Pop-up concept bar opened to offer something different to drinkers

York-based entrepreneur and mixologist, Callum Houston, has launched a pop-up bar in the city.

Houston, who is also the founder and director of events company, Yorkshire Bartender, and distillery, The Yorkshire Explorer, opened the doors to his newest venture, Forage Bar, on 23 September.

The bar is on the vacant Gusto Site at 2-4 Little Stonegate.

Houston’s philosophy has always been to create high-quality spirits using sustainable and locally sourced produce.

He said: “It’s about using as much as possible from around us to produce the best flavour combinations possible.

“We’re training our staff to actively search for their own ingredients and to use the best that nature has to offer, as well as their own creativity, in order to create the drinks we serve.”

He said he is passionate about ensuring customers get the opportunity to sample drinks and flavours they’ve never tasted before.

Houston added: “We’re not hiding behind syrups, mass-produced products or artificial flavours. By using our own, freshly foraged ingredients, that we handpick and distil ourselves, we can create a unique range of tastes and deliver a drinking experience that is designed to wow customers, while keeping our impact on the environment to a minimum.

“Our menu is also constantly changing, depending on what’s available seasonally, so customers can expect new flavours and a new experience each time they visit.”

Forage will be open now until New Year, Tuesday through to Sunday. The bar has capacity for 105 people seated, and tables are booked on a first come first served basis.