If there’s something London isn’t in short supply of, it’s a cocktail bar. They’re everywhere and Martinis and Cosmopolitans are now being mixed all over the city inspite of the credit crunch. Some are cheap, some are very expensive. Some of them are simply right. Of course, it’s not at all times easy to share with those that are worth the money. This informative article discusses the Goldilocks of cocktail bars throughout the capital, and never having to venture in to a scary looking members club or swanky hotel bar.
1. Bourne and Hollingsworth – Rathbone Place
This tiny little slip of a place is really a newsagent to the naked eye. But once you spy the sneaky stairs, you’re treated to a beautiful 30s bar and some excellent mobile cocktail bars cocktails. The £7.50 Sebastian Martini wins points to be the most divine – passion fruit, vodka and champagne because ever important martini glass. (Cocktails always taste better in a martini glass, don’t you think?) Think flapper dresses and feathers and you’ve got the look just right.
2. Bob Bob Ricard – Upper James Street
This new haunt is taking trendy Soho by storm. It’s a morning meal bar, a patron and cocktail bar all rolled into one. How very U S of A. Press a dinky little button at your table to order more champagne (very nice touch) or have one of many charming waitresses bring you a rhubarb gin and tonic. It’s not cheap though. Drinks remain a tenner. It’s worthwhile; you’re investing in style here.
3. Fluid – Charterhouse Street
Cocktails AND arcade games? Yes please! Throw in certain sushi and this can be a fantastic little find in Clerkenwell. With favourites like Space Invaders and Pacman on the old school arcade machines, you’ll have a good time getting in touch with your inner child. They play great music and do a mean Polish martini. I’m more of a supporter of the long drinks, but if you actually really want to, you can have yourself a Wasbabi Martini. It’s a pricey night out though – most cocktails are £7-8.
4. Lab Bar – Old Compton Street
That is certainly one of the most popular cocktail bars in London and its obvious why. The cocktail list is gigantic. You’d be super hungover if you tried to work the right path through it. It’s not the cheapest cocktail bar – the drinks will be about £8 each, nevertheless the mixologists are some of the finest in the business and if you can’t decide what you need, you are able to always encourage them to whip up something new. Having your personal signature cocktail is pretty cool y’know.
5. Freud – Shaftesbury Avenue.
Freud is quite cool little place. It’s not only a bar having an immense cocktail menu, it’s also an art gallery. There’s always something interesting going on here. You’ll meet some very cool types here as well. Artists, writers and philosophy students mostly. The cocktails are mostly novelty, but it’s that’s your thing then you’ll really similar to this quirky little bar. Expect to cover around £6 for the tipple.