NEW BAR: Toast of the Town

With king of cool Idris Elba at the helm, there’s no doubt that the newest bar on the Kings Cross scene will be one to watch. The world-renowned actor, producer and DJ teamed up with founder of Connaught Wine Cellars, David Farber to launch the Porte Noire Champagne and rosé brand back in 2018, and now the pair have opened their first bar, tasting rooms and shop of the same name. Located at the foot of the stunning Gasholders, opposite Regent’s Canal Towpath at Coal Drops Yard, the new bar and shop is a celebration of the brand, as well as being home to an extensive selection of exceptional international wines in around 800 bins. Curated by David, this ranges from some of the best and rarest bottles to a more accessible selection of wines on tap to suit all tastes. Most bottles are available to purchase in the shop that sits by the entrance to the bar. 

A food menu is split into tasters, bar snacks, starters, mains and desserts, encompassing everything from artisanal cheese and charcuterie to brasserie-style dishes like the delicious slow cooked beef cheek, pommes purée and leek persillade.

David tells us: “We’re really excited to be bringing a slice of continental hospitality to London this autumn… we have seen some incredible reviews of Porte Noir and we’re looking forward to creating a space to match.’’ They’re not alone in that. 

Gasholder 10, Unit A, 1 Lewis Cubitt Square, N1C (020 7930 6211; portenoire.co.uk)