Tonic Social

Now you all know....this girl loves a good cocktail or two! So when I was invited along to a cocktail and menu launch at Tonic Social in Bournemouth....I mean, it was a tough decision but....I forced myself.

Dragging my best mate along (kicking and screaming at the idea of cocktails and food a'plenty obviously) I headed to a bar I never knew existed, in a location I pass all the time. Ten out of ten for observation Emma! Tonic Social is nestled below the Hilton in Bournemouth, ideally placed for town-centre food and drink, with a fantastic terrace, tailor made for summer-evening Gin and Tonics.

Awaiting us was General Manager, Vince, and his team of staff, plus two visiting chefs, poised to tell us all about their upcoming events in collaboration with Tonic Social. First up was Maciek from Molecular Magic who, according to his website, "loves to provide the creative fair to wow your palette and exquisite presentation to delight your eyes". Think, Bournemouths answer to Heston Blumenthal. Macieks upcoming event at Tonic Social is on the 30th April, and I am assured of dry ice and food hanging from the ceiling. Make of that what you will and book your tickets to see for yourself.

Next up was Chef Kamil from Art Sushi who wowed us with sushi making right before our very eyes... this of course went down magnificently well with Liz, my friend, who despises fish....however, I will point out that Kamil's sushi actually managed to change her mind! Its just that good folks.
I can certainly back up just how bloody tasty the sushi was, I demolished several of the blow-torch seared salmon masterpieces, along with one or two of something else which contained prawn marinated in tea.....along with several other flavours (I know there were mushrooms....) Check out @artsushi_uk on instagram and find out more about Kamil's events and lessons.

Food kept coming with dishes from executive chef Matt Budden who whipped up a selection of 'nibbles' including marinated olives, garlic bread, lamb samosas and crab & salmon parcels. Honestly....I am still salivating over those salmon/crab parcels. All of these items are available on the menu and make the perfect 'sharing board' for nibbling on whilst enjoying a drink or two.

Speaking of drinks....during this time, the incredible bar staff were whipping up an incredible selection of cocktails which we sampled (Its a tough job folks, but someone has to do it!)... including a variation on a Pink Lady, a Prosecco Margarita.... and an Espresso Martini made with Conker Cold Brew. Given the town-centre location of Tonic Social, the gorgeous interior, the friendly staff and the welcoming atmosphere, I will most certainly be returning for cocktails a'plenty....and highly recommend anyone local do the exact same thing.

Head over to Tonic Social's website here to check out their upcoming events, menus, cocktails list and opening times. 

Emma-Louise