It’s the bar that everyone wants to keep a secret. Snuggled in Hoxton Square, Happiness Forgets is easy to miss, which actually makes it all the more endearing when you walk down the stairs.
Attractive bar men, casually juggling bottles and smiling waitresses greet you as you enter the basement.
The atmosphere is warm and buzzing with the only light coming from large lanterns that give off a soft ambience that makes you instantly feel relaxed. The décor is simple, understated and cosy with the red brick walls and very cute quirks such as lettering on the steps.
The bar is very proud of its speciality gin, tequila and absinthe cocktails, lethal but very delicious. My personal favourite is the Tokyo Collins, comprising beefeater gin and yuzu sake, stirred with fresh lemon and grapefruit, topped with soda, a long drink with a sharp, crisp edge.
It is very easy (and dangerous!) to work you way down the tempting cocktail menu but the waitresses provide you with topped up water, which is a nice touch and prevents that swimmy head!
If you get a bit peckish there is a small snack menu offering Thai treats from Yelo Canteen, which is above the basement.
Happiness Forgets is perfect for a date or catching up with friends. It is a great warm up bar or one for a cosy one in, especially in the up and coming winter months.
Make sure you book a table in advanced, because it is guaranteed to be busy. Tables are available for 2-8 persons
The website doesn’t give much away about this basement bar but with it’s motto being “great cocktails, no wallies”, it captures a perfect night out in four words.
