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Review: Cinco De Mayo – DSC

Posted on 31/05/2018 by atadmin

Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for the 5th May, marks the date when the Mexican army defeated the French in the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

It’s become a big annual celebration across the Atlantic in Mexico and the US, and this year it came to Discount Suit Company for the second year running.

The night itself kicked off at 6pm, and the importation of Mexican party vibes proved to be a great fit once more.

The Latin themes ran strongly throughout our liquid refreshments for the night, which included our guest serve for the month, Señor Juan.. as well as plenty of Mezcal shots.

Featuring Quiquiriqui Mezcal firmly at its base, Juan played on his Mexican heritage with hibiscus & lime also starring. A herbaceous edge was supplied, with a little sage to round him off.

Meanwhile, spirits were kept high all night with a healthy playlist of Latin Boogaloo bangers, which were flying off our decks courtesy of resident DJ, Danny Roberts.

There was also a feast of Mexican bites as nourishment for our fiesta, including Nachos and even a homemade salsa.

Thanks to everyone who came down to this year’s fiesta for a dance and a drink-up, it was great to have you. All the more so since there wasn’t a Trump in sight.

You can also still get your hands on our guest cocktail for May, Señor Juan, if you wanted to keep the Latin spirit alive.

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St Patrick’s Day 2018 Review – TST

Posted on 05/04/2018 by atadmin

On 17th March we celebrated Irish Christmas for the fourth successive year over here at The Sun Tavern. We spent the evening honouring the man who helped rid the motherland of snakes… and drinking a fair bit of the pure drop to boot.

Festivities got underway with a spot of traditional sporting activity on our big screen – with the hotly-anticipated England vs Ireland rugby ending with a fitting victory for the boys from the Emerald Isle to help us all get into the patriotic swing of things.

Spirits high, come the evening our favourite shucker, Oyster Boy, was on hand to add some sustenance to the night ahead.

He was dishing out the Oysters for nothing, taking a break from his regular vending activities down Columbia Road, Broadway Market and Leyton Food Market, to bring a bit of East London tradition to the table.

On top of this, for this year’s celebrations we teamed up with our good friends at Dublin’s Teeling Distillery to create three Teeling-based cocktails – all exclusive to the day itself – dubbed ‘Golden Triangle’, ‘Pear Drop’, and ‘Revival’.

Revival – Teeling Small Batch, Calvados, Pimento Dram, Apple, Lime, topped w/ Ginger Ale.

Pear Drop – Teeling Single Malt, Rinquinquin, White Port, topped w/ Sekforde.

Golden Triangle – Teeling Single Grain, Ruby Port, Demarara, Lemon & Thyme.

Predictably, the cocktail went down a treat and the pure drop was in fill flow come sundown. Spirits were kept Himalayan once Umbrella Radio’s DJs took to the decls with a Rebel ‘n’ Roll set until the small hours.

With a few of us still kicking come the morn, we stretched the festivities over two days.

Sunday saw us mixing some Bloody Murphys – a Bloody Mary with an Irish slant courtesy once more of the good people at Teeling – and welcoming an Irish trad band through our doors in the early afternoon to transport all of us to our respective happy places.

All in all, a great night full of good craic and plenty of good vibes..

Hope to see you all down Bethnal Green way next time round!

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Non-Specific, March – TST

Posted on 22/03/2018 by atadmin

The 8th March saw a very special edition of Non-Specific, as our very own GM Ciaran Ó Dubhthaigh jumped on our turntables for the eve.

This departure from the norm was to mark the occasion of his imminent departure, since he is off to pastures new – namely, Melbourne in Oz -at the end of the month to get some much-needed sun on that Irish skin.

Ciaran has been an integral part of the team at The Sun from inception almost 4 years ago. In that time he’s helped mould everything from the floorboards up – including curating our vast (not to mention award-winning) Irish whiskey and Poitín collection.

The night itself kicked off as per the norm, with free Banh Mi flying out at breakneck pace.

Before long, the man of the moment had arrived full of beans and took to the decks, throwing out tunes that pushed Non-Specific rock ‘n’ roll to heavy new heights.

As ever, Ciaran was a hit – he got the crowd going, kept them in, and brought the good vibes.. and many, many shots of whiskey.

Who knows what’s next in store for our soon-to-be former GM, but none of us here have any doubts that he’ll be a resounding success down under. Best of luck matey!

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Non-Specific, February – TST

Posted on 20/02/2018 by atadmin

On February 15th, Trampolene frontman Jack Jones joined us to spin another set of Non-Specific Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Fresh from supporting Liam Gallagher and touring the country, the boy from south Wales was back in town and headed Sun Tavern-wards to take his place at our decks.

To mark the occasion, we were all treated to an exclusive first hearing of “Swim Up” – Jack’s latest side-project away from his regular ensemble Trampolene.

Besides that the night was packed with an eclectic mix of musical numbers, with everything from Plastic Bertrand to Primal Scream being thrown out by Mr Jones.

Speaking of, our flyer art for this month was heavily inspired by Primal Scream’s seminal 1991 album, Screamadelica – made using turmeric, grapes, and black peppercorns.

Tastier-sounding delicacies than that were being handed out on the night, with large quantities of free Bánh Mi leaving our storerooms at speed.

As per the norm, a merry old time was had by all. If you missed out on this rendition of Non-Specific never fear, we’ll be back next month – March 8th will see our soon-to-be departed General Manager Ciarán Ó Dubhthaigh jumping on the 1s and 2s for what’s gearing up to be a very special night.

Hope to see you all there for a dram and a knees-up.

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Burns’ Night 2018 – TST

Posted on 06/02/2018 by atadmin

The eve of 26th January heralded the return of Burns’ Night to The Sun Tavern, the night during which we pay our respects to the great Rabbie Burns -‘Scottish national poet’, waxer lyrical on haggis, mice and red, red roses.

The night kicked off with a spot of spoken word. Our good friend and poet, Will Conway, took to the stage and gave us all a stirring rendition of ‘A Red, Red Rose’ in honour of the great man himself, before moving on to a couple of his own lyrical creations.

Meanwhile, the free haggis scotch eggs courtesy of Pig & Hay started making their way out. These proved to be a smash hit – with our stores emptied long before midnight!

As is tradition on Burns’ Night, next up came the age-old address of the haggis. The honour in this case belonged to Rennie – from Scottish legends The View – who took to the stage and recited the customary verses before jumping onto the decks and throwing out some rock ‘n’ roll classics.

Not before he sprinkled the room with a dash of patriotism, however, as a bagpipe-heavy rendition of ‘Scotland the Brave’ was selected for his first tune.

In terms of the liquids, we at The Sun Tavern teamed up with The Balvenie to create a Scotch heavy cocktail in tribute to the Ploughman Poet, which was available on the night for a discounted rate – the aptly named Wha Hae.

It went down a treat. Balvenie DoubleWood, Amaro Montenegro, Winter red ale syrup & oak bitters all came together to create a drink of rare depth. A fine balance of malty sweetness, against the Amaro’s herbaceous bitterness, were all grounded by the Balvenie DoubleWood 12yr and the oak bitters.

For those who came and preferred their Scotch a little neater, there was our award-winning Whisky list to work through! And work through it they did, with the nectar flowing readily all evening long.

A big thank you to everyone who came down and made this such a great night, hope to see you all again next year!

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The Sun Tavern – 6th Menu

Posted on 13/11/2017 by atadmin

We had a little chat with Connor and Jamie who were the two main curators of this menu, here is what the had to say…

Jamie: The concept behind the menu was indigenous spirits. Obviously here at The Sun Tavern we make a big deal of Poitín which is indigenous to Ireland and so then wanted to bring to light other national spirits. Also to use spirits that other bars aren’t using and people might not know about. Then, trying to create some really interesting cocktails around those spirits.

Bianca – Grappa, Lemon, Honey & Chinook Hop Tincture

Connor: So the Bianca is a Grappa drink. Most people associate Grappa with ‘knocking it back’ or sipping it in Italy, you know? We just wanted to make it more accessible to a wider crowd. We used Tosolini Grappa, quite light in flavour and a little citrusy. From there we chose the Chinook Hop Tincture, kept it very simple, very classic with a little bit of sweetness. There is a bit of egg white in there so that the texture is the same for every sip. In a coupet with a lemon twist and Bianca actually means white in Italian, with Grappa being a clear and clean-cut spirit we thought that was a vibe.

Sir Banks Fix – Quiquiriqui Mezcal, Kummel, Lime and Pineapple & Eucalyptus Syrup

Jamie: This cocktail is based around a classic called a ‘Fix’. We’d normally have used pineapple juice coming from a ‘Fix’, but in this case we’ve made a pineapple and eucalyptus cordial. There is Mezcal in there which works really well with the kummel, also Mezcal is indigenous to Mexico. It’s smokier than Tequila that goes with the pineapple and other tropical drinks. The vessel we’re using is a small tankard which looks nice, quite old school. It’s also quite fitting to the drink as it’s an old style of cocktail. Garnished with some eucalyptus leaves and Sir Banks was the man who introduced eucalyptus to the west, so I thought I’d give him a little mention.

