BarChick's cocktail of the week: South Side of Oxford Street at Old Tom and English

The drink: South Side of Oxford Street

What’s in it? Spring Gin Gentlemen’s Cut, sugar and freshly squeezed lemon shaken with Manzanilla Dry Sherry and garnished with a flower.

Why should we try it? If you’re going to take on a classic as your signature cocktail then you have to do it properly, and it doesn’t get more classic than a Gin Sour. Luckily the guys here have nailed it. Spring Gin Gentlemen’s Cut, with its notes of strong citrus, works perfectly as the base of this Sour, while the botanicals combine with the fresh lemon for a tart kick. Sugar steps in to mellow out the sharpness while the light and dry Mazanilla Sherry adds depth to the flavour without being overpowering. Add some petals and it’ll look so pretty you might not want to drink it.

Where do we get it? If you’re looking for a hot date spot in Soho, get underground and into this swanky basement bar, but make sure you book ahead as it’s reservations only. Taking inspiration from the relaxed extravagance of the Sixties, Old Tom and English has a drawing room vibe, and with rich red carpets, hidden velvet booths, copper accents and metallic barware it certainly looks the part. The drinks are also keeping it retro, with twists on Flips and decanters of barrel-aged Negronis. Behave and they might just keep topping you up. Everyone’s been talking about the food, so you’d be silly not to order some sharing plates: British classics have been given a makeover so expect pig cheeks, smoked guinea fowl and popcorn made from cockles.

Who do we ask for? Max Tamagna has a penchant for all things homemade and can be found behind the bar creating syrups, shrubs and tonics — all the things that make the drinks here so good. Hats off to Max.

How much is it? £9.50

Find it: 187 Wardour Street, W1F 8ZB, oldtomandenglish.com