No.10 on Bond Street is a relative newcomer to the foodie scene here in Jersey, but it has already made a very big impression on me and the countless diners who are already raving about the delightful menu and beautiful surroundings. Having sampled the delights on their excellent menu I was keen to venture downstairs to delve a little deeper into what the bar has to offer and I wasn’t disappointed.
Although this below street level bar has had many other guises in its time, none are quite as delightful as the current owners have made it. Every bottle behind the bar has been carefully considered, there are no poor quality spirits here, although you’ll be surprised that isn’t reflected in the prices, a cocktail is just £8, an absolute steal. They’re also the proud purveyors of one of the finest gin collections I’ve seen on island, at last count there were 20 to choose from, each one cleverly garnished with one of their botanical components to really enhance your G&T pleasure.
I was fortunate enough to sit down and sample a few of the cocktails from the thoughtfully constructed drinks menu. Marian is the mixologist responsible for creating my Sweet Dilly, a gin based cocktail inspired by owner Joseph’s memories of his Grandmother, her name was Dilly and she loved gin! This clever blend of aromatics was a delight on the palate, the perfect blend of Jensen’s Gin, elderflower from the St-Germain liqueur and topped with a splash of elderflower Fever Tree tonic and a generous helping of dill oil which rolls into beautiful spheres on the top of my glass. As a long cocktail it was also really refreshing too. Like everything in the restaurant the unique components are freshly made in house and from local ingredients where possible.
Next up was Marian’s favourite the Old Fashioned, I think you’d be hard pushed to find a mixologist who isn’t a fan of this classic cocktail. He chose a rye whiskey as the base and balanced it with sugar syrup and his own personal blend of bitters, patiently stirred and poured over a magnificent ice globe, made in house and by hand, this is also one of my favourites and it was a pleasure to drink, smooth and aromatic as a good Old Fashioned should be.
The beauty of this basement bar comes not only from the drinks on offer but also by way of the decor. Once again interior designer mum, Annie Baker, has shown incredible flair with copper accents throughout complementing the copper fronted bar and the tables, chairs, stools and all of the soft furnishings are crying out to be enjoyed as the nights draw in and our evenings become longer. If you’re looking for food to accompany your drinks then fear not, as you’ll be able to access both the small plates bar menu and can dine from the main restaurant menu too.
If you need to find me at any stage throughout the autumn and winter months then I’d consider starting at No.10, particularly if it’s between the hours of 11am-11pm Tuesday to Saturdays. I’m likely to be sat in the alcove at the back with my feet up and an Old Fashioned in hand, I’ll see you there!
Number 10 Bond St, St Helier, Jersey / Tel: 01534 733223 / www.number10jersey.com
