Located in the heart of Bermondsey, Nine Lives – a beloved subterranean cocktail haven complete with a charming cobblestone terrace – has reached a significant milestone, celebrating seven years of mixing up some of the capital’s finest cocktails. The brainchild of Allan Gage and Emma Hutchison, this hidden gem is marking the occasion with some exciting new changes.

Nine Live has introduced a permanent kitchen, helmed by Head Chef Ramon ‘El Tigre’ Ramos. Ramos, who has earned a reputation for some of the best tacos in London, has replaced the much-loved Tigre Tacos food truck with a fresh, authentic menu that dives deeper into his Mexican roots. Drawing inspiration from his hometown of Guadalajara, Mexico, the new dishes have been designed to pair seamlessly with Nine Lives’ innovative cocktails.

As for the cocktails, expect a new, knock-your-socks-off menu. William Campbell-Rowntree, known for his tenure at the prestigious Artesian Guards bar at Raffles London, is behind the bar’s new cocktail menu.

In the ‘Crudo’ category, the Paloma Ceviche – a delicate combination of Sea Bream, Pink Grapefruit, Agave Leche De Tigre, and Plantain Chips – showcases the fresh, bold flavours that Ramos is known for. Meanwhile, the Aguachile, featuring Lime Cured Prawns and Salsa Verde atop Tostaditas, finds a perfect partner in the Sweet Re-Leaf, a concoction of Ocho Blanco, Los Siete Misterious Doba-Yej Mezcal, Fino Sherry, and Aloe Vera.

Of course, no visit would be complete without sampling the tacos. The El Gobernador, with its Caramelised Cheese Mix, Grilled Prawns, Salsa Roja, and Pico De Gallo, and the Beef Barbacoa, a rich blend of Slow Cooked Beef Brisket, Onions, Coriander, and Beef Consommé, are sure to become fast favourites. Pair the latter with Betty’s Manhattan—a sophisticated mix of Bulleit Rye, Sipello Aperitif, Lillet Rosé, and Raspberry—for an experience that’s nothing short of sublime.

8 Holyrood St, London SE1 2EL