London is a city that is full of wonderful things and its cocktail bars are no exception. In this article you will find the 5 most iconic bars in London.
The American Bar at The Savoy
Whiskey makers traded America during Prohibition for cocktails in London, the rest is history. With an elegant Art Deco setting, a beautiful grand piano, and perfectly polished vintage bar and glassware, many classic cocktails originated here. Like Harry Craddock’s White Lady (supposedly named after F. Scott Fitzgerald’s wife, Zelda). And today you’re in good hands with the winner of the World’s Best Bartender award, Erik Lorincz.
In the past legends from Hemingway to Sinatra, and today anyone who is serious about cocktails. You can count on a queue (and strict dress codes). Lately London has gone Gatsby crazy and The American Bar is a real London attraction.
Artesia
Regularly topping lists of the best bars in the world, it’s the perfect combination of decor, impeccable service and creative cocktails. New seasons bring unique collections (try vegetal notes with ingredients like mushrooms and frankincense), and there’s always a sense of theater (no boring glasses, instead unusual containers enhance flavors). Then there’s the extravagant decor, with floor-to-ceiling windows and chandeliers everywhere.
There’s no formality here, bartender Alex Kratena is all fun, ensuring cocktail lovers and newbies alike will enjoy the experience.
Duke’s 69
Looking for a perfect Martini? Look no further than Duke’s. His Martinis are so perfect that they inspired Duke’s regular Ian Fleming to choose the James Bond drink. The decor offers old-school glamour, with velvet-cushioned benches and vintage Martini carts. You’re sure to find classic gin with a twist, but also unusual truffle-infused cocktails. You can’t miss the experience.
Scattered around St James, the regulars are the Saville Row people who work nearby. Don’t show up in your skinny, ripped jeans. For a quick sip on the Martini cart, or to kick back at Duke’s all night; each visit feels like a true occasion.
Nightjar
This hidden and gourmet haunt reminds the locals during Prohibition. Nightjar is all brass and dark polished wood; and live old-school jazz completes the atmosphere. Lead barwoman Marian Beke draws inspiration from her journeys, from Bali coffee infusions to the iconic Deep Sea cocktail, made with deep ocean water and squid ink. She just remembers the strict no standing policy.
It’s not just for local Shoreditch hipsters, people come from all over London, so book in order not to be disappointed.
Colebrooke Row
This Italian cafe is the playground of Tony Conigliaro, aka Tony C. And his lab produces everything from vermouths and bitters to horseradish vodka. Try everything from the palate-cleansing Death in Venice to the masterpiece, Prairie Oyster, served in a ceramic oyster shell. Reserve first and then sit on a stool at the bar to watch the magic happen.
Cocktail lovers from around the world flock to sample Tony C.’s original creations. And so do jazz lovers. This place has become an icon in a few years, the menu respects the classics, but they all have their own original touch.