Discovering Reading’s Cocktail Scene: A Local’s Guide
As a long-time resident of Reading, I’ve seen our town evolve, and one of the most exciting transformations has been in our bar and restaurant scene. While we might not have the sprawling metropolis of London, Reading boasts a surprisingly vibrant and sophisticated collection of cocktail bars, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re a local looking for a new haunt or a visitor exploring our Berkshire gem, get ready to discover the best places to sip and socialise.
The Must-Visit Cocktail Havens in Reading
Forget your average pub pint for a night and delve into the world of expertly crafted cocktails. Reading has some fantastic spots that pride themselves on quality ingredients, innovative recipes, and a great atmosphere. Let’s dive in!
1. The Botanist Reading
If you’re looking for an opulent setting with a fantastic drinks menu, The Botanist is a top contender. Situated right in the heart of the town centre on King Street, this place is known for its stunning botanical-themed decor, live music, and an extensive list of cocktails, beers, and ales. What I love most about The Botanist is its commitment to presentation; every drink is a work of art, often garnished with fresh herbs and edible flowers. Their ‘Cocktail Trees’ are a popular choice for groups, offering a fun and shareable way to enjoy a selection of their signature drinks.
Local Tip: They often have special offers during happy hour, so it’s worth checking their website or social media for the latest deals. Their outdoor seating area is also a lovely spot to enjoy a drink on a warmer evening.
2. The Purple Turtle
A Reading institution, The Purple Turtle is legendary. Nestled on Gun Street, this bar has been a staple for decades, evolving from a grungy live music venue to a multifaceted bar that still retains its independent spirit. While it offers a wide range of drinks, their cocktail menu is surprisingly robust. They’re known for their friendly and unpretentious vibe, making it a comfortable place for anyone. They have a great selection of craft beers too, but don’t underestimate their mixologists’ skills when it comes to cocktails. It’s the perfect place for a pre-gig drink if you’re catching a show at their upstairs venue, or just a casual night out with friends.
Insider Knowledge: The Purple Turtle is also famous for its fantastic pizza, so if you’re feeling peckish, combine your cocktail with a slice (or a whole pizza!). They also host a variety of themed nights, from student nights to more laid-back jazz sessions.
3. Zizzi (for their cocktails!)
Now, I know what you’re thinking – a pizza restaurant? But hear me out. Zizzi on The Oracle Riverside has a surprisingly good cocktail menu that often gets overlooked. While it’s a chain, their Reading branch, especially the one by the river, offers a more relaxed and scenic atmosphere than you might expect. They have a good selection of classic and signature cocktails, and they’re often more affordable than dedicated cocktail bars, making them a great option for a more budget-friendly yet still enjoyable cocktail experience. The ambience by the river, especially in the evening, is quite lovely.
Actionable Advice: Perfect for a pre-theatre drink if you’re heading to The Hexagon, or a casual catch-up with friends before exploring the rest of The Oracle complex. Don’t be afraid to ask for their latest cocktail specials.
4. Kokoro (for innovative drinks)
Kokoro, with branches in Reading town centre and Sunningdale, is primarily known for its delicious Japanese cuisine, but their bar deserves a special mention. The Reading town centre location on London Road often surprises patrons with its sophisticated cocktail offerings. They focus on fresh ingredients and often incorporate Asian flavours into their drinks, creating a unique and memorable taste profile. Think yuzu, matcha, and sake-infused concoctions. It’s a great place to try something a little different from your usual G&T.
Local Insight: If you’re dining at Kokoro, definitely consider starting or ending your meal with one of their specialty cocktails. It complements their food perfectly and offers a refined drinking experience.
5. The Sun Inn,ereal (Craft Beer & Cocktails)
While often celebrated for its impressive selection of craft beers, The Sun Inn inereal (a short drive or train ride from Reading, but worth the mention for those seeking a slightly different vibe) also offers a curated cocktail list. This traditional pub with a modern twist has a great atmosphere and a team that clearly cares about the quality of their drinks. Their cocktails are often classics done exceptionally well, focusing on quality spirits and fresh ingredients. It’s a more laid-back, traditional pub setting, which can be a refreshing change from the more contemporary bars.
