Let’s raise a glass to all the brilliant bartenders out there, who are helping us celebrate the start of the summer social season. There’s no better way to toast to their flair and talent than by visiting the best drinking spots that central London has to offer. Discover your next date-night destination below.
DUKES Bar St James’s
Shaken not stirred… these iconic words were written by DUKES Bar aficionado Sir Ian Fleming. There is nowhere better to sip on a martini than within this St James’s stalwart.
Green Bar Hotel Café Royal
The Green Bar at Hotel Café Royal has been a top spot for a tipple since its creation, with the bar even boasting a cocktail recipe guide from 1937. It remains a must-visit central spot today, with the terrace (in partnership with Cloudy Bay wines) our go-to al fresco spot for the foreseeable.
Aqua Nueva
This rooftop bar overlooks the majestic architecture of Regent Street, and yet it has a peaceful positioning that feels miles away from the bustle below. Settle down for tapas-style Spanish small plates and delicious cocktails to match.
Lockets London
Locket’s is a vibrant café and wine bar set in the heart of St James's providing an evolving all day menu. We like to pop there to peruse the wine list and enjoy a post meeting debrief with a colleague, or a lunchtime long tall cocktail on the secret ‘Garden Terrace’.
The American Bar at the Stafford London
The American Bar at The Stafford St James’s belongs to the great tradition of the American cocktail bars. These became renowned in London and Paris during the 1920s and 30s – so why not pay homage to the second wave of the Roaring 20’s and sip a signature serve from Bar Director Benoit Provost.
Bar Americain at Brasserie Zédel
Bar Americain in the Regent Street Quadrant offers guests an opulent Art Deco surrounding – ideal for sipping on a cocktail before heading to the Crazy Coqs for a night of jazz music or comedy. It’s a classic choice for a stylish evening – perhaps even pop to Regent Street beforehand to select a snazzy new outfit for the occasion.
If we’ve whet your whistle, you can discover the best indoor dining restaurants in our neighbourhood here, or make the most of the warmer weather ahead and book a terrace spot here.