Standing on a slightly scruffy Clerkenwell side street, the diminutive Gunmakers makes an agreeable if unassuming bolthole for a pint, cocktail and a couple of tacos. Sound like an odd combination? Let us explain. It coins itself as a cocktail pub and taquieria, which essentially comprises all the cosy familiarity and warmth of your local boozer, but with an inventive cocktail list and a host of top-notch tacos to add some Mexican-inspired flare to the mix.
On the surface, the unassuming interiors resemble a standard British pub, complete with cosy booth seating, dark blue walls, a wooden bar and old-fashioned furniture. And if you’re in the area for a pint served with a smile, then The Gunmakers can absolutely do that, with a selection of draft ales and lagers on offer. For something a little more punchy, then head over to the cocktail list where you can order a Gunmakers Margarita (El Tequileño Blanco, jasmine, agave, neroli and citrus) or Ancho Negroni (Gin, ancho pepper, Campari, sweet vermouth). Nothing on the list you like the sound of? Feel free to ask for your favourite classic and the bartender will rustle it up for you. Make sure to sample something from its extensive tequila and mezcal list, too.
Now for the food, which consist of a short but exciting menu of tacos. The Baja Fish is topped with beer-battered catch of the day, white cabbage, chipotle mayo and El Tigre’s salsa roja, while the Pulpo Tostada sees octopus ceviche served on a crispy blue tostada with chilli oil. There are vegan and vegetarian options, too, while a couple of sharing options are great for picking on while you slurp on a margarita. The Ceviche de Pescado sees the lime-cured catch of the day served with pico de gallo and with tortilla chips, for example.