Amrita – Bushmills Black Bush Whiskey, Mead, Fernet, Honey & Stout Cream

Connor: So the Amrita. We started out with using mead, which has become quite popular in drinks now, especially beer. We wanted it to be quite heavy, almost like a dessert Manhattan, hence the cream float. ‘Amrita’ is an old Medieval word that means ‘immortality’ and is commonly referred to ‘nectar’. Not really a light sipper, a pretty heavy one at that. Nutmeg on top, very sweet and booze heavy as well.

Balkan Promise – Slivovitz, Pisco, Plum & Vanilla Syrup & Abbot’s Bitters

Jamie: The Balkan Promise’s inspiration was a Pisco Sour. We obviously use pisco but we also use something called slivovitz which is an old style plumb brandy and this one you’ll find comes from Poland, which is on the Balkan Peninsula or Balkan Coast. So we used the Sklar Slivovitz, then I made a plumb and vanilla syrup which adds a nice wintery touch. The drink is in a Nik and Nora, looks good with the foam and some black sesame for the garnish, which contrasts nicely.

The Three C’s – Cachaca, Cocchi Torino, Homemade Glogg, Green Chartreuse & Angostura Bitters

Connor: The Three C’s is more of a bitter drink in comparison to the other drinks on the menu. We needed a stirred down, bitter drink for people who want that Negroni or Boulevardier sort of style. It’s a little more floral using the Cachaca. We also use Homemade Glogg which is essentially a Scandinavian style of mould wine that uses grape juice. We added Italicus which is a bergamot liqueur and that nicely lifts the drink with the spice base.

The Root Of It – Bán Poitín, Averna, Ruby Port & Pecan Bitters

Connor: This drink was one of our colleagues Jason actually. We wanted an Old Fashioned style of drink for this menu and because of our love Poitín we went down that route. You’ve got heavy Ruby Port in there and Averna which makes for deep chocolate and coffee notes. Then we used Bán Poitín because the starchiness of the Potatoes that are used in the production really come through and place very well with those deep flavours. Not you’re usual Poitín style drink but we reckon we’ve managed to make it a bit more autumnal. Then to round it off with a little pecan bitters at the end to add little spice dimension there.

The Penelopes #3 – Arrack, Dolin Dry Vermouth, Amontillado Sherry, Lime, Coconut, Angostura Bitters. Topped with Umbrella Brewing Ginger Beer

Jamie: We wanted a longer style drink, we’ve some quite heavy drinks already and we wanted to use Arrack again. It’s a Sri Lankan spirit distilled from the sap of coconut leaves and so has a really nice flavour. We thought we’d use that along with the Umbrella Brewing Ginger Beer, coconut and Dolin Dry Vermouth. The name came from that one of our bartenders Quentin is in a band called ‘The Penelopes’ and they’re some of our best customers. Comes in a highball, topped with crushed ice and to garnish, just a nice seasonal flower.

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London Cocktail Week 2017 – DSC

Posted on 10/10/2017 by atadmin

Drink Up London’s, London Cocktail Week 2017 DSC saw a belter of a drink down at the bar.

Benandonner – Elements of Islay Whisky PEAT, Ruby Port, Millionaire Syrup & Lemon

The cocktail was somewhat inspired by the ‘Giant’s Causeway’, with Element’s Of Islay PEAT whisky taking centre stage. The drink was named after a Scottish giant named Benandonner, who was scared off babies…

He was a fearsome beast of a giant with flaming red hair and an extremely burly beard. As you might imagine, he was not known for his placid nature. One day Benandonner challenged Irish giant Finn-Maccool to a fight by yelling terrible insults across the sea.

“Yar boo and sucks,” retorted Finn-Maccool. “You think you’re so tough. Well, come here and say that!”. To prove he meant business, he single handedly constructed a bridge across the sea stretching all the way from Ireland to Scotland.

Benandonner eagerly stumbled across the Giant’s Causeway for the wrestling match of the century. When he stepped on to Irish soil there was no sign of his rival. Instead he noticed a giant baby almost as big as he.

“Och, if that’s the wee baby bairn, what must the daddy be like?” he thought. Benandonner was large, but not that large. In a panic, he decided he’d been there and done that and fled back to Scotland, tearing the Causeway apart as he went.

The giant baby laughed. It was Finn-Maccool wrapped in a huge sheet. Another triumph for Ireland’s sneakiest giant.

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National Tequila Day – Guest Cocktails – DSC

Posted on 03/07/2017 by atadmin

To commemorate National Tequila Day here at DSC, we’ve four classically inspired concoctions, from four staples of Tequila distillation.

Following the success of June’s 4 guest Gin cocktails for World Gin Day, why not do the same for Tequila?

Like the Gin drinks, each drink this month is from a different distillery but unlike the Gin ones, they are all from the same country, Mexico. Enable to call a spirit tequila it must be distilled with Blue Agave and must be from the Tequila region in Mexico in the state of Jalisco.

HACIENDA – TEQUILA HERRADURA

Tequila Herradura was founded by Félix López in 1870. It remained within his family for 125 years and still produces tequila in the Amatitán, Jalisco region of Mexico today.

Herradura Anejo, Byrrh, Rittenhouse 100, Agave Syrup, Jerry Thomas Bitters

TOMMY’S MARGARITA – TEQUILA FORTALEZA

Tequila Fortaleza is only a shade over 10 years old but has 140 years of history behind distilling tequila. They use the same copper pot stills that were built more than 100 years ago.

Fortaleza Reposado, Lime & Agave

BEYOND THE ROCKS – TEQUILA TAPATIO

Don Felipe Camarena’s family distillery was destroyed and left derelict in the Mexican Revolution. In 1937 he opened La Alteña Distillery in 1937 who now produces Tequila Tapatio that we know today.

Tapatio Blanco, Cherry Herring, Pink Grapefruit, Dubonnet Rogue & Pimento Dram

CADAVRE EXQUIS – TEQUILA ARETTE

Tequila Arette is named after a horse of the Orendain family called Arete who won Olympic Gold in Jumping. The family named the brand Arette to celebrate this achievement.

Arette 50%, Italicus Rosalio Di Bergamotto, Cocchi Americano, Citrus & Absinthe

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World Gin Day – Guest Cocktails – DSC

Posted on 01/06/2017 by atadmin

In honour of World Gin Day on the 10^th of June, we thought we’d do something a little different for this month’s Guest Cocktail at Discount Suit Company.

Instead of a single guest cocktail, we’re doing four! Four different martinis with four different gins from four different countries, in fact.

The four gins we’ve chosen are: Four Pillars from Australia, Ki No Bi Gin from Japan, St. George from the USA and Isle of Harris from up in Scotland – you can see what we’ve done with them below…

AUSTRALIA – FOUR PILLARS GIN

Four Pillars are a craft distillery in the Yarra Valley in Australia. They base their products around the ‘four pillars’ that are the still, water, botanicals and their passion.

Four Pillars Gin, Regal Rogue Daring Dry Vermouth & A Black Douce Olive

JAPAN – KI NO BI GIN, THE KYOTO DISTILLERY

The Kyoto Distillery is a craft Japanese distillery that never compromises on quality and are inspired by tradition. They make one product, Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin.

Ki No Bi Gin, Yuzu & Cherry Blossom Cordial

SCOTLAND – ISLE OF HARRIS GIN

Isle of Harris distillery is situated on the Isle of Harris just off the northwestern coast of Scotland. They choose botanicals that they think reflect the flavours of the land.

Isle Of Harris Gin, & Sea Kelp and Juniper Shrub

USA – ST. GEORGE VODKA

St. George Spirits are an artisan distillery based in Alameda, California. They are proud to be independent, innovative and craft.

St. George Vodka and Gin, Kina Lillet & A Citrus Twist

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Cinco de Mayo – DSC

Posted on 12/05/2017 by atadmin

Cinco de Mayo came on a Friday this year, so we had ourselves a Mexican-infused fiesta down at DSC!

The 5^th of May, or ‘Cinco de Mayo’ in Spanish, is a massive day for Mexicans who love to celebrate Mexico’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

The French, then considered the greatest army in the world, invaded Mexico in late 1861 in an attempt to establish a Latin American empire. The Mexicans were having none of it though, and – despite being poorly equipped and outnumbered 6,000 to 2,000 – they decisively crushed the French Army in one of the most famous and unlikely underdog victories in history.

Unsurprisingly, the day has become cause for great celebration and national pride in Mexico – and, as any good neighbour would, The States have started to join in!

