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Bristol
Bibas Lounge Bar & Restaurant

Somebody get me to a piano and show me the ropes. Or perhaps I should don an apron and learn how to cook properly? Either way, eating and drinking at Bristol’s newest hotspot is an affecting experience. Introducing exactly what was missing from Bristol’s eclectic and funky nightlife scene, Bibas Lounge Bar & Restaurant offers a touch of class with a menu that sings to the palate.

Music and food are in inarguably two of life’s greatest pleasures, something which has not escaped the notice of owner Costa Kkolos; enter the concept for Bibas Lounge Bar & Restaurant. With live jazz every night of the week, whether it be courtesy of the house grand piano or a visiting double bass, this venue has got everything right on the money.

The look was inspired by the 1960s London boutique Biba, and showcases the style and decadence of art deco, nouveau and Victoriana design. The resulting interior is a feast for the eyes. Attention to detail is paramount; fanned mirrors, a crystal chandelier, bejewelled lighting, beautiful parquet flooring and sumptuous seating create Hollywood golden era glam with no compromises. An imposing flat screen shows classic films from the 30s 40s and 50s while you eat, with greats like Audrey Hepburn, Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire making regular appearances. The overall effect is impressive.

I could go on indefinitely about the look of this place, but that would do the food a great injustice. There is no sense of urgency, your table is yours and yours alone for the whole evening with the focus on providing a full night of leisurely dining, drinking and simple relaxation, taking in the smooth sounds of the non-intrusive music. We sipped Chablis Ropiteau and pondered the menu of modern European cuisine with the occasional exotic twist. Our table of five managed to explore much of the menu, and whilst my duck and mango salad featuring tender slices of breast meat and juicy pieces of fruit came up trumps, the Thai style wanton stack also found its way onto my wondering fork – delicious. My fish ‘en paupiette’ saw delicate flakes of hake beautifully seasoned, wrapped in paper and served with a medley of individually presented seasonal vegetables – make a beeline for the sweet red cabbage. The roast rack of Somerset lamb, another of my companions’ choices, was just as good and demonstrated a chef obviously in fine form.

Starters come in the extremely reasonable bracket of £4 to £6.50, and mains from £8.50 to £18 including a selection of fresh vegetables or a dressed mixed leaf salad, as well as your choice of potatoes. Desserts are a must, and with maple and pecan puff, Baileys and Malteser cheesecake and my chosen ‘Bibas Chocolate Bourbon Cream’, you can be forgiven for forgetting the diet, throwing caution to the wind and making the most of this sinful selection.

If you are after a less grand but no less delicious meal, sample the delights of the lighter bites menu – available in the main restaurant every day until 7pm and in the bar thereafter – featuring penne pasta, salads, a mezze selection, soup of the day and much more besides.

Unlike the original Biba store, I would say that, with such style and fabulous food, Bristol’s Bibas will be around indefinitely.

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