As we step foot into this charming watering hole, with retro, exposed brick walls and plush plaid seats, we have our expectations set. With a selection of classic and more creative signature cocktails, there’s a lot to be tried and tested.
The secret behind Origin’s fabulous creations is the same as Quinary: mixology. Using the same impressive gadgetry and techniques, Origin prepares its infused gins in-house before blending them into its drinks. This ability to capture the essence of almost anything (from cucumber to chocolate) makes mixology a thing of limitless invention and many of head mixologist Antonio Lai’s creations draw inspiration from everyday food. Among the more fascinating combinations is a remix of Quinary’s most popular drink, the Classic Earl Grey Martini, with lemon juice, egg white, Cointreau and slow-cooked Earl Grey gin so potent, it’s almost a stew. An absolutely delicious stew, may we add.
Though the décor could benefit from darker flooring to ramp up the mystery and intrigue, most interior elements, including metal grills and a quirky bathtub sink in the toilets, work well, giving the bar an exclusive-yet-homely atmosphere – a perfect environment for its cosmopolitan clientele. By Li Meng de Bakker