Rasputin's Review - london Bars | Christoff

Rasputin's: London Fields' Legendary £3 Mystery Shot Dive

Where authentic dive bar culture meets unbeatable value in Hackney

My Honest Review

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Rasputin's embodies everything you'd want from a proper dive bar - and I mean that in the best possible way. The venue scores a solid 8.5 out of 10 for flexibility, creating that perfectly relaxed environment where you can rock up without a plan and settle in for the evening. With an energy level that hits 6.5 out of 10, it strikes that sweet spot between laid-back neighborhood local and lively social hub. The Russian theming adds character without feeling gimmicky, and the space clearly caters to larger groups with a social group size score of 7.5. What really sets the atmosphere apart are the themed nights - particularly the Honky Tonk Tuesdays and Parm Nite Wednesdays - which transform the space and add variety to the weekly rhythm. The conversation-friendly score of 8.0 tells you everything you need to know about the social dynamic here.

Food & Drink

Let's be honest about the food situation at Rasputin's - it's currently limited to hot dogs, both all-beef and vegetarian options. While there are plans to expand the menu, no timeline has been confirmed, so don't come expecting a full kitchen operation. However, the real star of the show is the drinks program. Their legendary £3 mystery shots have become something of a local institution, offering incredible value that's hard to find anywhere else in London. The bar serves quality beers and cocktails alongside these famous shots, creating a solid drinking experience that focuses on value and authenticity over fancy presentation. The mystery shots are clearly the main draw here, and at that price point, they're practically irresistible for anyone looking to add some spontaneity to their night.

Service & Experience

While specific details about the service aren't available, the venue's high scores for conversation-friendliness and social gathering suggest a welcoming environment where staff facilitate rather than interfere with the good times. The relaxed neighborhood setting and local favorite status indicate that the team understands their clientele and creates an atmosphere where regulars feel at home. The themed nights require some level of coordination and planning, suggesting the staff are engaged in creating experiences beyond just pouring drinks.

Value for Money

This is where Rasputin's absolutely shines. With a price level of just 1 out of 4, it's firmly positioned as a budget-friendly option in an area where drinks can easily break the bank. Those £3 mystery shots are the headline act - try finding that value anywhere else in Zone 2 London. The combination of quality beers, cocktails, and those famous shots means you can have a proper night out without the financial hangover. For a generation dealing with London's increasingly expensive nightlife scene, Rasputin's offers genuine value that doesn't compromise on the experience.

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

Based on their schedule, Tuesday through Friday from 5pm-11pm offers the most intimate experience, while weekends (3pm-11:30pm) will be busier but more energetic. Note they're closed Mondays. The themed nights are clearly the sweet spot - Honky Tonk Tuesday for country vibes or Wednesday's Parm Nite for something different.

What to Focus On

The £3 mystery shots are absolutely mandatory - they're not just cheap, they're the venue's calling card. Pair them with their quality beer selection for a classic dive bar experience that won't empty your wallet.

Christoff's Insider Tips

Hit up the themed nights rather than regular evenings - Honky Tonk Tuesday and Parm Nite Wednesday are where this place really comes aliveFollow their Instagram @rasputinsbar since that's their main communication channel and they don't have a traditional websiteThe venue caters to larger groups, so it's perfect for bringing a crew rather than an intimate date spot

The Final Verdict

Rasputin's succeeds precisely because it doesn't try to be anything other than what it is - an authentic dive bar that prioritizes value, community, and good times over pretension. The limited food menu is a genuine drawback, but the legendary £3 mystery shots and solid drinks program more than compensate. The themed nights elevate it beyond your average local, while the budget-friendly pricing makes it accessible to the young crowd that's clearly embraced it. It's Instagram-worthy in that authentic, unpretentious way that actually photographs well, and the neighborhood setting gives it genuine local character.

Christoff's Rating:

7.2/10

Perfect For:

budget-conscious students and young professionalsgroups looking for a relaxed social gathering spotdive bar enthusiasts seeking authentic London Fields character

Rasputin's

Rasputin's

Christoff's Take

Rasputin's: London Fields' Legendary £3 Mystery Shot Dive

My Honest Review

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Food & Drink

Service & Experience

Value for Money

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

What to Focus On

Christoff's Insider Tips

The Final Verdict

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Quick Details

Rasputin's

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