Despite the lockdown and the curfew, Bristol’s secret bar scene is still fighting on. They may be some of the worst kept secrets going as there's often been a not-very-secret unveiling of another hidden cocktail bar in Bristol but when talking to recruiters about nights out in Bristol were always shocked to discover these aren't as well-known as we think!
Here are Navado’s favourite Secret Cocktail Bars in Bristol chosen for quirkiness, service and wow factor and the ultimate way to blow the commission or to follow up a lunch club.
You'll need to book and do check whether anything changes mid-lockdown but as of October 2020 the following are all opening as much as they can!
Her Majesty's Secret Service Bar (Or HMSS)
A proper speakeasy this is genuinely a blink, and you'll miss it spot and miss it you should not. It looks like you could be walking up to Bristol's answer to Number 10 for tea with Boris, but the HMSS sign on the door lets you know you are in the right place and in for a good night. A small bar its busy at peak times but you are never made to feel hurried, and the team behind the magic are always unflappably cool.
Navado’s favourite cocktail
Twister
How Do I Get In?
Grab the phone outside and don't slur your words
When is it open?
Monday – Saturday check for COVID opening
Where
Whiteladies Gate, Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2PH
Hyde & Co
Sister-site of Milk Thistle there is a small illuminated sign with a bowler hat, and the door is just after to the left, ring the doorbell and wait for them to come to get you for alcohol heaven. It's a brilliant little venue that's very moody inside and an amazing place for a covid safe small group of you. Expect an eclectic cocktail list where you can feel confident in the team behind the bar, give them an idea of the sort of things you like and let them run riot.
Navados favourite cocktail
The Coronation Tap (yes named after the legendary pub)
How Do I Get In?
Ring the doorbell and wait to be collected.
When is it open?
Tuesday to Sunday – evening until Late
Where
The Basement, 2 Upper Byron Place, Bristol, BS 1YJ
The Milk Thistle
The largest of Bristol speakeasies it's the most unhidden secret bar in Bristol, but the quirky layout makes for small inviting spaces and some party space for private hire. It’s hidden in what you think should be a law firm or financial advisors building, The Milk Thistle is the much bigger younger sister of Hyde & Co. It's an amazing venue for an incentive with four floors and private function rooms including a favourite hidden secret dining room. We love the ever-changing cocktail menu and the fact despite its size, you can still feel cut off from everyone else.
Navado’s favourite cocktail
Bristol Tea
How Do I Get In?
Ring the door buzzer (think a block of flats intercom)
When is it open?
Monday – Saturday – evening until Late
Where
Quay Head House, Colston Avenue, Bristol
Kinkajou
On the site of the old Hausbar – Bristols original secluded bar is tucked away at the top of Whiteladies Road in Bristol and Kinkajou is getting the same rave reviews of Hausbar. Kinkajou successfully got the council to let them reopen the terrace with chilled beats which makes it the only speakeasy with its own speakeasy garden out the back, perfect whether its summer or winter! Kinkajou regularly holds masterclasses, sessions and you can book for private hire seven days a week.
Navados favourite cocktail
Painkiller
When is it open?
Tuesday to Sunday evening – late
Where
Lower Ground Floor, 52 Upper Belgrave Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2XP
Red Light
Where Milk Thistle is the upmarket drinking den of choice this venue is fun and really suits groups and has a great atmosphere that always promises a good time. Red light is a classic speakeasy, is dimly lit and has a seriously cool 1940’s feel with retro style and, despite the tiny doorway inside, it’s actually a tardis with enough space for groups (when allowed) to get together. The cocktail menu is as thought through as the décor and divided into three categories which we will leave for you to find out rather than spoiling here.
Navados favourite cocktail
Slap and Tickle
How Do I Get In
Grab the payphone in the Graffitti’d doorway looking for the red light!
When is it open?
Monday to Saturday evening – late
Where
1 Unity St, Bristol BS1 5HH
Our list of hidden cocktails bars of Bristol is not in any order, we like getting drunk in each of them equally, and can firmly recommend all the above for post-lunch knees up or if you're looking for somewhere different for a sales day incentive.
Have we missed anyone? Jump on to LinkedIn and let us know!
Navado Talent is a Bristol Rec2Rec serving all recruitment markets across the UK and covering both 180 and 360 recruitment jobs right up to leadership roles. Whether you're looking for a Bristol rec2rec to help you recruit for your team or looking for your next recruitment job Navado need's to be your first call.