We’re always up for a party, and were also keen to get involved in the celebrations with a latino-inspired night at DSC. We designed a special Mezcal-based guest cocktail in honour of the event – named after the colourful Mexican wresters, The Luchador was an awesomely smokey, stirred down blend of Quiquiriqi Mezcal, Amaro Montenegro & Cocchi Rosa – ¡Qué rico!

Tortilla chips and homemade salsa were complimentary on the night, and the bartenders wore Luchador masks, sombreros and moustaches to get in the spirit.

DJ Eli Silverman put together a funky boogaloo set to get people hyped, and the music and dancing carried on late into the night – don’t miss it next year!

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Umbrella Brewing Product Launch – TT Liquor

Posted on 27/03/2017 by atadmin

Thursday 9^th March saw the launch party for Umbrella Brewing and their fiery, cloudy alcoholic ginger beer.

It was set to be a big night from the off, and it didn’t fail to deliver. Fridges were brimming with ginger beer – in fact, it was everywhere you turned. Just past the bridge on Kingsland Road in the newly opened TT Liquor, the scene was set.

As you entered into TT’s bottle shop, there was a tongue-in-cheek photo op, with a replica of one of the five bottle labels – all of which inspired by the Decca 45 sleeves of the ‘60s – as the backdrop.

The ginger beer was flowing as you moved through the venue to a soundtrack of rock ‘n’ roll from Umbrella Radio’s John Robinson, taking in the ‘60s sounds of the acts you’d find inside the sleeves that inspired the bottle artwork.

Spirits were high with ‘The Ginger Beard’ – a whisky and ginger beer based cocktail, and ‘The Cure’ – gin and ginger beer based, being firm favourites with the ever-increasing crowd. Not to mention the beer-and-a-bumps which were flying out.

In the live room, the walls were adorned with Decca 45s and Would skateboards incorporating the same sleeve designs as the bottles, all alongside projections of The Stones in their heyday.

When the crowds were well oiled, Groove-Rock Psychedelics, Tempesst took to the stage for a rip-roaring set, as dynamic as it was infectious. Recent singles ‘Broke Down Blues’ & ‘Tidal Wave’ drew the biggest cheers. Pretty special.

Rennie from Scottish legends The View took over the reins on the ones and twos with an indie soaked rock ‘n’ roll rollercoaster that kept vibes high to the last.

A night to remember, though many might not!

We are glad to announce that Umbrella Brewing is now part of the reception cocktail for both Mixology Events and TT Liquor’s Cocktail Making Classes.

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Dewar’s Whiskey Wednesday – Launch Night

Posted on 16/09/2016 by atadmin

SCOTCH EGGS

SOCTCH WHISKY

SCOTCH COCKTAILS

On Wednesday 7^th September, The Sun Tavern launched their monthly Whiskey Wednesday bespoke cocktail menu in conjunction with Dewar’s Blended Scotch Whisky.

Given that this occasion wasn’t an Irish one they thought they’d go the extra mile for scotch sake!

The Sun Tavern just so happens to have some bangin’ Scotch Eggs on the food menu provided by Pig and Hay. Then it seemed like a no brainer to have a Scotch cocktail and Scotch egg pairing creating the perfect Scotch serve.

The night got off to a great start with whisky cocktails and Scotch eggs flying out, good tunes and a great crowd. From 8 o’clock we had Drew McConnel of the Babyshambles and Helsinki on the ones and twos. He played a great Rebel and Roll set, which featured the likes of The Streets, Beastie Boys, Television and many more. We’d sent out some quality ‘bar boomerangs’ to some of our favourite drinking holes and it was great to see some familiar faces!

We’d sent out some quality ‘bar boomerangs’ to some of our favourite drinking holes and it was great to see some familiar faces! All in all it was a great night and everyone had a good time

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East End Of The Line

Posted on 09/09/2016 by atadmin

START OF A NEW ERA.

THE END OF 4AM UBERS.

On the eve of Transport for London’s launch of the Night Tube, as one of the lines turning nocturnal was the Central Line, we thought over at the ‘East End’ we’d have a party to celebrate a new chapter in London night life. East End of The Line.

It turned into quite the jolly; there were cocktails and Bán Poitín boilermakers departing from all bar stations with no stops till 2am. In honour of the Oyster Card we had the Oyster Boy shucking free Oysters with a choice of Lemon, Tabasco and Raspberry Vinegar with diced shallots to dress them. This went down a treat and in just under 2 hours the Oyster Boy nearly had to top up.

To make the night move like a train we had Umbrella Radio’s very own John Robinson conducting tunes from the end of the drinking platform with a mix of London Rock like Chas & Dave, The Clash, Dr Feelgood and from all around the city.

All in all it was a craic’ing night.

Scroll down for flicks!

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5 Minutes with John Robinson

Posted on 26/08/2016 by atadmin

John spins at both Discount Suit Company and The Sun Tavern most weekends, inbetween recording podcasts for Umbrella Radio.

Let’s start with the fundamentals, Vinyl, CD’s or laptop?

I’d love to say vinyl, but unfortunately it’s CD’s. I was vinyl for years, but since I moved to London it’s been CD’s all the way. I’ve got hundreds of records but they’re all back up North. Didn’t want to be carting them every time I moved…. which was inevitable. It’s much easier on the back as well!

You DJ a lot, but what else do you get up to?

Oh all kinds!! Nah, I’m pretty musical so I do a lot of writing and playing in my spare time, but I do a lot of work with The Umbrella Project guys, curating events and we’ve just been working on some podcasts for the soon to be coming Umbrella Radio which is pretty exciting.

Tell us more…

Well there’s one for Discount Suit Co. and one for The Sun. There’ll be one for Umbrella Brewing which has just kicked off as well. We’ve got some ideas for others too.

What was your last musical epiphany?

It was actually through one of Discount’s regular DJ’s, Anne Frankenstein. It’s called ‘Bad Girl part 1&2’ by a guy called Lee Moses. As soon as he starts singing it’s like he’s on caps lock! He’s so full on man. And the recording of it’s really scrappy as well, which just makes it better. There’s some out of tune horns and loads of hitting reds. And it’s got this amazing line in it…it’s basically about a girl he’s going out with who’s a bad influence or not treating him right and he describes her as “very good, very bad, very good”! I think he laughs at one point too. It’s amazing.

Have you got a favourite concoction from DSC or The Sun?

Ooh….Dorian (DSC’s former manager) used to make me a Chocolate Daiquiri which floated my boat. I really liked the Conference Call as well. It was quite smokey and had a nuttiness. I couldn’t tell you what was in it, but I was a big fan.

What’s your prized possession in your record collection?

I think it’d have to be my first pressing of ‘Catch A Fire’ by The Wailers. It’s the one with the zippo cover. The record label wanted to make them accessible to a rock audience and I think they thought a zippo lighter would do that. They changed the cover after the first few pressings to a picture of Bob Marley with a spliff so the zippo one’s a bit special. It’s one of my favourite albums as well.

Finally, what’s the funniest request you’ve ever had?

Oh, there’s so many. There was one time I was Djing in The Sun, I think I was playing Joy Division. This guy came up to me who the barman had already told me was interested in DJing there too. So he comes up to me and asks “Have you got any Joy Division?” I’m stood there thinking ‘This guy wants to DJ and he’s asking me for the band I’m playing right now?!’ When I told him so, he didn’t bat an eyelid. He just asked “Have you got anything I can dance to?” I realized he was joking while he rattles off all the worst requests he or I had ever heard!! We had him Djing the next week.

There was another guy in DSC one time. I’m stood there at the decks with headphones on and he asks “What CD is this mate?” I told him the name of the song and he said “I know the name of the song mate. I want to know what CD it is. There’ve been some bangers on it” He seemed to think that I was just playing some comp CD, start to finish. I think I laughed in his face.

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Top 5 Tracks – Eli Silverman

Posted on 22/08/2016 by atadmin

Here are Eli’s top five plays at Discount Suit Company

Freddy Mckay – Love Is A Treasure

King Floyd – Groove Me

Young Holt Unlimited – Soulful Strut

Hector Rivera – I Want A Chance For Romance

Anne Sexton – You’re losing me

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Vestal Voyage X Umbrella Brewing

Posted on 22/08/2016 by atadmin

On probably the nicest Monday of the year, The Umbrella Project along with Umbrella Brewing took a few of the lads from Discount Suit Company and The Sun Tavern on a voyage with Vestal Vodka.

The crew assembled in Granary Square where the boat was moored on the Regent’s Canal. Once everyone arrived, Will, the owner of Vestal Vodka, greeted us. After a quick introduction and some safety sh’peel we boarded the Vestal vessel and were off!

We kindly received reception cocktails upon boarding. This made for a very informal and relaxing start to the cruise.

As we progressed down the canal, Will started to go into some of the tasting notes of the different vintages that Vestal do, starting with their first 2011 Vintage.

We then progressed into the 2014 Vintage for comparison and Will went on to explain that although the two different bottles already had their own unique tasting notes, those tasting notes would continue to evolve.