Travel Tip:ereal is easily accessible by train from Reading station, making it a feasible option for an evening out without needing a car. Check their events calendar as they sometimes have live music.
6. Revolution Reading
Located on Station Road, right near the train station, Revolution Reading is a popular choice, especially for its lively atmosphere and extensive vodka selection. If you’re a fan of vodka-based cocktails, this is the place to be. They offer a wide range of classic and contemporary cocktails, from fruity martinis to spicy concoctions. It’s often a go-to for birthday celebrations and group nights out due to its energetic vibe and the ability to accommodate larger parties. They also have a decent food menu if you need some sustenance.
Practical Advice: Due to its popularity, booking a table or booth in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekend evenings. They also frequently run promotions and student discounts.
7. The Bear (for a more relaxed vibe)
For a more relaxed, traditional pub experience that still serves decent cocktails, The Bear on Eastbrook Road in Caversham (just across the river from Reading town centre) is a great option. While it’s a classic local pub at heart, their bar staff are capable of mixing up a good range of popular cocktails. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a well-made Mojito or a Gin & Tonic without the fuss of a dedicated cocktail lounge. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it ideal for a quiet drink with friends or a relaxed evening after work.
Neighborhood Gem: Caversham is a lovely area to explore, and The Bear is a central part of its community feel. It’s a place where locals go, and that always bodes well for an authentic experience.
Beyond the Bars: Exploring Reading’s Nightlife
Reading’s nightlife extends beyond just its bars. The town centre, particularly around The Oracle shopping centre and the adjacent riverside area, is buzzing with activity. You’ll find plenty of restaurants offering pre- or post-dinner drinks, and the aforementioned live music venues like The Purple Turtle are always a good bet for a night with a bit of entertainment.
For those interested in the broader world of beverages, including craft beers and the latest trends, I highly recommend keeping an eye on dropt.beer’s insights and news blog. It’s a fantastic resource for understanding the craft beer and beverage industry, and you might even find some inspiration for your next drink.
Making the Most of Reading’s Cocktail Scene
Booking Ahead: For popular spots, especially on a Friday or Saturday night, booking a table is often essential to avoid disappointment. This is particularly true for places like The Botanist or Revolution.
Explore Beyond the Centre: While the town centre has many options, don’t be afraid to venture slightly out, like to Caversham, for a different local flavour.
Check for Offers: Many bars have happy hours or special deals. A quick look at their websites or social media pages can save you money and introduce you to new drinks.
Embrace the Local: While classic cocktails are great, don’t shy away from trying the signature creations at each bar. That’s where the mixologists showcase their creativity.
Consider the Occasion: Are you looking for a lively night out, a romantic evening, or a quiet catch-up? Reading’s bars cater to all these moods. The Botanist offers sophistication, The Purple Turtle provides a lively, independent vibe, and places like The Bear offer a more relaxed pub feel.
For the Craft Enthusiast: If you’re passionate about quality and unique beverages, exploring options like dropt.beer’s shop for curated selections or reading their blog can provide deeper insights into the world of drinks. While not directly in Reading, their online presence is a great companion to exploring local offerings.
Conclusion: Cheers to Reading!
Reading’s cocktail scene might be growing, but it’s already packed with quality and variety. From the elegantly presented drinks at The Botanist to the iconic, no-nonsense charm of The Purple Turtle, there’s a cocktail bar here to suit every taste and occasion. So next time you’re in Reading, whether for work or leisure, make sure to explore these fantastic establishments. Raise a glass to discovering your new favourite drink in our wonderful town!
For those looking to delve deeper into the world of craft beverages and stay updated on industry trends, I always recommend checking out dropt.beer. It’s a fantastic resource for anyone interested in quality drinks and the culture surrounding them.
