibbling on a Mediterranean platter.

For fruity concoctions, a good recommendation is the fresh passion cocktail consisting of vodka, apple juice and passion fruit, served in a tall glass filled with crushed iced and sprigs of mint. Those who like a kick to their drink are onto a winner with the champagne cocktail, the French kiss, a combination of champagne, raspberries and ginger beer, sweetened with apricot brandy. The best of France meets Dublin, Black Velvet, is another of the finest champagne cocktails available, popular with stout lovers because of the Guinness in the mix.

The bar impressively offers 25 different beers and even whizz up non-alcoholic cocktails upon request. The classic Shirley Temple is an effervescent mix of ginger ale, lemonade and grenadine, garnished with a Maraschino cherry while the Virgin Mary peps up tomato juice with a splash of lemon juice, a dash of Tabasco, a pinch of celery salt and a sprinkling of Worcestershire sauce. The delicious and nutritious. Fruit Cocktail mixes fresh orange, banana, pineapple juice and passion fruit puree, topped off with a splash of soda water.  Bar tenders also offer creamy smoothies, such as the non-dairy Banana & Peanut Butter which is made with soy milk and sweetened with a drizzle of honey.

The Napa restaurant opposite is ideal for those who may have worked up an appetite after a few drinks. Inspired by the vibrancy and lightness of Californian cuisine while using the best of British produce, the restaurant offers an extensive menu at fairly reasonable prices, around £20 for a main meal. The availability of quality seasonal produce is the driving force behind this modern menu which changes frequently – sometimes even daily – to reflect the quality of produce available.

Diners can opt to have complete meals from the main section or choose simple grilled meats and fish and team them up with sauces of their choice and sides. The menu proudly boasts beef from the ‘Charolais’ herd which is reared on the farm house estate in Shrivenham in Swindon. Meanwhile their pork comes from the British saddleback breed, bred and reared at Knowles Farm in Surrey which is just 15 miles away.

Those with a sweet tooth have a tough choice on their hands with a range of tempting treats on offer on the dessert menu. Choosing between the Gingerbread, cranberry and orange cheesecake or Plum tart tatin with cinnamon ice-cream can be a tricky task when sober let alone when merry after a few drinks from the carefully selected wine menu. There is of course always the fail safe Classic Napa, a chocolate fondue with marshmallows, strawberries and pastries for two to share.

Situated in one of west London’s most vibrant towns that is Chiswick, the Chiswick Moran is an ideal place to chill out and relax with an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s rooms. Many of the 118 rooms offer panoramic views over London which is ideal for planning visits to popular landmarks or merely appreciate their beauty from indoors. Although ultra modern in their design, the bedrooms do not compromise on comfort or space. Guest rooms include a flat-screen TV, work desk, and a small lounge area with a choice of magazines.

The hotel is less than 1.5 miles from Kew Gardens and Chiswick High Road which is popular for its variety of boutique shops. Although gym facilities can be found within the hotel, the nearby Thames path offers both joggers and walkers alike, a chance to breathe in some fresh air as well as get a good workout.

The Chiswick Moran Hotel is located at 626 Chiswick High Road, London.

Room rates start from £90.00 per room, per night.

For reservations and more information, visit www.chiswickmoranhotel.com