Welcome to the 99&Main Journal 

When you walk through the doors at 99 & Main, everything is ready to go. The music is playing, the bar is fully stocked, the glassware is sparkling and your favourite cocktail is only minutes away. What many people don't see is everything that happens before we open. Running a cocktail bar is about far more than serving drinks. Every shift starts with careful preparation to make sure every guest enjoys the same high-quality experience from the first cocktail of the evening to

Every celebration deserves a memorable setting, and whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a big party, the right venue can make all the difference. At 99&Main, we've hosted everything from birthdays and engagement parties to corporate events and baby showers. Of you're looking for inspiration, here are just a few occasions that deserve celebrating. Birthday Celebrations Whether you're turning 21, 30, 40, 50 or celerating another milestone, birthdays are always wort

Whether you’re new to cocktails or a seasoned enthusiast, some drinks have stood the test of time. From timeless classics to modern favourites, these cocktails continue to top the list in bars across the UK. Here’s our countdown of ten cocktails that have earned their place as customer favourites. 1. Espresso Martini ☕ Rich, smooth and packed with coffee flavour, the Espresso Martini has become one of the UK’s most ordered cocktails. Combining vodka, coffee liqueur and fresh

From prohibition-era classics to modern favourites, every cocktail has a story. At 99&Main, we love serving drinks that not only taste incredible but also have fascinating histories behind them. Here's a look at some of the world's most famous cocktails and how they came to be. Old Fashioned Often regarded as the original cocktail, the Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s. Legend and historical accounts point to the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky in 1880 as a k

More than just a drink - it's all about the details. Ever wondered what goes into creating the perfect cocktail? From choosing the right ingredients to the final garnish, there's much more to making a great cocktail than simply following a recipe. At 99&Main, every drink we serve is designed to be balanced, well presented and, most importantly, delicious. Here's a little look behind the bar at how we create a cocktail. It Starts With the Spirit Every cocktail needs a good fou

The Story Behind the Perfect Pint Whether you’re a lifelong Guinness fan or trying it for the first time, there’s one question that comes up time and time again: Why does Guinness taste so much better on draught? The answer lies in a unique pouring process, a carefully balanced gas mix, and over 260 years of brewing expertise. Here’s why every pint of Guinness is worth the wait. A Pint with History Guinness was first brewed in Dublin in 1759 by Arthur Guinness, who famously s

For years, choosing an alcohol-free drink often meant settling for a soft drink, fruit juice or a basic mocktail. Thankfully, those days are behind us. The alcohol-free drinks industry has evolved dramatically, with premium brands creating sophisticated alternatives that deliver the same depth, complexity and experience as a well-crafted cocktail. At 99&Main, we're always looking for ways to offer something a little different. That's why we're exited to introduce Three Spirit

Discover the world of whiskey one dram at a time. Whiskey has a reputation for being complicated, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're completely new to whiskey or simply looking to try something different, there's a style to suit every taste. From Smooth Irish Whiskey and sweet American bourbon to elegant Highland Scotch whisky and bold smoky single malts, this guide will help you discover your next favourite. At 99&Main, we've carefully selected whiskies and whiskeys f

There's more to making a great cocktail than simply pouring ingredients into a glass. Every detail, from the ice you use to the garnish you choose, can make a noticeable difference to the final drink. Whether you're mixing cocktails at home or ordering your favourite at the bar, these simple tips will help you appreciate what goes into creating the perfect drink. Ice Matters More Than You Think Many people believe ice simply keeps a drink cold, but it does much more than that

Gin has become one of the most popular spirits in the world, and it's easy to see why. With hundreds of different styles and flavour profiles available, there's truly a gin for everyone. Whether you're a long-time gin lover or trying it for the first time, understanding the basics can help you discover your perfect serve. What Makes Gin... Gin? At its heart, gin is a spirit flavoured with juniper berries. That distinctive pine-like, slightly citrusy flavour is what sets it ap