The liquid will over time, slowly start to react with the trapped air inside the bottle that is left after bottling. The flavour profile will therefore slightly change with age.

We were then left to sip our cocktails and top ourselves up if need be! As we floated down the Regents Canal under the Islington tunnel on what was a blistering day.

Will then got the copper still out!

Matt Armitage from Umbrella Brewing had brought along some Ginger Beer to try and distill and make a Ginger Beer spirit and had this to say…

“The creativity that can be seen across their range is personified within Will. His excitement for distilling and openness to try new things lead to us rectifying our Umbrella ginger beer into a 70% ABV spirit, which retained it’s ginger taste but replaced the ginger heat with that of strong alcohol. It was very interesting to see our product transformed through the alchemy of copper pot distillation and all this done from the comfort of a canal boat, going down regent canal. Was all a bit mental and I had a great time.”

Once we had made just about 100ml of Ginger Beer spirit and had a taste, we cruised back the way we came, under the Islington tunnel towards Kings Cross, finishing off our drinks.

All in all the Vestal Voyage was a great success. Will left us with an invite to come to his bar, Ladies and Gents in Kentish Town and distill some more Ginger Beer on their 12 litre still they have there.

We can’t wait! Thanks for having us Vestal!

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Top 5 Tracks – Anne Frankenstein

Posted on 10/08/2016 by atadmin

DJ Anne Frankenstien’s Top 5 bangers she likes to bust out at Discount Suit Company.

Enjoy the soul.

She’s Not Just Another Woman – 8th Day

Super Duper Love – Sugar Billy (NOT Joss Stone as Tommy loves to say)

Me and My Baby Got a Good Thing Going – Lyn Collins

Queen of Losers – Eleanor Rigby

Whalebone – Lester Stirling

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5 minutes with Anne Frankenstein

Posted on 03/08/2016 by atadmin

Anne is one of DSC’s regular DJ’s.

You can catch her most weeks playing her Soul & Funk gems. Strictly vinyl!

You seem to DJ most of the week. What keeps you busy when you’re not?

What do I do? Well I work in a record shop (Flashback Records in Bethnal Green) on Saturdays, more for the purposes of getting cheap records than anything else! I do radio and I took up running a couple months ago. I find that DJing can be a little isolating as well, so I make sure that I’m keeping in touch with friends and other DJ’s. And also, now the sun’s come out I’m playing basketball all the time. It’s the funnest thing in the world! Up to Hackney Downs, and shoot some hoops!

Ah, so you’re a big into your basketball?

No, oh god. What I lack in skill, I make up for in unbridled enthusiasm! It’s great fun though.

Have you got anything I can dance to?! What’s the funniest request you’ve ever received?

I was playing an event and they just wanted pure soul so I was playing Marvin Gaye. A woman came up to me, she was quite drunk, and she asked “Can you play something smoochier?”

Now, it’s my understanding that ‘smoochy’ isn’t in the dictionary, but I’d say Marvin Gaye, by definition, is pretty ‘smoochy’. There was a lady in Discount one time, again pretty drunk, and she kept asking for Meatloaf and AC/DC. I told her it was strictly Funk and Soul, so she says “OK, Funk and Soul, Funk and Soul……Brian Adams!”

Have you got a favourite concoction from DSC?

This stuff is wasted on me. I’ve got the palate of a three year old and everything’s got quite a kick to it. I’m always offending the guys when I pull a funny face when I try them. They sometimes make me a Daiquiri which is great, but I have to wait till near the end because they’re so boozy for me.

@djannefrankensein

What was your last musical epiphany?

Because I do radio, I have to find a new playlist every week, so I’m always discovering tunes that completely blow my mind. There’s this African guy called Francis Bebey who made records in the 70’s. I think he was a real traditional West African musician. Then he decided he wanted to have success in the West, so he found a synth and made an album. He has a song called ‘The Coffee Cola Song’ which is so Summery and weird. It’s like when the 60’s or the 70’s just spits something out and you’re like ‘Where the fuck did that come from?’ because there’s nothing like it.

You can slip in a little Ska or Rocksteady at DSC, but have you ever done ‘Rewind!?!?!’

I’ve never literally said those words!! Sometimes if I double deck with someone I’d do something like that.

Finally, what’s your most treasured platter in your collection?

I was in America last year, around Nashville and Memphis, New Orleans. Man, there was this one record shop in Memphis called Shangri-la. At first I walked in and thought there were no 7”s, turned a corner and there was a whole wall that just said ’SOUL’. It was 34°C outside and I spent the whole day in there! Everything I’d ever been looking for turned up in those boxes. A few Joe Tex singles, but I’d say ‘Sweet Inspiration’ by The Sweet Inspirations – such a gorgeous gospely track.

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5 minutes with Eli Silverman

Posted on 06/07/2016 by atadmin

Eli is our serial crate-digger and specialist in all styles.

Catch him DJing at DSC on Fridays.

You DJ a hell of a lot, but what else keeps you occupied?

I am an actor, comedian and professional call centre employee. I also do a podcast – The Cheapshow, that’s a comedy thing. We’re on the 25^th episode and it’s been accruing listeners quite a lot recently. I’ve been appearing in a YouTube channel as well. It’s called Barshens – two old school YouTubers joined forces and I’m appearing in a lot of their videos.

Do you have a favourite DSC concoction, past or present?

I think it would be the Charlie Chaplin, if you remember that one. It’s like old school sweeties. It has sweet brandy, very smooth. It’s the kind of cocktail you can drink about five of.

Have you got anything I like?! What’s the funniest request you’ve had?

I’ll always try and listen to requests but it depends on if I have it, and if it fits with what I’m playing. A guy the other night asked to make a request then asked to see my playlist. This guy just wanted to make a request – that was his request! It’s not like he had a tune in his head.

Another guy came up to me once telling me how great a job I was doing and how much he loved it. Then he requested ‘War’ by Edwin Starr and I didn’t have copy. He immediately turned on me, “Call yourself a DJ and you don’t have that??!!”. I was like, ‘Hold on, I was “Great” a minute ago!’

So you’ve supped your 5 Charlie Chaplins, and you need to use the water closet. What’s your song of choice to give you ample time to make it there and back?

It has to be Disco for these kind of tunes. I call them ‘Triple-S’ tunes – shower, sh*t and a shave! So Disco-mixes. I don’t know how reliable this is, but original Disco DJ’s insist the original extended Disco-mix was invented so the DJ could go to the toilet and do whatever they needed to do! Less DJing, more partying ‘cos it was such a hedonistic scene.

The one I use a lot is ‘Overdose Of Love’ by Lowrell. You can maybe even get a bit of a smoke as well!

What’s your prized possession from your record collection?

It’s difficult to say but I think I’d have to go with this BBC for schools record I picked up in a charity shop. It’s called ‘Mind, Music & Movement’ and on one side it’s all these exercises for classical instruments, but the other side is the Radiophonic Orchestra doing weird experimental synthesizer music. I’d never even seen it listed anywhere. That kind of thing really…tickles my li li, you know what I’m saying. I don’t know how much it’s worth and I’ve probably got things that are worth more, but I think it’s my favourite just for the obscurity.

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Interview: Darryl McNally

Posted on 21/06/2016 by atadmin

Darryl McNally was recently appointed as Master Distiller of Quintessential Brands’ The Dubliner Irish Whiskey and The Dublin Liberties.

We managed to sit down for a quick 5 minutes with him in The Sun Tavern…

How did you get into distillation?

Well lucky I guess eh? So, I started working for Bushmills Distillery about 1998 and I got into the packaging side of things. Then I guess it became a hobby and then you get paid for your hobby!

…I was taking more than most, I was like a child in a candy shop and got bitten by the bug then

So I think the realisation was that on one Thursday there was 67 different types of Irish Whiskey sitting around the lab and everyone was taking small tastes of them, and I was taking more than most, I was like a child in a candy shop and got bitten by the bug then.

Being Irish… Irish Whiskey… It just became special. I then worked for Bushmills for 17 years before then moving to other areas of Irish Whiskey, so it’s been good.

Cupa Tay – Lapsang tea, Dubliner Irish Whiskey Honeycomb & Bitters

How is the new distillery coming along?

The new distillery is coming along really well. We have the correct site now in Dublin city very close to all the visitors that come to visit Dublin. It is quite ‘boutique-ey’, but we are going to have quite a bit of volume coming out of it.

So its about thirty thousand square feet, which is probably much larger than most of the larger pubs in London and it will be a working distillery as well as bringing visitors in from Dublin City. It is in the area known as the ‘Liberties’, so it’s the area that all the beers and the whiskies and all the brothels were at over a number of years. So It’s quite dark and is going to be a really good project.

