Midlands reviewer James March headed to Nottingham this autumn for the the city's big opening.
Sister bar to tequila specialist 400 Rabbits, Loose Ends’ smart marmalade-orange facade sits on Friar St, replete with handsome Georgian houses and views of Nottingham Castle.
Opened by James and Jennifer Aspell, its minimalist interior is fl ourished by spider-like plant pots and hanging exposed lights, and the staff are friendly and inquisitive.
The 20-strong cocktail menu revolves every three months and includes four non-alcoholic options. It’s a warm evening, so I take a seat on the small fenced-off patio outside and choose the June Bug.
An almost cartoonishly green mix of agricole rum, banana liqueur, Midori, pineapple and lime, crowned with a pandan leaf, it’s soothing and expertly crafted with a tenderly tropical lilt and the banana as the subtly dominant note.
The Pisco Peach’s blend of sour peach notes with a dash of smoky Laphroaig is jarring at first but soon settles down into an easygoing summer refresher. Overall, Loose Ends is a breezy delight that should be a Nottingham staple for years to come.
Score 8/10
92 Friar Ln, Nottingham NG1 6EB