Although twinkling, Hoko-10 doesn’t shine quite as bright as the bars of the ‘diamond strip’ just around the corner.

The Venue
Hoko-10 is a relative small venue, but they’ve made sure there’s a big area for standing, drinking and shimmying in the middle. The only problem with that is that when it’s not busy it almost echoes. There’s one central pillar with a dinks ledge on it and alcoves along the far wall complete with high banquettes, mirrored backs and rosebud wallpaper. The black brick and marble-effect bar is overhung with massive beige lampshades, which are patterned on the inside. There’s a mezzanine balcony with textured silver wallpaper alcoves where you can loll against big, plump cushions. The name suggests some sort of Oriental theme, which is lost on the average punter.

The People
Young professionals drift this way, especially on a Saturday when they have sexy funky house, plus a live bongo player. The young bar guys are very friendly too.

The Food and Drink
You’ve got Kronenbourg, John Smith’s and Foster’s on tap, as well as Corona, Budweiser, Beck’s, Tennent’s and Duvel in bottles. Cocktails are £4.50 and there are two-for-ones to look out for. There are 18 blends in total including raspberry Mojito, Palm Springs and Strawberry Fields which is Chambord and cherry brandy mixed with fresh strawberries and finished off with cranberry juice. Cranilla is a favourite too, which is a regular mojito which the addition of raspberry vodka and cranberry juice.

The Last Word
Hoko-10 seems a bit lost. Maybe it’s something to do with that name.

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