Kennedy's

Being one of the few late liscence bars, Kennedy's USED to be the domain of beer fuelled late night drinking and some very sweaty understairs dancing.

After a refurb, gone is the 'VIP' area that was enclosed in swaths of curtain material suitable for Aunt Matilda. IN instead is air con (!), subtle lighting, three newly stocked bars across three floors, the roof terraced more 'restauranty' area as well as new drinks and food menu.

Before i slated Kennedy's for being 'just another bar', which york has a LOT of. Now it stands alone not only for the brave new colour scheme that involves a lot of cream and purple which in the wake of the previous red/green/lilac combination is a vast improvement.

Improved too is the lavatorial experience. I can't say much for the guys, but the 'bettys' have squared sinks, loooong full-length mirror and the most exciting moment i've ever had in hand-drying. Seriously, you'll have to trust me on this one. Just one small note, the combination of low level 'flattering' lighting and dark colour scheme make for a somewhat claustrophobic trip to the loo, so if your over anxious go in pairs if only to admire the 'speed super-dry' hand moisture remover...

The menu's too are MUCH improved. There are now decent wines by the glass including Sancerre and Chianti, both of which are a nightmare in york to get outside of bottled measurements.

Like the drinks, food is more tempting and satisfying on the palate. When i was lazying on the roofterrace on a friday afternoon the newly appointed Cuban chef Carolos produced some very popular and generously portioned dishes. Looking especially good were the share plates that a party of six next to me had trouble finishing.

Down, understairs rumour has it that the dance area is still sweaty as ever. I was warned by the bar staff 'not to go down there tonight' followed by a nasal sniff , flick of the head and tut. So it seems improvements are moving in the right direction, but some things stay the same.

BUT ask nicely and they'll mix a fairly decent mojito, just watch them with the sugar; DARK, not white!