Trinity Presents The Last Word pop-up

Running until 21^st December, The Last Word is a pop-up which transforms a former nightclub opposite the industrial Tobacco Dock in the East End of London into a ritzy, speakeasy bar showcasing a line-up of live heritage bands, a unique drinks menu compiled by mixologist Deano Moncrieffe and a dining experience provided by The Disappearing Dining Club.

As you enter the industrial-looking building through a discreet entrance on Pennington Street, you’re immediately transported to the past, a hazy bar with staff dressed for the occasion in their finest 1920s attire. Greeted with a signature Trinity Prosecco cocktail (a refreshing blend of Don Julio 1942 tequila, brown sugar, orange bitters and Prosecco), friendly staff escort you to banquet-style dining tables and quickly talk through the menu. Celebrating a unique fusion of mixology, music and dining, guests are not only treated to an adventurous 12 plate sharing menu, but two complimentary cocktails between courses – making The Last Word a boozy and sociable affair.

With food served in sharing plates, it’s easy to mingle and chat with fellow guests over delicious starters such as the Italian classic of Salami, Mortadella & Bresaola. By far the best starter, however, is the Black Bean and Smoked Sweetcorn Ceviche, which effortlessly combines deep, smoky flavours with a range of exciting textures, all with very humble ingredients.

Expertly cooked seasonal dishes such as Venison Stew with Allspice & Juniper and Swede Mash are supplemented by lighter salads – an excellent Quinoa Pomegranate & Feta Salad lends a touch of sophistication to the meal, while a warm Aubergine, Chick Pea & Couscous side makes the perfect accompaniment to the venison. The highlight of the courses is without a doubt the Fig Stuffed Slow Roast Portk Neck with Apple Sauce, complemented faultlessly by Pickled Kale & Swede Mash. Modestly presented on a rustic wooden board, this Sunday lunch favourite is roasted slowly to achieve melt-in-the-mouth tenderness with hints of sweet fig and honey, balanced harmoniously with the homemade apple sauce.

A Whisky Flower cocktail (a clever twist on the classic sour, with the addition of elderflower) follows the gut-busting mains, giving diners a chance to relax, talk, or join in the small crowd amassing on the makeshift dancefloor in front of the band. The desserts follow shortly afterwards, including a rich Chocolate Brownie (rich and soft, with a flawlessly gooey middle) and an equally decadent Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Compote. Finally, an invigorating The Last Word Jelly sums up a fantastic ending to a generous and well-coordinated meal. A strong digestif of Guatemalan produced Ron Zacapa Rum is also offered to settle stomachs before the rest of the evening festivities begin (the venue stays open until 3am with DJs orchestrating a post-meal party).

Whilst there is a slight absence of theme, the Disappearing Dining Club add to the glamour of the pop-up by working their magic on an expertly executed menu. With music and drinks from a bygone era, The Last Word is a fantastic and affordable event to enjoy with old friends – and equally good for meeting new ones.

Xi Weng

Food: 16/20
Drinks: 15/20
Service: 18/20
The Last Word: 49/60

To book a table at Trinity Presents The Last Word, 110 Pennington Street London E1, visit here.