A Toast to the Classics: Legendary London Cocktail Bars
As a city steeped in history, London's cocktail scene boasts some of the most iconic bars in the world. These establishments have been serving up the finest drinks for decades, if not centuries, and have perfected the art of mixology. From the American Bar at the Savoy Hotel, which has been creating innovative cocktails since 1893, to the Connaught Bar, where you can indulge in a martini made tableside, these legendary bars are not to be missed during a night out in London.
Other classic bars worth a visit include the world-famous Dukes Bar, known for its superb martinis and elegant atmosphere, and the opulent Rivoli Bar at the Ritz. For a taste of history, pay a visit to Rules, London's oldest restaurant, which also houses a hidden cocktail bar on its upper floor. The impeccable service and timeless ambiance of these legendary bars will transport you back in time and make for a truly unforgettable experience.
Hidden Gems: London's Best Speakeasies and Secret Bars
For those seeking a more intimate and exclusive experience, London is home to an array of hidden speakeasies and secret bars that require a little more effort to uncover. Evoking the Prohibition Era, these bars often have unmarked entrances, secret passwords, and hidden rooms that add an air of mystery and excitement to your night out.
Some of the best speakeasies in London include the Blind Pig, which is hidden behind an optician's sign, and The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, which requires a password to enter through a hidden door in a fridge. Other clandestine favorites include Nightjar, a subterranean bar featuring live jazz and inventive cocktails, and The Luggage Room, a luxurious bar hidden behind a black door in the Marriott Grosvenor Square Hotel. These hidden gems provide a unique and thrilling experience that is sure to make your night out in London even more memorable.
Experimental Elixirs: Innovative Cocktail Bars in London
For those who crave adventure and novelty, London's innovative cocktail bars are the place to be. These establishments push the boundaries of mixology, experimenting with unusual ingredients, inventive techniques, and unique presentation to create truly extraordinary drinks.
Head to The Artesian, a multiple award-winning bar that combines art and science to create cocktails that are both visually stunning and utterly delicious. For a more immersive experience, visit The Alchemist, where you'll find molecular mixology and theatrical presentations in a laboratory-like setting. Other experimental bars worth exploring include Purl, known for its multi-sensory cocktails that engage all five senses, and Tayer + Elementary, which combines a minimalist front bar with a more experimental back room.
High Spirits: London's Best Rooftop Bars
There's no better way to enjoy London's skyline than from one of its many rooftop bars. These elevated establishments offer not only stunning views of the city but also a diverse range of cocktails to enjoy as you take in the sights.
One of the most popular rooftop bars is the Sky Garden's Sky Pod Bar, which offers panoramic views of London from the top of the iconic Walkie Talkie building. For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to Frank's Cafe, a summertime favorite located atop a multi-story car park in Peckham. Other noteworthy rooftop bars include the luxurious Radio Rooftop Bar at the ME London Hotel, the tropical-inspired Sushisamba, and the chic Rumpus Room at the Mondrian London.
Cocktails with a View: Bars Along the River Thames
The River Thames is at the heart of London's history and culture, and what better way to enjoy it than with a cocktail in hand? There are numerous bars along the river that provide stunning views and exceptional drinks, making them the perfect spot for a night out in the city.
One such establishment is the Oxo Tower Bar, which offers a sophisticated atmosphere and panoramic views of the Thames. For a more casual experience, visit the Gordon's Wine Bar, a historic riverside bar with a vast selection of wines and a charming terrace. Other bars along the Thames worth visiting include the Coppa Club's Tower Bridge location, which features igloos during the winter months, and the Tattershall Castle, a floating bar aboard a historic ship.
Going Green: Eco-Friendly Cocktail Bars in London
As the world becomes increasingly environmentally conscious, London's cocktail scene is following suit. Several bars in the city are adopting eco-friendly practices, from using locally-sourced ingredients to reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Visit the innovative Cub, a bar that focuses on minimizing its environmental impact through its zero-waste policy and local sourcing. Another eco-friendly option is the FAM Bar, which emphasizes sustainability through its use of recycled materials and commitment to reducing food waste. These environmentally-conscious bars not only provide delicious cocktails but also allow you to enjoy your night out with a clear conscience.
Worldly Libations: International Cocktail Bars in London
London's diverse and multicultural atmosphere is reflected in its cocktail bars, with many establishments offering drinks inspired by flavors from around the world. These international bars provide a unique opportunity to travel the globe through your taste buds, making for a truly global night out in the city.
Sample the exotic flavors of the Middle East at Zuma, a Japanese restaurant with an impressive cocktail menu that incorporates ingredients like yuzu and shiso. For a taste of the tropics, head to Laki Kane, a Polynesian-themed bar that specializes in rum-based cocktails. Other international offerings include the Peruvian-inspired Coya, the Spanish-inspired Bar Pepito, and the Scandinavian-themed Oslo.
Toast to the Past: Vintage and Retro Cocktail Bars in London
For those who appreciate the charm and nostalgia of bygone eras, London's vintage and retro cocktail bars provide the perfect atmosphere for a night out. These establishments take inspiration from the past, with decor, music, and cocktails that transport you back in time.
Step into the 1940s at Cahoots, a bar set in a disused underground station that evokes the spirit of post-war London. For a taste of the 1920s, visit the Art Deco-inspired Bar Américain at Brasserie Zédel, which offers classic cocktails in a glamorous setting. Other vintage and retro-inspired bars in London include the Victorian-themed Mr. Fogg's Residence, the 1950s-inspired Barrio, and the prohibition-style Nightjar.