Doing some research before our mid-week break to Bristol, I’d highlighted the “Cosy Club”:https://cosyclub.co.uk/location/bristol/ which looked interesting in terms of building, menu and location – a few doors down from our hotel, “The Bristol Harbour Hotel and Spa”:https://www.silvertraveladvisor.com/review/accommodation/209187.
On arrival in Bristol, we hoped to have a light lunch there and were surprised to be told that they were full due to an unexpected wedding group arriving. Although we were disappointed, with hindsight, it turned out to be fortuitous as it meant we went for dinner instead.
The building is spectacular on the inside with high, ornate ceilings which give it an air of decadence and grandeur. Its website says that it is a Grade 2 listed neo-Palladian style building with marble flooring, stunning stonework and an awe-inspiring domed roof.
A young girl, resplendent in straw boater, greeted us and walked us to a table for two opposite the bar. Our waitress, Gabby, was charming and we decided on a pre-dinner drink before ordering. The place appeared to be a popular cocktail destination and we were tempted by a pitcher of English Garden, full of all things British: Hendrick’s gin; pressed apple juice; and elderflower over ice, finished with cucumber. At only £22.95, compared to a glass for £8.25, it appeared to be a good move especially with olives to nibble on.
Having eaten very well on our two previous nights in the hotel, we decided on four small plates which were said to be good for sharing or as a starter. We chose: Asian fried chicken with soy, chilli, ginger and pickled slaw; crispy duck salad with cherry hoisin, pomegranate, rainbow salad, sesame and Szechuan pepper; harissa lamb shoulder with spiced cauliflower puree, tzatziki, flatbread, pomegranate, pickled slaw and crispy chickpeas; bang bang cauliflower with tamarind, ginger and sesame greens. We asked if we could have them one by one, so we could have a leisurely dinner and once again, Gabby obliged.
The dishes were all served in a different style and were attractively presented, and all had absolutely fabulous intense flavours. With a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc are bill came to £76.60, with service not being automatically added. Towards the end of our meal, the straw hatted manager came to chat and offered complimentary glasses of prosecco.
On visiting the toilets, we saw a mezzanine level and went up to take photographs of the venue.
There are several Cosy Clubs around the country, and we would certainly like to try more of them.
The only downside is that the music is very loud, although because of the high ceilings, we could still hear ourselves speak.
