Copper Blossom

Knowingly chintzy city centre basement bar with stylish drinks and a welcoming after-work atmosphere.

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For a catch-up with pals, you could do worse than Copper Blossom. It’s light and airy, with plenty of flowery cushions: perhaps avoid if you are in a particularly dark mood or find girly décor tooth grinding. But otherwise the white-painted wood and bricks are pleasant, even if the furniture is a little matchy-matchy. Of a weekend DJs play Motown, house or R&B and the fun is fuelled by an elegant cocktail menu, which features the classics and pays attention to the details – try a Mai Tai with Plantation rum, Pierre Ferrand orange curacao and orgeat. Wines are small in number but good, a bottle of prosecco is £18, and there’s the odd craft ale on draught. The food menu plays it safe but fish and chips and cheeseburger do not disappoint and a lengthy ‘bites’ list makes for appealing sharing options.

• High point: Pretty steps and outside basement area
• Low point: Lacks a little soul
• Notable dish: Blossom cheeseburger