Defectors

Take the stairs. God knows with all that collective drinking we’re doing, a little bit of exercise wouldn’t kill us. In fact, it might even do us good, particularly if there’s a destination like Defectors at the finishing line. While some still refer to this olde worlde den of couches and armchairs as “upstairs at the Scotsman”, Casa Defectors is a world away from the shared jugs and boho-charm of its underfoot sibling. Although popular bar manager James Connolly has recently upped stumps, the Englishman’s legacies of irreverence – according to the menu, his Golden Promise tastes “like an angel has p-ssed on your tongue” – and good drinking remain. Take, for instance, the likes of the Kentucky Treacle Pie, a highly gluggable concoction of Rittenhouse rye, maple syrup and apple juice. Then there’s the floral Sooky La La, essentially a gimlet with St Germain standing in for the lime cordial. Or maybe you want something neat and undiluted? All the levels of the booze pyramid are represented here, although rum – all 30-something bottles of it – is unquestionably the spirit of choice. The outside balcony offers impressive views of city and the surrounding neighbourhood while a snack menu big on drinking food (did someone say pizza?) adds to the convivial vibe. Oh, and about that staircase: don’t fret – it’s only a 20-step climb, but based on past experiences, it’s the descent that’s really tricky.