Happiness Forgets

Happiness Forgets is the antidote to everything pretentious about cocktail culture. Tucked beneath Hoxton Square, this basement bar has been a Shoreditch institution since 2010, and it hasn't lost a step. The space is small, dark, and deliberately unglamorous, exposed brick, low ceilings, candles on the tables. There's no dress code, no reservations, no attitude. You queue if it's busy, you find a seat, and you drink very good cocktails. The menu changes seasonally but always strikes a balance between accessible and interesting. The bartenders are genuinely skilled but completely unpretentious, they'll happily make you whatever you want, even if it's not on the menu. Ask for a dealer's choice and you'll get something tailored to your tastes. What Happiness Forgets does better than almost anywhere is hospitality. It's a place where you feel immediately comfortable, whether you're a cocktail nerd or someone who normally orders beer. The prices are fair for the quality, the music is good, and the vibe is exactly right. The only real downside is the space. It's compact, and on busy nights, finding a table can be a challenge. Go early on a weeknight for the best experience.