Earlier this week, Notable paid a visit to the latest cocktail hot spot to set up shop in Vancouver’s Gastown district. We ventured into the realm of Clough Club and revelled in the intricate design and styling that perfectly sets the mood for this 110-year-old space.
Touted as a dark spirits-driven bar (by this we mean rye, whisky and barrel-aged bourbon), Clough Club gets its name from John Clough, a one-handed, 19th Century Gastown resident with a murky past. Historical recountings claim that Clough was a rather memorable booze-hound who moonlighted as a lamplighter and jailer in Vancouver’s earliest days.
There is an elegant blend of both edgy and old-fashioned design components worked into the space, recalling saloon-style charm with a touch of mystery. Bare walls, muted colours and dimmed lighting invite you to grab a custom cocktail (try the Apiary or Wax Poetic) and weave your way around until you find the bar in the cavern-like back room. When there, check out the custom designed, tricked-out two-way mirror made to look like a neon passageway and spot the wandering hand.
Eats are all about tapas style bites of goodness influenced by Central and South American flavours and recipes brought to life by well-known Vancouver Chef Robert Belcham. Look for lots of locally sourced, organic ingredients on their well-appointed menu.
Check out our gallery and venture down for a visit yourself at 212 Abbott.