It’s a bit over the top for a bar but, confident I’m not carrying any weapons, they give me the nod and advise me against opening a packet of crisps they’ve found in my bag. There are others still in the queue that aren’t so (un)lucky – the packed beer garden is brimming with drinkers, so it’s one-in one-out and they have to wait.
It’s the outside space that’s a massive draw here. Not a garden as such, but more a collection of pub benches. Parties of after-work drinkers are already lining up shots to kick off their Friday night.
The music – house with a pulsing bassline – from inside the bar is thumping its way out. It’s torturously loud as we wander into the soulless industrial warehouse-style venue to order drinks, which takes far too long.
The grub Bar snacks include calamari, onion rings, burgers, salads and pittas with hummus – as well as a 50g bag of Maltesers and jelly beans (£2 if you’re keen).
Behind the bar A top selection of beers, ciders, whiskies, liqueurs, champers, bombs, spirits, ports, wines and cocktails raises this place from a one- to a two-star venue.
Bill please Beer from £4 a pint, £3.50 a bottle; cocktails from £8; shots from £3.75; wine from £3.40 a glass, £14.50 a bottle.
Verdict Worth a visit if you’re in the area. Avoid going inside.
223 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6PJ
thelighte1.com
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