PocketSquare review: East London’s hidden rooftop cocktail escape

A sanctuary for those who appreciate expertly crafted cocktails and an atmosphere that exudes warmth and intimacy.

From the moment we arrived at the bar in Whitechapel, the experience was nothing short of exceptional.

The service was impeccable, with attentive hospitality that made us feel instantly welcome.

Creative glassware and striking visuals bring each cocktail to life, elevating the entire bar experience (Image: Holly Brencher)

The bar itself is a cosy yet elegant space, ideal for a quiet date night, a sophisticated gathering with friends, or even an intimate family outing.

At PocketSquare, cocktails are the heart and soul of the experience.

Their seasonal cocktail menu is a testament to creativity and craftsmanship, with house-made sugar syrups and unique ingredients elevating each drink to something truly special.

We indulged in a selection of signature cocktails, each one offering a distinct journey of flavour.

Taiyo, inspired by the first Western samurai, features a delicate balance of Roku gin, yuzu, and house-made plum wine (Image: Holly Brencher) Taiyo, a tribute to the first Western samurai of the 17th century, was beautifully balanced.

Roku gin, yuzu, and in-house plum wine created a bold yet delicate profile.

Served in a striking red glass with a rice paper samurai print, this was a cocktail with a story as rich as its taste.

Meiso was a serene experience in itself.

Blending peach and aloe vera sake with mikan essence, it was smooth and layered.

Served with koi carp ice cubes adorned with gold leaf, it was visually stunning.

As the cubes melted, the drink evolved, offering a delicate transformation of flavours.

A thoughtful, meditative sip.

Our personal favourites were the spicy margarita and the fermented banana colada (Image: Holly Brencher) The spicy margarita was a bold, smoky masterpiece.

Fair Trade spirits underscored the bar’s ethical sourcing.

A blend of chipotle liqueur, paprika salt rim, and two drops of Tabasco delivered the perfect balance of heat and depth.

Perhaps the star of the evening was the fermented banana colada.

Staff and customers alike praise this cocktail, and for good reason.

Using Discarded banana rum—crafted from actual banana peels rather than synthetic flavours—it was smooth, rich, and refreshingly complex.

Sustainability meets flavour with this innovative spirit, served in signature cocktails at Pocket Square (Image: Holly Brencher) The sustainability aspect added another layer of appreciation.

The drink was served in sterilised, re-capped gin mixer bottles, a creative and thoughtful touch.

Beyond the drinks, the food menu has been carefully curated to complement the bar’s elevated yet unpretentious approach.

The addition of flatbreads ensures there is more than just bar snacks without overwhelming the experience.

We sampled the Korean gochujang chicken wings, cod fritters with sriracha aioli, Cobble Lane London cured meat, and truffle pecorino fries.

Korean gochujang wings, cured meats, truffle fries, and cod fritters – a perfect pairing for a night of indulgence (Image: Holly Brencher) Each dish was indulgent, with bold flavours and thoughtful pairings that made them the perfect accompaniment to the drinks.

The attention to detail in both presentation and execution is what sets PocketSquare London apart.

Sip cocktails while taking in breathtaking cityscapes on PocketSquare’s elegant terrace (Image: Holly Brencher) From the larger, slower-melting ice cubes that preserve the integrity of the cocktails to the warm, inviting ambience, everything about this space is designed for pure enjoyment and relaxation.

PocketSquare isn’t just another cocktail bar—it’s an experience.

Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated retreat from the city, an intimate date spot, or a night of discovery through their exceptional drinks menu, this east London hideaway delivers in every way.

A true must-visit for cocktail lovers and those in search of something special.