Meet Stephen Russell

Stephen is a dedicated follower of alcohol. Dividing his life between freelance writing - with copious amounts of bar reviewing - and tending a beer-laden bar himself requires a serious amount of booze know-how. This, and his Scottish heritage, has stood him in good stead for this gig. He's easily pleased with good company, great conversation and tasty bar treats.

Getting To Know Stephen:

Rooftop bar or beer garden?
Rooftops offer the best view for people perusal, but gardens provide less opportunity for falling too far.

White wine or red wine?
Red. White tends to make me mournful past two glasses, and who sticks to two?

Tap beer or boutique beer?
Tap always - some dark magic is lost when the golden amber is trapped in glass.

Vodka or gin martini?
Vodka is my staple, but gin martinis for classy nights. Though what's classy about that much alcohol in one glass?

Cosy pub or swanky bar?
I'm swanky and skanky in equal measure.

When is enough enough, and when is it too much?
I'm Scottish - what does enough mean?

Best first date bar?
Forget the date, mates and booze are the best combination.

Do you rate a bar by its rest rooms?
I prefer not to spend too much time in toilets. You can get thrown out for that.

Pet bar pleasure?
When the bar staff learn your name and your drink fast, and come prepared with good chat.

Pet bar peeve?
Gross drunk people who aren't my mates.