Aurum, Berkhamsted

An arto deco building incorporating The Rex cinema to the rear,this bar is mainly for cocktails (around £11),gin,wine and champagne.The foyer has a very high ceiling and modern chandelier but little else of interest,with a series of high tables opposite the bar,and lower level small tables elsewhere.The barman wore of bow tie,there is a greeter but there is a lack of atmosphere.Up a flight of stairs is a restaurant. Events are held here,a charity motown night was advertised with tickets for sale. There is a front patio with jumberellas,wicker furniture,space heaters and gas flames burners and you can eat here as well as inside. No real ale,all keg from 4 taps in Symonds cider,Guiness,Heineken and Amstel lagers (£5.55,almost tasteless) Unless you want to pose,there is no reason to visit .It's all style over substance.

The word pretentious could have been invented for this place. JD & Coke 4:15 bottled OSH 3:85. Loads of people happy to pay it despite a far from insiring environment.