An eclectic hub in Bermondsey a short walk from London Bridge station, The Last Talisman is an Asian bar and grill that sits clandestinely along a buzzing street in south east London

The Last Talisman was opened by The Breakfast Group’s Eric Yu and Connie O'Donovan, bringing their experience and passion for the hospitality industry to Bermondsey.

Their first foray into the business was Holborn’s Villa Stefano, which lead to the launch of Substation Soho & South, Saint, Jerusalem, Social London, Social Nottingham, Opium, and many more of some of the most vibrant and unique venues in London.

The Last Talisman is Eric and Connie’s latest venture, bringing a brand new touch of sorcery to the buzzing Bermondsey Street.

A unique concept, The Last Talisman is also home to Mala Madre, a Russian doll bar-within-a-bar, and features Bali and Colombian-inspired lights, chairs and wrap bar.

The definition of a talisman is ‘a person regarded as representing and inspiring a particular group’ - an apt description of the magical force of industry legend, Dre Masso.

As co-creator and master mixologist of Mala Madre, Dre pairs his Colombian roots and experience living in Bali to create a food and drink fusion like no other.

Sketched with true cocktail aficionados in mind, Dre’s artistic concoctions bring a unique experience to Bermondsey Street, with a bespoke menu distinct from, yet complementary to that of The Last Talisman.

The bar wears many magical hats, acting as a casual art gallery for some of the most exciting contemporary artists around the world, showcasing their work along their hallowed walls in collaboration with the Wild Beast Art Agency.

Both The Last Talisman and Mala Madre will play host to a combination of fine art, photography, sculpture, graphic art, urban art and illustration and will be presented and alternated every 90 days. The launch exhibition is from celebrated artist Maxim, who originally sprung to notoriety in the legendary dance band The Prodigy.

Dining at the Asian bar and grill is an enchanting discovery on its own. A Friday lunchtime stop here is highly recommended. Lunch-sized dishes include egg and bacon bao, Nasi Lemak and potato cakes that only black magic could concoct.

Cocktails are pure wizardry, with talented mixologist, Michael, on hand to blend, shake and serve first-rate drinks. Our favourites are the Bermondsey Sling (a preference among locals, according to Michael), The Last Punch (another favourite, because why not?) and the Ruby Vesper with smooth sloe gin, vodka, vermouth and cherry bitters.

For those who don’t drink alcohol, the Bloody Shame features house-made hot sauce guaranteed to set your soul on fire.

Good fortune doesn’t come to those who wait but to those who explore. And it comes in the form of tantalising cocktails and mouth-watering small plates served straight from a sizzling Asian grill, right in the heart of Bermondsey.

Book your brunch now, available Fridays between 12pm - 4pm and Saturdays and Sunday between 11pm and 4pm.

The Last Talisman, Drinking House & Asian Grill

171-173 Bermondsey St, Bermondsey, London SE1 3UW

Visit www.thelasttalisman.com or call 02081899546

* This review was written by a journalist with Société Magazine in return for an open and honest review. All of our journalist’s opinions are their own.