…I think with the name of ‘The Dubliner’ and the Dublin Liberties behind you, it’ll sell, it’ll sell

At the minute, I pretty much have the process side designed in order to make a good spirit and then a good Whiskey. I have a lot of good suppliers that supply good quality bourbon casks, sherry casks and port casks. So we want to do something innovative, make the normal blended whiskies but also want to have some aged malts as we progress and I think with the name of ‘The Dubliner’ and the Dublin Liberties behind you, it’ll sell, it’ll sell.

The product is very, very special so those two together and a new distillery has a bit of providence and a good bid for the future.

Coffey No Craic – Dubliner Irish Whiskey, Escobac & Peach bitters

So is the distillery in the ‘Golden Triangle’ then?

It is in the triangle. It’s right down near Christ Church and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, walking distance from the city centre. The whole area is getting a lot of up-lift and spend, a lot of new offices and houses being built and a few new distilleries too! So it has to be good!

How is The Dubliner Whiskey doing since it’s release last year?

Yeah, the Dubliner has only been around for a year, but I think it’s a good introduction to whiskey. The Dubliner as a blended whiskey is very special. I think a lot of people can relate to it, when the younger generation think about whiskey they think about scotch and they think about the peaty-ness of it. But Dubliner is very easy, it doesn’t burn, it warms, like a warm Irish welcome. The Dubliner blend is such a nice introduction to Irish Whiskey when you drink it with ice, with a mixer, or when used as a cocktail base, it’s perfect.

You have Jameson who sell a lot of whiskey worldwide and you have Bushmills, I think these new blends and distilleries coming out can only help the Irish Whiskey market.

…The Dubliner is going to tick all the boxes everyday.

You look at whiskey from Scotland, which essentially 90 million cases or so, Irish whiskey is only around 7 million, so we have a lot of room to grow. In all the global markets now, people expect a nice quality whiskey and when they talk about Irish, The Dubliner is going to tick all the boxes everyday.

How do you think the Irish Whiskey category has developed in the last few years?

Well I have been in the industry for the last 17 or 18 years and have seen come on from a Scotch perspective, Irish whiskey is only a small amount, about 4% of the global whiskey market, but I think people are starting to like all things irish! As I say there are 7 million people in the whole of Ireland, but there is 70 million worldwide! People always feel welcomed by Irish people and relate to them, so I can only see a growth over the next five to ten years.

We believe that Irish Whiskey will grow to about 24 million cases, we’re sitting at 7 at the minute. We reckon that this will happen over the next 10 to 14 years. So you need a lot of Distilleries built and a lot of whiskey laid down to have the product there by 2030, and that is what we intend to do!

The Old Divil – Liberties Irish Whiskey, Aperol, Orange, Lemon & Cherry bitters

Can you tell us what you offer in your current range?

So we have The Dubliner Irish Whiskey Bourbon cask, The Dubliner Irish Whiskey Honeycomb Liqueur, The Dubliner Irish Whiskey 10 Year Old and The Dubliner Liberties Oak Devil and another new Dublin Liberties coming out very soon.

What taste notes can you expect from The Dubliner?

Well, it’s a blended whiskey, malt and grain. There is quite a high proportion of creamy grain, which compliments the malt, so you have these lovely vanilla flavours coming through.

You don’t have any burn or any peaty-ness, you have a nice spicy, zesty finish with what I always say when I’m drinking The Dubliner, is that it’s almost a Christmas cake like malty-ness you get with a lovely creamy grain to coming over that, which balances it out nicely.

How do you like to drink it?

The way I like to drink it? I like to tip some out, over a few cubes of ice which just cools the whiskey down but don’t let the ice melt too much. All you need is a little bit of water to open up the whiskey. You can taste much better at 20% (abv) rather than 40%, so that little bit of water in there really gets your taste buds flowing and you can enjoy it with a few of your mates.

What do you think about Whiskey Wednesdays?

I think it’s great. You know the amount of people now in Dublin alone and in the whole of Ireland that are attending all these whiskey clubs and whiskey bars, there seems to be a real interest in the category now.

For the younger generation, it really opens them up to whiskey and changes the perception that only old men drink whiskey because your introducing whiskey to them in a format that they already have an interest in which is cocktails.

What do you think of The Sun Tavern then?

I think it’s cool, a really trendy bar. I’m just looking at the supply of Whiskey that you have on the shelf. It’s pretty impressive.

It’s nearly as impressive as the whiskey supply I have back home from picking them up over the years!

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Boozy Brunch Bevvies

Posted on 09/06/2016 by atadmin

In addition to the recent Bloody Mary Menu, Sundays at The Sun Tavern have got a little better and a little boozier with the introduction of their Boozy Brunch Bevvies featured on the back of the Bloody Mary Menu for under 6 quid!

First up along with the Bloody Marys…

Michelada – Homemade Sangrita Mix, Lime and Sun spice blend – Served with a can of FourPure beer of your choice – £5

Sun-grita – Shot of Quiquiriqui Mezcal and a shot of homemade sangrita mix – £5

Then on the other side… Boozy Brunch Bevvies

Mimosa – Freshly squeezed Orange juice, topped with house fizz – £5

Breakfast Sour – Gin, Aperol, Fresh Pink Grapefruit, Lemon & Toasted Marmalade Syrup – £6

Pickled Pineapple Bellini – Pineapple, Coriander, Scotch Bonnet Pepper, Vinegar & House Fizz – £6

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5 Minutes with Paul Day

Posted on 09/06/2016 by atadmin

Paul Day is a regular DJ at both The Sun Tavern & Discount Suit Co. – as versatile as he is natty.

Chances are he’ll be spinning platters at one or the other come the weekend…

You’re well known round these parts for your ’Absolutely No Requests’ sign. What’s the funniest request you’ve ever had?

Slap bang in the middle of Psyche/Garage set a girl approached me and asked for ‘Africa’ by Toto! When I told her no, she looked like I’d killed her child! She couldn’t understand why I wouldn’t play it. I’ve also had a guy come up to me and ask if he can look through my DVD’s. He saw my 7”s and actually thought I was selling DVD’s.

You’re also known for your taste for red wine, but do you have a favourite concoction from Discount Suit Company or The Sun Tavern, past or present?

Well once there was pomegranate & tabasco, courtesy of Tommy (Discount’s jovial Northern barman) when he switched drinks on me, that was hideous! In The Sun I had ‘The Doris’, that’s awesome. If you want Pomegranate & tabasco though……..speak to Tommy.

What’s was the last record you heard which changed your life for a second?

Les Lutines – ‘La Junglomanie’
They’re a Garage band from Montreal and it was a song I had on a mixtape back in about ’98 and I never knew what it was. Quite recently I played the flip side of a Japanese reissue of a song by a completely different band and I literally couldn’t believe it, it was the tune. It’s a crazy track, instrumental. Really short and sweet.

What’s your prize possession in your record collection?

My dad was in a band in the 60’s – Margo and The Marvettes, and bizarrely I found a 45 from 1964 when I was in America. It’s called ‘Say You Will’. I don’t even think my dad’s got it!

Amazing. What did your dad say when you told him?

He just found it funny. he doesn’t see why anyone would be interested anymore.

Your stood at the decks, a few glasses of red wine in, and mother nature calls. what’s your tune of choice to ensure you have enough time to get to the toilet and back?

Spanky Wilson – ’Sunshine Of Your Love’
It’s three and a half minutes long. Just enough, that’s alright. In fact that’s plenty of time.

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Interview: Dave Mulligan – Bán Poitín

Posted on 14/03/2016 by atadmin

Here is Dave Mulligan, co-founder of Bán Poitín, giving us an insight to his relationship with The Sun Tavern in Bethnal Green, the infamous spirit of poitín and his sprirt brand Bán Poitín.

This is the first interview in a series of videos that The Umbrella Project will be releasing with brand owners, ambassadors local heroes and our friends.

You can buy a bottle of Bán Poitín from The Sun Tavern’s online bottle shop.

Here are some of The Sun Tavern’s cocktails that use Bán Poitín…

Mother Bucker – Bán Poitín, Buckfast, Bold Cherry Aperitif, Fresh Orange, Lemon and Angostura Bitters, topped with Club Soda

Bánshee – Bán Poitín, Vulson White Rhino Rye, Yellow Chartreuse, Homemade Lime Cordial & Lime Juice

Galway Bay – Bán Poitín, Homemade Lime Cordial, Citric Acid & a Bay Leaf

Power to your Elbow – Bán Poitín, Amaro Montenegro, Black Sheep Espresso & Fourpure Oatmeal Stout

Mountain Dew – Bán Poitín, Lillet Blanc, Tripple Sec, Violette & Lemon Juice

You can buy a bottle of Bán Poitín from The Sun Tavern’s online bottle shop.

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Bloody Marys on a Sunday

Posted on 29/01/2016 by atadmin

Spice up your Sunday with The Sun Tavern’s Bloody Mary hangover cures…

Running every Sunday, this will include a TST twist on a classic Bloody Mary, an irish inspired take, the Bloody Murphy and finally, the Mad Mary with an optional meat stick.

