As a London-based cocktail enthusiast, I’m excited to share with you the best places in London to visit this World Cocktail Day. London’s cocktail scene has been booming in recent years, with classic and modern cocktail trends co-existing and thriving in the city. From hidden speakeasies to rooftop bars with stunning views, London has something for every cocktail lover. So, grab your favourite drinking partner and let’s explore the best cocktail bars in London.
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Classic and Modern Cocktail Trends in London
London is a melting pot of cultures, and its cocktail scene reflects this diversity. Classic cocktail bars are still popular in London, with many bars paying homage to the golden age of cocktails. However, modern cocktail trends have also taken hold, with bartenders experimenting with unique flavour combinations and innovative presentation.
One classic cocktail trend that has remained popular in London is the prohibition-era cocktails. These cocktails were popular during the prohibition period in the United States, and they are characterised by their strong spirit content and their use of bitters. Some of the best places to enjoy prohibition-era cocktails in London are Nightjar and Oriole, both located in Shoreditch.
On the other hand, modern cocktail trends in London have seen bartenders experimenting with unique ingredients and innovative presentation. One such trend is the use of edible flowers and herbs in cocktails. Many bars in London, such as The Gibson in Clerkenwell, are using edible flowers and herbs to infuse their cocktails with unique flavours and aromas.
Top Cocktail Bars in Central London
Central London is home to some of the best cocktail bars in the city. One such bar is The Connaught Bar in Mayfair. This bar has won numerous awards for its exceptional cocktails and impeccable service. The bar’s signature cocktail, the Martini, is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
Another top cocktail bar in central London is the American Bar at The Savoy. This bar has been around for over 100 years and has been a favourite of celebrities and royalty. The bar’s classic cocktails, such as the Hanky Panky and the White Lady, are still as popular as ever.
If you’re looking for a bar with a view, then the Aqua Shard in London Bridge is the place to be. This bar offers stunning views of the city skyline, and its cocktails are just as impressive. The bar’s signature cocktail, the Shard-ini, is a twist on the classic Bellini and is a must-try.
In celebration of World Cocktail Day, LPM Restaurant & Bar, Mayfair’s chicest hideaway, is offering their iconic Tomatini three ways – classic, clarified and alcohol-free. LPM Restaurant & Bar in London is a popular dining destination located off Bond Street in Mayfair, attracting a crowd of Mayfair’s expensively-moisturized professionals. The restaurant serves southern French cuisine and provides a relaxed yet smart and elegant atmosphere, often compared to a members’ club without a membership.
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Hidden Gems for Unique Cocktails in London
London is full of hidden gems, and its cocktail scene is no exception. One such hidden gem is Satan’s Whiskers in Bethnal Green. This bar has a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere and serves up some of the best cocktails in the city. The bar’s signature cocktail, the Satan’s Whiskers, is a classic cocktail with a twist.
Another hidden gem in London’s cocktail scene is The Vault in Soho. This speakeasy-style bar is hidden behind a bookcase and offers a unique and intimate atmosphere. The bar’s cocktails are just as impressive as its decor, with unique flavour combinations and innovative presentation.
Rooftop Bars with Stunning Views and Cocktails
London’s skyline is one of the most iconic in the world, and what better way to enjoy it than from a rooftop bar? One of the best rooftop bars in London is Sushisamba in the City. This bar offers stunning views of the city skyline and serves up delicious cocktails and Asian-inspired cuisine.
Another rooftop bar with stunning views is the Radio Rooftop Bar at the ME London Hotel. This bar offers panoramic views of the city skyline and is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail with friends or colleagues.
Speakeasies and Secret Bars in London
Speakeasies and secret bars are a popular trend in London’s cocktail scene. One of the best speakeasies in London is Evans & Peel Detective Agency in Earl’s Court. This bar is hidden behind a detective agency front and offers a unique and immersive experience. The bar’s cocktails are just as impressive as its decor, with unique flavour combinations and innovative presentation.
Another popular secret bar in London is The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town in Spitalfields. This bar is hidden behind a fridge door in The Breakfast Club cafe and offers a quirky and playful atmosphere. The bar’s cocktails are just as fun and creative as its decor.
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Best Cocktail Bars for a Group Night Out
If you’re looking for a cocktail bar for a group night out, then London has plenty of options. One such bar is The Alchemist in St. Martin’s Lane. This bar offers theatrical cocktails and a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a night out with friends.
Another great cocktail bar for a group night out is The London Cocktail Club in Oxford Circus. This bar offers a fun and lively atmosphere, with music and entertainment to keep you entertained all night long.
Cocktail Bars with Live Music and Entertainment
If you’re looking for a cocktail bar with live music and entertainment, then London has plenty of options. One such bar is Cahoots in Soho. This speakeasy-style bar offers live music and entertainment in a unique and immersive setting. The bar’s cocktails are just as impressive as its entertainment, with unique flavour combinations and innovative presentation.
Another great cocktail bar with live music is Nightjar in Shoreditch. This bar offers live jazz music and a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. The bar’s cocktails are just as impressive as its music, with unique flavour combinations and innovative presentation.
Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Bars in London
For those who don’t drink alcohol, London has plenty of options for non-alcoholic cocktails. One such bar is Redemption Bar in Notting Hill. This bar offers a range of non-alcoholic cocktails and healthy food options, making it the perfect place for a guilt-free night out.
Another great non-alcoholic cocktail bar in London is The Virgin Mary in Shoreditch. This bar offers a range of non-alcoholic cocktails and mocktails, all with unique flavour combinations and innovative presentation.
Planning Your Cocktail Bar Crawl in London
With so many great cocktail bars in London, it can be hard to decide where to go. The best way to experience London’s cocktail scene is to plan a cocktail bar crawl. Start by choosing a theme for your crawl, such as speakeasies or rooftop bars. Then, choose a few bars that fit your theme and plan your route.
It’s important to pace yourself during your cocktail bar crawl, so make sure to drink plenty of water and eat some food along the way. And don’t be afraid to ask your bartender for recommendations, as they are the experts when it comes to cocktails.
Conclusion and Tips for a Memorable World Cocktail Day Experience in London
London’s cocktail scene is one of the best in the world, with something for every cocktail lover. Whether you’re a fan of classic cocktails or modern trends, there’s a bar in London for you. To make the most of your World Cocktail Day experience in London, plan ahead, pace yourself, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
So, grab your favourite drinking partner and head out to discover the best cocktail bars in London. Cheers to a memorable World Cocktail Day!
