The article features Sweeties, a cocktail bar and late-night venue located on the 10th floor of The Standard Hotel. The focus of the piece is on the bar's unique menu that includes feel-good ingredients, energising adaptogens, and nootropics, which are substances that may improve cognitive function. The journalist has visited Sweeties to experience and evaluate whether the offerings at this new establishment can indeed lift the spirits of its patrons. The design and ambiance of the bar, as well as its location within The Standard Hotel, are also highlighted.

Trailer Happiness, a popular rum lounge on Portobello Road in London, suffered extensive damage due to flash floods on July 12th. The flooding occurred just before the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, adding to the challenges faced by the UK hospitality industry, which has already lost 660,000 jobs and over £80bn in sales. The bar's basement was inundated, causing significant electrical and structural damage and making immediate trading impossible. A GoFundMe page and other fundraising efforts have been initiated to support the recovery, with the global rum industry and cocktail enthusiasts rallying to help. The bar's future remains uncertain, but the support shown reflects its importance to the London bar scene and the resilience of the hospitality community.

The article discusses the new curfew imposed by the UK government, requiring pubs, restaurants, and bars to close at 10pm, with no end date specified. The curfew is criticized as being ineffective by scientists and industry bodies, with the Food and Drink Federation and UKHospitality expressing concerns about the viability of businesses under the new restrictions. The article includes reactions from various hospitality industry professionals who are directly affected by the curfew and the impending end of the furlough scheme. They express frustration and fear for the future of their businesses and jobs. The article also highlights the lack of evidence that the curfew will reduce COVID-19 cases and points out the potential for increased private gatherings. The piece concludes by calling for government support for affected individuals and businesses and directs those in need to contact Hospitality Action and The Drinks Trust.