Equal Parts - sister to east London's Sager + Wilde and Fare - launched in mid-2023 and has quickly grown a reputation. Better late than never, Hamish Smith dropped by to see just why.
Michael Sager’s latest east London venue is another endearing spot. There is no grandiloquent conceptual pretence, Equal Parts is a bar. And it does being a bar really rather well.
The entrance, framed by an arresting sage green-tiled surround, leads into a small ground-level space encased by shutters and softly illuminated by candle – consider the mood set. There’s wood panelling, a curved mid-century-esque back bar, over which a few pot plants cascade, with a line of stools facing them.
From the bar, the acoustics feel just right, the atmosphere humming nicely for a midweek night, while the service is there when it’s needed, but otherwise fades into the backdrop.
On the drinks list are 15 or so cocktails. I order the Flor, with olive oil, Haku vodka, fino sherry and tomato – heaven to the savoury palate. Then comes Mr Fernando with Brugal 1888, Punt e Mes, Averna + walnuts; one of those drinks that needs little description beyond its ingredients.
Both fine drinks, and sensibly priced at £12. I wonder if it’s actually possible to not like this bar.
Total: 9/10
» 245 Hackney Rd, London E2 8NA