London’s cocktail scene is famously, almost bewilderingly legendary — but where to start? Lucky for you, our local team at Fitz’s Bar & Parlour in Kimpton Fitzroy London have more recommendations than you can imagine — cocktail bars aplenty with the most amazing interiors that are guaranteed to ooze an envy-inducing Instagram feed — though we’ve narrowed down them down to our top five.
It’s time to explore our favorite cocktail bars in London. (Photo Credit: Laura Chouette)
When in London, you can rest easy at Kimpton Fitzroy. (Photo Credit: @heatherchecksin)
No matter what type of vibe you are looking to recreate in London, this city’s bar scene has it — from Victorian-era wine bars to sultry whiskey connoisseurs to the most popular spots that you just cannot pass up on a trip to London Town.
Here’s a round-up of some of the trendiest drinking spots the city has to offer — if you know where to look. (Which, thankfully, we do.)
Saunter Down to Soho
You can’t visit London without heading to one of its most well-known areas — Soho! Split over two floors, Bar Swift has the best of both worlds in that the upstairs bar opens at 3pm, the perfect time for a late lunch or to kick off early evening plans.
Then, as day turns to night, the downstairs bar opens its doors with an excellent selection of whiskeys and an array of creative cocktails. Live musicians add a touch of jazz to the friendly, relaxed atmosphere until the early hours.
Head to Soho for some of the city’s most eclectic bars. (Photo Credit: @dansenior)
You’ll find inventive cocktails like the Sgroppino, the embodiment of lemon sorbet in a drink. The cocktail bar also has a wide selection of mocktails for those looking to go the non-alcoholic route.
Our Pick: Go with the Irish Coffee (it’s the drink they’re most known for).
Walk into a Time Capsule
When you’re exploring the center of London, the Embankment is the perfect next stop. If you’re a history buff, Gordon’s Wine Bar is an absolute gem as it is one of London’s oldest wine bars, established in 1890.
The interior lures you in with dramatic low ceilings and an eclectic array of black and white wall hangings. Enjoy rustic French foods as you sample a glass of their famous ports and sherries. The bar is full of life and, despite its small size, is always welcoming and busy.
Experience one of the city’s oldest wine bars. (Photo Credit: Clem Onojeghuo)
Our Pick: To help avoid the after-wine hangover, there’s a natural wine, low-sulfur menu. We recommend the Orange Wine: Sciccu, Cretapaglia from Italy.
Have One Hell of a Night
For something a little edgier, Satan’s Whiskers is the place to be. From the outside, Satan’s Whiskers could be mistaken for your standard dive bar, but it makes the big reveal worth the wait once you step inside.
You’ll be greeted by a friendly bar team, an exciting list of cocktails, and that small-neighborhood feel. No two nights are the same — the bar is known for changing its menu daily, filling it with obscure cocktails and unique bar snacks.
And don’t forget the whiskey bars. (Photo Credit: @ambitiousstudio)
An inviting, cozy dive bar? Yes, please. (Photo Credit: @ambitiousstudio)
With vintage-inspired decoration and tasteful taxidermy (you read that right) this venue is the perfect spot if you’re interested in one of the quirkier bars that the city has to offer.
Our Pick: For a devilishly good cocktail with rum, we love the Hemingway Daiquiri as the bartenders get it spot-on every time. Don’t worry if you don’t see it on the menu — just ask for it!
When in Doubt, Go for the Best
Happiness Forgets is the 2016 Best International Cocktail Bar winner at the US Tales of the Cocktail event, and after taking one sip of one of their famous cocktails, you’ll know why.
Located in an unassuming basement in Hoxton Square, they add a personal touch to the setting by keeping half of their tables available for walk-in customers. With simple twists on the classics, this modern day, speakeasy style venue is a slice of reprieve in the busy city center — the best seat is at the bar!
Because is there anything better than a craft cocktail on a rainy day? (Photo Credit: Molly Keesling)
Make your way over to Shoreditch for an electric scene. (Photo Credit: Karen Uppal)
Our Pick: Try our go-to order, the Dirty Sanchez.
Still looking for more from East London’s cocktail scene? Head to nearby gems Callooh Callay in Shoreditch or Nightjar near Old Street station.
Discover a Special Treat Right on Your Doorstep
We couldn’t leave out our very own Fitz’s Bar & Parlour, part of the gorgeous Kimpton Fitzroy London. Named after the building’s architect, Charles Fitzroy Doll, the menu here pays tribute to legendary names of the local area.
Whether you’re having a casual drink or feel like dressing up to the nines, one sip of the expertly handcrafted cocktails at Fitz’s Bar will help you escape the everyday right in the middle of one of the world’s grandest, most famous cities.
Fitz’s Bar is known for its dry martini. (Photo Credit: @kimptonfitzroy)
Welcome to London. (Photo Credit: @justpoppenin)
Our Pick: Our head bartender’s signature Martini is a must-try — because you can’t go wrong with a classic.
Where to stay: Kimpton Fitzroy London
