Food and Drink

Ivan's Retreat

Above: Ivan's Retreat

It seems barely a month passes at the moment without a new bar opening in Brixton. This month it’s the turn of Ivan’s Retreat, a retro-chic bar/pub (I really can’t decide which) that has taken over from The Goose on the high street. The most surprising thing about Ivan’s, is its size. High ceilings and great depth give the bar a cavernous feel, which the owners have tried to counter by boxing off certain areas with seating and banisters to give a few snug alcoves. The décor is that combination of chic bar and cosy pub which is becoming all the rage: wood panelling, feature lighting, eclectic retro furniture and wood floors. The food and drinks are equally welcome and familiar, with chilli con carni, calamari rings and nachos all present on the menu, and cosmopolitans, mohitos and raspberry collins’ behind the bar. The Goose will certainly not be missed and Ivan’s Retreat is another step forward for Brixton.

Try: Reading Razputin