‘Janice Eggnog’ (left) and ‘Berry Christmas’ (right) cocktails at Ask For Janice
© Amy Lorna

Exposed brick, vintage furniture and neon lighting give the venue a relaxed, industrial vibe
© Amy Lorna

With the rebuilding of the overground station and lots of redevelopment in the surrounding area in recent years, Farringdon lost some of the many cool venues (eg Turnmills) I used to frequent. So I was pleased to here some character coming back to EC1 with the opening of bar-restaurant Ask For Janice last year. I had wanted to visit for some time, so with Christmas approaching, one of my friends and I popped along for some festive food and drink last week.

Ask For Janice is located across the road from Smithfield Market, so has plenty of visual stimulation for people watchers visiting during trading hours. With exposed pipework and brick walls, the venue has an industrial look with the vintage school-esque furniture and neon lighting bringing a sense of warmth. We were given a spot by the windows on high stools which was cosy and intimate, with low-lighting and a subtle beat in the background giving a decidedly evening vibe (quite different I should imagine to those who visit in the day for breakfast or lunch).

Vintage style: The ‘Snowball; – Advocaat, Sherry and lemonade

Our main objective was to try the special Christmas cocktail menu – comprising of three festive tipples. Of course, we had to try all of them. As I was slightly peckish on arrival, I first went for the most food-like of the drinks – the ‘Janice Eggnog’ – made from an egg and dusted with nutmeg which was deliciously frothy. Next was after something a bit more sophisticated, the ‘Berry Christmas’ – a measure of Janice’s own Sloe Gin, with cranberry syrup and Prosecco, topped with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary, which was refreshing with elements of sweetness, with the herbs giving the Prosecco a bit of a kick. Finally, to finish it was an old ’70s classic – which admittedly I had never tried before – the ‘Snowball’ – made of Advocaat, Sherry and Lemonade. It was sweet and light and actually my favourite drink of the three Christmas choices.

AFJ’s menu is seasonal and sourced, with the options of snacks, small plates for sharing or separate dishes. Being the season for sharing, my friend and I opted for the small plates, choosing Garlic Fries, Black Badger Bean Hummus, Buttermilk and Sweetcorn Fritters and Crown Prince Squash, Cobnuts and Norfolk Fava Bean Croquettes. They were equally tasty, although I particularly enjoyed the fritters. The freshness of the ingredients were clear and I really thought the different dishes complemented each other well.

Overall, we had a lovely evening. The staff were friendly and attentive, there was a lovely atmosphere and most important the food and drink were good. Christmas cocktails aside, there’s an extensive beer and wine menu, with many craft ales available. I’ll have to make a repeat visit to check out their breakfast menu.

• Ask For Janice, 50-52 Long Lane, Smithfield, EC1A 9EJ. Nearest station: Farringdon or Barbican. For more information, visit the Ask For Janice website.

Sharing plates are good choices for socialable evenings

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