The Sun Tavern Bloody Mary – Vodka, Sun Spice Mix, Fresh Tomato Juice & Celery – £7

Bloody Murphy – Poitín, Sun Spice Mix, Fresh Tomato Juice, Sherry Vinegar & Stout – £7

Mad Mary – Homemade Angry Chilli Vodka, Sun Spice Mix, Fresh Tomato Juice, Meat Stick (optional) – £10

Ask at the bar for more info…

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Quentin Derudas – Burns Sipper

Posted on 25/01/2016 by atadmin

Tell us who you are…

Who am I…? I am Quentin Derudas, I’m 25 and from a place called Lille in Northern France. I’ve been in London for 2 and a half years and have been working for the Umbrella Project at The Sun Tavern on Bethnal Green Road for about a year now, since it opened basically. That’s pretty much it.

What was the inspiration behind your drink for the competition of the January edition of the DSC guest cocktail in homage to Burns Night?

So the cocktail competition itself was based around Bobby Burns, which is essentially a Scotch based Manhattan. So obviously that was the drink my cocktail was based on making it the inspiration. I am also familiar with other classic scotch based cocktails, in particular the ‘Blood and Sand’, which uses Scotch, orange juice, sweet vermouth and cherry liqueur. This influenced me as well, as you find all these ingredients and flavours in my drink.

How do you feel about winning the competition?

I can’t believe it, haha! One year ago I started bar backing and just one year later I am doing this, so it feels quick, fast, in one year. If you had said to me one year ago that ‘oh, you’re going to be on the Discount menu’, when I didn’t know how to make cocktails, I would not have believed you.

Especially, as I consider this bar a proper, good bar. So it’s like the next level of appreciation up from where I work, you know? Like… It’s different because it’s all cocktails so it’s a bit more edgy.

So what did you win other than having your drink on the DSC menu?

Apparently… You know Rob? From Woodford? He asked me if I would like to go to The Savoy, it is an amazing place, so we’re going to go there.

So you’re in a band…?

Yes! So my band are called High Safari and I have been with these guys for a year and a half now. Music is one big reason why I am in London, the main and first reason. We are five people, 3 guys, 2 girls. We play kind of indie, surf-ey, guitar-ey, pop music. Basically pop music with loads of guitars, good lyrics and good vibes. We’re trying to make good music and good songs basically…

Any gigs?

Not till next year at the end of January, on the 30^th, at the Queen of Hoxton, which is a good venue. We really wanted to play there, so we are quite excited about it! It should be a good night, apparently with DJ’s and a party till like 3am. Sounds good!

So is your main plan to go and be successful in the music industry with your band?

Yeah definitely! A musician, to be a professional musician.

Have you had any interest from labels?

Not as such really, but I remember one guy approached us after we played a gig and he proposed a five year deal. We were like 5 years for a start is a bit too much. We don’t want to be tied down in something that quickly you know? It’s such a big thing, a five-year contract. Especially for a young band like us, we’d miss some experience a long the way. We are getting there but we’ve supported some signed bands as well like a band called ‘Kid Wave’, who are quite big and are signed to Heavenly Recordings, one of the best labels in London, even the UK in fact.

What do you play in the band?

I play guitar, lead guitar. All the fancy riffs and solos are mine! Hahaha!

How long have you been playing?

Since I was 6 years old, so nearly 20 years now. The guitar I started when I was ten, so 15 years for that. I was taught the classical background from when I was 6.

How did you get your job at The Sun Tavern?

Uuh… It is somewhat linked to the band haha. I was looking for a job and I had been working in pubs, restaurants and the service industry for a year in West London. I was trying to make the move to East London to go to a place that was a bit more Rock ’n’ Roll, you know? That sort of thing. So my guitarist, Liz, actually knew Ciaran, who is the GM at The Sun Tavern. She told me; you should get in touch with him, he is my mate, he is opening a bar and he needs some staff. So I got in touch with him and did a trial shift and that’s it really.

Do you enjoy working for The Sun Tavern?

Yeah yeah, its good stuff man. Especially more now that I’ve moved up to bar tending. But I think it was good to bar back before, because I think it makes you a better bar tender as you are more aware of all sorts of things, like stocking up all the time and putting glasses back. This really makes the difference at the end of the night.

What do you normally like to drink?

Normally I like to drink old fashioned, booze only drinks. A lot of them have French names but that is not something I do purposefully, like the Vieux Carré, the Bijou. I love Chartreuse, so like the Bijou has Chertreuse, Gin and Sweet Vermouth mixed together. Whiskey drinks mainly though, I love Whiskey. I remember Ciaran said to me what do you like to drink? And I said Whiskey, and he said well you’re in the right place and this is going to help you working here! I love beer as well, that’s another benefit of working at The Sun Tavern, they have great beer. I like very hoppy Pale Ales, IPA’s and those types of things. Oh, and Stout. Not too big on lagers or fruity stuff.

So other than bar tending or playing music, what other things do you do with your time?

Not much to be honest, they are what fill my time; they take a lot of time. But both bar tending and music are linked in that you have fun doing them. But really I like to enjoy my life I guess.

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Quentin Derudas – Burns Sipper (FRENCH)

Posted on 10/12/2015 by atadmin

Dites nous qui vous êtes…

Qui je suis? Je m’appelle Quentin Derudas, j’ai 25 ans et je viens de la ville de Lille dans le nord de la France. Cela fait 2 ans et demi que je vis à Londres et 1 an que je travaille au Sun Tavern sur Bethnal Green Road pour Umbrella Project, depuis que le bar a ouvert en fait.

En janvier dernier, vous avez présenté un cocktail à la compétition organisée par Discount Suit Company en hommage à la Burns Night. Où avez-vous trouvé l’inspiration ?

La compétition était centrée sur le Bobby Burns, un Manhattan à base de Scotch. Du coup, le cocktail que j’ai créé partait de cette base.
Je connais aussi d’autres recettes classiques à base de Scotch, comme le « Blood and Sand » dans lequel on trouve du Scotch, du jus d’orange, du sweet vermouth et de la liqueur de cerise. Ce cocktail m’a pas mal influencé, c’est d’ailleurs la raison pour laquelle on retrouve ces ingrédients et saveurs dans celui que j’ai créé.

Ça vous fait quel effet d’avoir gagner ?

Je n’arrive pas à y croire (rires) ! Il y a un an, je démarrais en faisant la plonge et maintenant je gagne un concours. C’est rapide, en un an… Si vous m’aviez dit « hé, tu seras sur le menu du Discount Suit Company l’année prochaine» quand j’ai commencé et que je ne savais pas faire un cocktail, je ne vous aurais pas cru. Surtout que je considère le DSC comme un véritable et excellent bar à cocktails. C’est le niveau au dessus du bar dans lequel je travaille.

Cette victoire vous a-t-elle apporté autre chose que le fait de voir votre cocktail sur le menu du DSC ?

Vous connaissez Rob du Woodford ? Il m’a demandé si je voulais aller au Savoy, c’est un endroit extraordinaire, du coup on va y aller !

On m’a dit que vous faisiez partie d’un groupe…

Oui ! Le groupe s’appelle High Safari et ça fait un an et demi que j’en fais partie. La musique est la raison principale de ma présence à Londres. Nous sommes 5 dans le groupe, 3 garçons et 2 filles. On joue de la musique indie-pop avec beaucoup guitare, beaucoup de bonnes ondes et des textes sympas. On essaie de faire de la bonne musique et des bonnes chansons.

Des concerts de prévus ?

Le 30 janvier 2016, au Queen of Hoxton, une super salle. On avait vraiment envie d’y jouer, du coup on est très excités ! Ça va être une super soirée, avec un DJ et la fête jusqu’à 3 heures du matin.

L’idée c’est de faire carrière dans la musique ?

Tout à fait ! Je veux devenir un musicien professionnel.

Avez-vous été approché par des labels ?

Pas vraiment, non, mais je me souviens d’un homme qui nous avait abordé après un concert et il nous a proposé un contrat de 5 ans. On a trouvé que 5 ans pour commencer c’était trop. On n’a pas envie d’être coincés dans un contrat pendant si longtemps si vite. Ce n’est pas à prendre à la légère, surtout pour un jeune groupe comme le notre, il nous faut plus d’expérience, on passerait à côté de nombreuses choses. On a joué avec des groupes signés déjà, comme « Kid Wave ». Ils sont assez grands, ils ont signés avec Heavenly Recordings, un des meilleurs labels de Londres, de l’Angleterre même.

Tu joues de quel instrument dans le groupe ?

La guitare. Celle qui mène, les supers solos et les envolées musicales c’est moi ! (rires) Je fais de la musique depuis que j’ai 6 ans, ça fait donc 20 ans bientôt. La guitare, j’ai commencé à 10 ans, il y a 15 ans.

Comment avez-vous été embauché au Sun Tavern ?

