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A stylish two-level hideaway with top wines, creative cocktails and city-famous toasties, Proof is always fun, upbeat and welcoming, catering to imbibers of every stripe.
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Proof’s extensive drinks list has something for every palate. Grab a glass of skinsy or oxidative white if skin-contact wine is your speed, an Ochota Barrels rosé or splash out on a bottle of Laherte-Frères “Brut Nature” Blanc de Blancs Champagne. (Tip: the Hills Collide “Bright White” riesling-grüner blend is the work of co-owner and barman Shane Ettridge, who also co-runs the label with winemaker Mitchell Fitzpatrick.)
Also on offer: bottled beers from new-wave producers such as Mismatch and Little Bang along with Southwark Old Stout, local craft gins, top-shelf whiskies and innovative cocktails (try the Field of Dreams, a mix of vodka, amaro, strawberry and sesame, or the Cannsea Clearly that combines tequila, Braulio amaro, yoghurt and chilli).
The bar also hosts the odd wine-tasting session (hello, Chardy Parties, the popular chardonnay sessions), new-season wine releases, and toastie takeovers, where guest chefs and winemakers drop in to put their spin on the venue’s famous snacks.
Proof’s crunchy, golden toasties just might be the best in town – they’re reason enough alone to come here. The “kitchen” – aka a sandwich press behind the bar – pumps out gooey, cheesy creations with fillings such as mushroom, truffle and Gruyère cheese, brisket and mac ’n’ cheese, and spicy lamb with chickpeas and yoghurt. The tight snack menu also includes the likes of cacciatore salami with pickles, tinned sardines and anchovies with bread, and cheeseboards.
If you’re after something heartier, you can order a meal from the neighbours – namely, a burger and onion rings from Press Food & Wine or a Margherita or funghi pizza from Melt.
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