Freud - The only psychological ailment ol’ Sigmund could possibly diagnose of this buzzing café/bar/gallery is claustrophobia. A slightly menacing metal staircase below the street-level Freud tableware shop leads patrons to a somewhat gritty narrow room where space is a hot commodity. Businessmen in suits might be sharing a table with a couple of platinum blonde artists, whilst others make do with a seat on the stone steps in back. The vibe evokes a bohemian New York City coffee shop, and sure enough, lattes, sandwiches, and salads are served until 4:30pm. Come nightfall, though, you’d have to be absolutely mad not to order one of the amazing cocktails listed on the stencilled chalkboard above the small bar. The mojitos are the best you’ll find this side of Havana, and the Boris Tea and Ladyboy (£5.60-£6.10) are skilfully prepared by the black t-shirt-clad barmen with Tom-Cruise-in-Cocktail-style panache. The noise level—with piped-in tunes ranging from Soft Cell to random beats—is semi-deafening, and the tight fit can be awkward if you’re with a group. But with drinks this good, nobody gives a damn. Look for mulled wine and Scrumpy Jack cider on the menu, as well as rotating art exhibits that liven up the distressed cement walls.