C’est lié à mon groupe d’une certaine manière. Je cherchais un travail et j’avais déjà travaillé dans des pubs, restaurants, l’industrie du service quoi, durant un an dans l’ouest londonien. Je tentais de partir vivre à l’est de Londres, plus Rock ‘n’ Roll… Alors Liz, une des guitaristes du groupe, connais Ciaran, le manager du Sun Tavern. Elle ‘ma dit de la contacter, que c’était son pote et qu’il avait besoin de personnel pour le bar qu’il ouvrait. Je l’ai contacté, j’ai fait un essai et puis voilà.

Ça vous plaît de travailler pour le Sun Tavern ?

Oui, carrément ! Surtout depuis que je suis passé barman. Mais je suis content d’avoir été à l’arrière du bar avant, je pense que ça fait de moi un meilleur barman, on se rend mieux compte du travail en amont et en aval, comme le restockage constant des ingrédients, les verres, etc. Ça fait vraiment la différence.

Qu’est ce que tu bois d’habitude ?

D’habitude je bois des classiques. Beaucoup ont des noms français mais ça n’a rien à voir avec le fait que je les aime ! Comme le Vieux Carré ou le Bijou. J’adore la chartreuse, et le Bijou a de la chartreuse, du Gin et du Sweet Vermouth. Sinon, j’aime beaucoup les cocktails à base de whisky, j’adore le whisky. Je me souviens de Ciaran me demandant ce que je voudrais boire, j’ai répondu « un whisky », et il m’a dit que j’étais au bon endroit et que ça m’aiderait à travailler là bas ! Et puis la bière aussi, j’adore la bière et c’est génial de travailler au Sun Tavern quand on aime la bière parce qu’ils en ont des fantastiques. J’aime particulièrement les Pales Ales dans lesquelles on sent bien le houblon, les IPA et ce genre de bières à caractère. La Stout aussi, mais pas trop les lagers ou les fruitées.

Et mis à part le bar et la musique, vous faites quoi de votre temps libre ?

Pas grand chose. Pour être honnête, ces deux activités occupent mon temps, elles en demandent beaucoup. Mais aussi bien au bar qu’à la guitare, je m’amuse, du coup je profite de la vie !

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MATT GREEN – NEXT CHAPTER

Posted on 09/12/2015 by atadmin

How are you finding your new role as GM of Discount Suit Company?

Yeah absolutely loving it! Having worked here as a bartender for a while, the transition into management was really smooth and painless, working with such great company has really inspired me to take DSC to the next level. We have a great team down here with both Tommy and Connor really running the show from the bar, and some amazing guests that make it all worthwhile, so yeah, this is home for a while to come!

Did Dorian leave you any words of wisdom?

Keep Andy on a tight leash!

Ha, in all seriousness Dorian is a very wise man and over the year has imparted many useful bits of sage, but the one that sticks – his favourite phrase, “don’t panic”!

What is your favourite drink off the new menu?

That’s a tough one. The menu was designed so that all the drinks were different thus there’s something for everybody. I’d have to say right now though; a “Koffie?” goes down excellently. It’s kind of like a big boys espresso martini made with Bols Genever (a Dutch juniper spirit), Galliano Ristretto, amaretto, a drop of Fernet Branca (bitter Italian aperitif) and cold brew coffee. Strong, bittersweet and the perfect pick-me-up!

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What else are you into besides cocktails?

I’m very into sleep. I’m pretty good at sleeping, if it was a sport, I’d probably have some bronze medals knocking around. I’m a pretty avid gamer as well, and usually fire up the Playstation for a couple of hours after work before I get into my bed. I find it very therapeutic and have been a bit of a gamer kid since I was, well, a kid. If I’m not gaming after work it’s usually because I’m engrossed in a TV show, at the minute True Detective is working for me.

But I’m not just a sofa sportsman!

If I can get a couple of days off together, I absolutely love to go camping. Just thinking about sleeping out under the stars, cooking over an open fire and taking a morning dip in a river is enough to mentally take me out of the hustle and bustle of London for a couple of minutes! I also love board sports, I haven’t skated or surfed in a few years but I went snowboarding in February, and it rocked! And speaking of rock, I fucking love it! Anything with loud guitars and drums and I’m all over it.

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How annoying on a scale of 1 to 10 is Andy Kerr?

It’s hard to quantify with human numbers, or even words how annoying Andy can be. He has his own way of annoyingness, unlike any other I’ve ever laid witness to. It’s that kind of annoying that buries under your skin and starts playing your nerves like a violin with a rusty nail as a bow, but worse. This normally ends with a crescendo of beautifully orchestrated, yet painfully annoying menace, and some broken glasses.

He’s not going to see this right? Oh he is?? OK scrub that, Andy is a massive dude and being part of his company is a great privilege. What may seem as annoying to others, is nothing but attention to detail and drive to be the best, coolest bar in London, which we all understand down here in the bar. The accent just sort of fades from your mind after a while, so yeah, not annoying at all!

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4th Menu Edition – DSC

Posted on 08/12/2015 by atadmin

The 4^th Discount Suit Company menu was the first under general manager Matt Green, who curated the drinks menu in unison with Umbrella Project confrere Jake Rogers and was overseen by director, Andy Kerr.

The drinks at DSC have always been classically inspired with simple variations.

With this in mind the aim was to achieve a timeless feel with easy to replicate cocktails that are simple in flavours, but complex in taste.

The menu was designed to be easy to navigate, but also show that there is much more than DSC’s signature serves, resulting in 9 drinks being added to the 4^th menu. This was intended to keep guests on a journey of drinks, where if they liked the signature serve, they could indulge in the classic cocktail that is similar and inspired the creation.

DSC has developed a strong collective of regulars since it’s doors first opened and we wanted to remind them that their favourites from the previous menus were still available, holding their place on the back of the new menu.

The intention was to create a simple and condensed menu that had a large variety of offerings.

For those less familiar with the classic style of drinks served at DSC, basic images of the cocktails were provided to give an insight for those wanting to try something new.

Here are some brief descriptions of his drink choices in his words:

Kneecapper

Short, fresh and punchy. Like an Irish Bee’s Knee’s, but with a dash of absinthe and Poitín, which gives in a nice earthy and round flavour. This was designed by DSC bartender by Connor.

Black Rose

Based on the jack rose, this drink came from a concept from Halloween, and a tip of the hat to the dark Victorian era. Cassis and nettle tea are used to replace the grenadine, and the drink is dyed black with food colouring with a contrasting violet flower floating on top.

Hibi Hibi Shake

Every menu needs something long and fruity, and this is our answer. We wanted to challenge the plain long, fruity vodka cocktail drinkers to open up to trying something new, so we used Pisco as a punchy clear spirit. We also wanted to go seasonal with flavours and visuals, and have something with a bit of fun to it.

Old Bell

Inspired by the Old Pal cocktail, and being half on bell lane, this drink was born out of homage to the local area. A stronger straight up style drink designed for whiskey aficionados.

Carrier Pigeon

This drink was taken as a blend between the airmail and aviation. Originally designed with lavender liqueur to tie in the floral notes, it was too tricky to get hold of reliably, and so fresh lavender was used, which I think has worked much better. Also keeping with the aeronautical theme and going back to the classic era, we named it Carrier Pigeon as it seemed to tie in nicely.

Tailor Two Cities

This drink brings together DSC’s tailor shop background and the classic novel “A Tale of Two Cities”. The gin and vermouth elements in this drink were inspired by the books literary links to London and Paris thusly incorporating a Dickensian old tom gin and a bourgeoisie strawberry vermouth. These flavours are then carefully weaved together with the introduction of a lightly acidic cranberry shrubb and garnished with a snippet of the original tome, providing that classic ‘old book’ scent.

Conference Call

Inspired by Death & Co’s conference cocktail, we wanted to create an old fashioned that the city boys out drinking would be happy with. We brought together whiskeys from the three main stock markets (UK, America and Japan) to make our house blend. This drink has interesting elements, combining sweetness, nut smoke and a salinity on the finish. The garnish provides a big olfactory hit and a little theatre, achieved by attaching a flaming matchbook.

Love Potion #9

The first of our 2 sharers, this one is for the daters. DSC has a great atmosphere for bringing a date (especially early week) and we wanted to give the couples something to get the ball rolling. Simple in construction but with many flavour layers, it cuts right to the chase. The name is a homage to the classic Northern soul song by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, The song describes a man seeking love, who is recommended “love potion number 9” after having his palm read by a gypsy. The potion is an aphrodisiac that causes him to fall in love with everything in sight, kissing whatever is in front of him. This ends when he kisses a policeman who breaks his bottle of love potion. The drink itself is a hearty concoction of quiquiriqui mescal, bold London cherry and kamm & sons ginseng aperitif. Sure to provide any couple with a little Dutch courage.

