Gigi’s Hoxton opened last week in Shoreditch’s ever-popular Hoxton Square, home to a multitude of thrumming bar options, but definitely in need of a new kid on the block to shake things up.
Making its appearance in the former premises of Zigfrid von Underbelly, Gigi’s offers up an all-day restaurant and bar, with a mix of sharing plates, fish dishes, salads and the all-important brunch options. The menus, created by head chef Antonio Mollo, draw influence from his Italian heritage, while still exhibiting a British twist.
Envisioned by Giovanna Hussain, the enterprising mind behind The Corner Shop on Shoreditch High Street, The Rocksteady in Dalston and Italian restaurant The Grapevine, one of the major selling points here is the opportunity to catch some late-night live music. The launch night saw a lively, 7-piece jazz band take to the stage, amping up the atmosphere, and the plan is to continue with the live performance line-up – DJ sets featuring up-and-coming talent included.
The industrial-look decor mixes statement pieces – including a distinctive wooden eagle – with grafitti-style murals, hand-painted by artist Kate Philipson, and a long bar topped with Wasabi stone and illuminated with neon signs.
And the bar highlight for those partial to a coffee-themed beverage? There are Espresso Martinis on tap… creamy dreaminess. There’s an extensive list of other cocktails on offer, both potent and a bit lighter, with a wine list that features Italian, French and New World favourites alongside English, organic and natural wines.
Listings: Indie, rock and house, Mon – Thurs, 12pm – 1am; Fri, 12pm – 3am; Sat, 10am – 3am; Sun, 10am – midnight. gigishoxton.com
