July
Another day another party. We popped along recently to the launch of The Basement, the latest venue from those clever folk at the Orange Tree group.
Down in the Basement of an old Victorian hosiery factory, they’ve worked their magic again, restoring the industrial brick and cast iron structures to their former glory and adding their trademark retro touches- 1940s oak panelling, vintage light fittings, antiqued mirrors, 60s neons and luxe velvets to dramatic effect. You know we have a keen eye and the attention to detail is spot on.
We’ve been told we can expect an equally eclectic musical feast; live music from the best up and coming bands every Thursday, an alternative collective of DJs every Friday, a bit of soul shaking on Saturday and more niche nights planned in the coming months. We made a bee-line to the bar (natch) to check out the much anticipated cocktail menu and it didn’t disappoint. Lots of classics are given a modern twist and mixed to perfection. None of your cheap stuff either, it’s the best of the best brands in residence here. (Decent beers too.)
We like the style and we like the top notch drinks, but what’s great is, like the rest of the bars under their umbrella, it’s not a pretentious place. The vibe is relaxed, the staff genuinely friendly (and damn quick; always a winner with us) It’s great to have another late night option in town (they’re open from 8pm-6am) and the venue is also available for private hire.
The Basement 1 Wellington Street Leicester.
All images courtesy of Steve Smith.