Port In A Storm

The second sharer, for a larger group is a seasonal take on a traditional spiced rum punch. We wanted to create our own spiced rum and put it to use in a group drink, which is a very Caribbean way of partying. Playing the name on the dark and stormy, this drink uses a homemade ginger cordial to give the added spice without being overwhelming.

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The Sun Tavern – Poitín Tastings

Posted on 10/10/2015 by atadmin

The Sun Tavern’s Poitín tasting classes unleash the history and extensive tastes of Ireland’s post-illicit spirit.

Bartenders discuss the background of this premium liquid that ranges between 40-90%, before you indulge in tasting a range of the spirit neat and mixed, learning what compliments the dynamic flavours of Poitín.

Poitín returned to legality in 1997, refining standards and quality, as well as making this much-loved spirit more accessible. Our Poitín tasting sessions aim to show you the numerous benefits this potent liquid has to offer, historically and taste wise. There are 4 different kinds of Poitín presented at the tasting, which are also for sale in full bottle form from the bar, or our online bottle shop.

The Poitín tasting classes are available as gifts for individuals and small groups, however private reservations are also available for larger group bookings. Whatever the party size, our Poitín tasting sessions at The Sun Tavern highlight the rebelliousness of the souls who made the spirit what it is.

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PARLIAMENT Poitín & WHISKEY LIST

Posted on 12/07/2015 by atadmin

The Sun Tavern hosts the largest range of Irish Whiskey & Poitín legally available through our spirit tasting sessions, to buy from our bottle shop or simply neat or mixed into a classic cocktail.

We aim to show the strengths and dynamic flavours of an array of Irish whiskey and Poitín at The Sun Tavern.

Our tasting sessions immerse you in the once illicit Poitín that ranges between 40-90%, highlighting taste as well as the background of the rebellious souls who kept it in production illegally.

If you simply want to try these drinks, The Sun Tavern’s Irish Whiskey and Poitín are both sold neat or mixed into cocktails, exposing which flavours compliment these premium spirits.

Full bottles of both Irish Whiskey and Poitín are available online, from our bottle shop or at the bar at The Sun Tavern. The tasting sessions and bottles of both Gaelic spirits make a great, lesser-given gift for purveyors of fine liquids.

Knockeen Hills Gold – Poitín – £31

Teeling Whiskey Co. – Poitín – £28

To find out more about our drinks menus, special events or whatever we’ve been on with, sign up to The Sun Tavern mailing list at the bottom of the website.

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QUICK 5: CONNOR BLOOMFIELD

Posted on 16/06/2015 by atadmin

Where are you from?

I’m from a town in N. Ireland called Fivemiletown (no joke).

How long have you been in London?

About 5 weeks

What do you find most enjoyable about working for DSC?

Thinking on my feet when you have to make bespoke cocktails and pulling some dodgy dance moves behind the bar.

What’s your favourite DSC cocktail?

Mine is the Dane-ted love, because it’s got a sharp beginning then a sweet fresh taste at the end.

What has been your most embarrassing moment being a bartender?

Being asked to dry ice on my trial shift at DSC and believing it. That’s haunted me ever since, but I didn’t dry it luckily because they burst out laughing before.

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THE SUN TAVERN’S SUMMER MENU

Posted on 15/06/2015 by atadmin

The Sun Tavern decided to release its 2^nd edition of their menu that was inspired by the British summer and aimed to utilise British ingredients.

We wanted to celebrate the emergence of great products sourced locally from friends in the industry to accompany the: Mezcal, Tequila, Gin, Rum, Irish Whiskey and Poitín commonly found in our mixed drinks and cocktails. We felt that the combination of British syrups and aperitifs with our spirits produced a unique and very seasonal drinks menu.

To find out more about our drinks menus, special events or whatever we’ve been on with, sign up to The Sun Tavern mailing list at the bottom of the website.

The Wake

The aptly named The Wake, is homage to one of The Sun tavern’s favourite classic cocktails… the Corpse reviver #2. This drink (like its inspiration) packs a wallop, featuring a 90% quadruple distilled Poitín. We’ve carefully paired this with Guyanese white rum and Suze gentian spirit. Because of its punchy Irish nature we limit this drink to a max of two per person. This drink is a real firecracker and sure to get any party going.

Show Me La Mauny

Potent, grassy rhum agricole hailing from the sunny island of Martinique, meets tropical fruit in this exotic number. Inspired by the banana daiquiri, we took this a couple steps further. The original plan was a beer-nana-daiquiri but we couldn’t help ourselves and after adding a few other flavours to our shakers we ended up with this lively libation.

Fleur De Lis

Cognac has a rich and nutty character. To extenuate this, we combine it our home made pecan syrup and then cut through the sweetness with lime juice and the classic Italian amaro cynar. These four ingredients harmonise perfectly to bring all of the necessary elements of a truly great cocktail; strong, sour, sweet and bitter.

Red Lombriz

Translating as red worm in Spanish, this drink brings together the silky charcoal of mezcal and the sweet zing of raspberries. Garnished with grated dark chocolate this is a great after dinner desert cocktail.

Mother Bucker

Ever heard of the Scottish party/havoc inducing favourite Buckfast Tonic wine? Well you should have. Affectionately known as ‘bucky’ by its fans this little number will definitely put some wind in your sails. The drink is kind of like turbo sangria; fruity and refreshing but with a sting in its tail.

Rose Hipster

If this drink was a person he’d have a powerful top knot, beard combo and would probably be hanging out in… well, a cocktail bar. We love how the gin and rose liqueur fits with the fizz of the Prosecco in this concoction. Then the addition of our in house rhubarb cordial brings a luscious tartness to the party. This drink is then elegantly garnished with sweet smelling dried rose buds and soothing mint.

‘dam Buster

This one’s for the adventurous types and took its inspiration from spirits and flavours of central Europe’s liquid culture. Combining gin and cherry liqueur from Holland, German vermouth and Danish kummel. Served with a chocolate covered pretzel for the authentic continental taste.

One For The Road

This drink follows on from one of The Umbrella Project’s most iconic drinks, the Two Irish Men and just as its predecessor it’s named after The Sun Tavern’s general manager Ciaran, who’s favourite line when he’s supposed to be going home is always “One For the Road”. Naturally this usually turns into several for the road. Think of this drink as a slightly twisted Irish Manhattan.

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We had a little chat with Connor and Jamie who were the two main curators of this menu, here is what the had to say…

Drink Up London’s, London Cocktail Week 2017 DSC saw a belter of a drink down at the bar.

To commemorate National Tequila Day here at DSC, we’ve four classically inspired concoctions, from four staples of Tequila distillation.

HACIENDA – TEQUILA HERRADURA

TOMMY’S MARGARITA – TEQUILA FORTALEZA

BEYOND THE ROCKS – TEQUILA TAPATIO

CADAVRE EXQUIS – TEQUILA ARETTE

In honour of World Gin Day on the 10th of June, we thought we’d do something a little different for this month’s Guest Cocktail at Discount Suit Company.

AUSTRALIA – FOUR PILLARS GIN

JAPAN – KI NO BI GIN, THE KYOTO DISTILLERY

SCOTLAND – ISLE OF HARRIS GIN

USA – ST. GEORGE VODKA

Cinco de Mayo came on a Friday this year, so we had ourselves a Mexican-infused fiesta down at DSC!

Thursday 9th March saw the launch party for Umbrella Brewing and their fiery, cloudy alcoholic ginger beer.

SCOTCH EGGS

SOCTCH WHISKY

SCOTCH COCKTAILS

START OF A NEW ERA.

THE END OF 4AM UBERS.

John spins at both Discount Suit Company and The Sun Tavern most weekends, inbetween recording podcasts for Umbrella Radio.

Here are Eli’s top five plays at Discount Suit Company

On probably the nicest Monday of the year, The Umbrella Project along with Umbrella Brewing took a few of the lads from Discount Suit Company and The Sun Tavern on a voyage with Vestal Vodka.

DJ Anne Frankenstien’s Top 5 bangers she likes to bust out at Discount Suit Company.

Enjoy the soul.

Anne is one of DSC’s regular DJ’s.

You can catch her most weeks playing her Soul & Funk gems. Strictly vinyl!

Eli is our serial crate-digger and specialist in all styles.

Catch him DJing at DSC on Fridays.

Darryl McNally was recently appointed as Master Distiller of Quintessential Brands’ The Dubliner Irish Whiskey and The Dublin Liberties.

We managed to sit down for a quick 5 minutes with him in The Sun Tavern…

Paul Day is a regular DJ at both The Sun Tavern & Discount Suit Co. – as versatile as he is natty.

Chances are he’ll be spinning platters at one or the other come the weekend…

In honour of World Gin Day on the 10^th of June, we thought we’d do something a little different for this month’s Guest Cocktail at Discount Suit Company.

Thursday 9^th March saw the launch party for Umbrella Brewing and their fiery, cloudy alcoholic ginger beer.