London
The Best Cocktail Bars in London
The best cocktail bars in London, according to local chefs and food writers.
London has a diverse set of cocktail bars from classic and historic establishments to trendier venues and to hidden bars and speakeasies. We've compiled a list of the best cocktail bars in London; now the decision is yours to make, tailored to your preferences. All selections are based on recommendations from World of Mouth culinary experts like sommelier Jean-Trésor Vets, chef Santiago Lastra, and chef Fia Gulliksson.
Try the cocktail bar at Mexican restaurant KOL, the classic beverages at Church Road's bar, or cocktails from Wild by Tart's seasonal cocktail menu. Whether you're looking for a Martini or the best Manhattan in town, read on to discover London's best cocktail bars.
KOL Restaurant
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9 Seymour St
9 Seymour St, London W1H 7BA, UK
KOL is a Mexican restaurant by chef Santiago Lastra that highlights British ingredients through a Mexican lens. The warm, inviting atmosphere reflects the chef’s personal touch, and there’s a dedicated mezcal bar downstairs for those looking to enjoy agave-based drinks in a relaxed setting.
Recommended by
First time experiencing Mexican flavours in a fine dining setting and hopefully not the last one. Everything was top notch from beginning to end. From starting with an amazing Mezcal margarita to the exquisite menu (the mole!), in depth wine & mezcal pairing and the knowledgeable staff. Make sure to also visit the Mezcaleria with a broad selection of sophisticated cocktails for aperito or an after dinner drink!
Brunswick House Restaurant
30 Wandsworth Rd
30 Wandsworth Rd, London SW8 2LG, UK
Brunswick House sits in a Grade ll* Georgian mansion in Vauxhall, filled with character from its antique-decorated interior. The kitchen focuses on fresh British ingredients and a changing menu that keeps things interesting. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere just a short walk from Vauxhall station.
Recommended by
Vauxhall is not an area of London known for it’s notable eateries but Jackson Boxer has created an oasis in this ever growing high-rise residential desert. The venue is adjoined to an antique salvage emporium and the high ceiling and vast wall space of Brunswick House allow for some fantastic decor from their neighbours troves.The food is highly seasonal and showcases great British ingredients in an unfussy manner that allows the flavours and clever combinations to shine through. Weekday lunch menus provide super value whilst dinners show off a wider expression of the classy cooking available here.A relaxed bar staff mix up some great cocktails for the after work crew in the know!
Church Road
94 Church Rd
94 Church Rd, London SW13 9HR, UK
Home SW13 is a modern British restaurant in London known for its relaxed setting and welcoming bar. It has flexible spaces for private events and a team with experience in well-regarded establishments. Whether you’re stopping by for a meal or planning a gathering, you’ll find a comfortable atmosphere and attentive service.
Recommended by
”A modern British restaurant, Church Road is on the site of old neighbourhood gem, Sonny’s Kitchen. The kitchen brigade is headed by Sam Astley-Dean while Alan Parry leads the front of house team. Sam was most recently Sous Chef at Elystan Street, where Alan was Assistant General Manager. The glamorous bar at the front of the restaurant, decorated with mirrors and a marble top bar, plays host to pre and post cinema goers, as well as lunch and dinner drinkers” Fantastic service, ambvience and don’t miss out on the doubble baked cave aged cheddar soufflé with crisp shallots, leeks and mushrooms - addictive as hell!
Tayēr + Elementary
152 Old St
152 Old St, London EC1V 9BW, UK
Tayēr + Elementary brings together two distinct bar experiences in one London location—one relaxed and welcoming, the other focused on skilled cocktail-making. Their drinks highlight quality ingredients and clever techniques, and they also offer snacks if you’d like something to eat. It’s a laid-back spot that blends modern ideas with a friendly neighborhood vibe.
Recommended by
Alex Kratena and Monica Berg has opened a bar consisting of two different parts. One more casual bar for the ones that just want to drink and one that has as much craftmanship as you can find in a international modern bar today. Refined, creative and balanced cocktails. They also serve nice snacks and food
Carousel
19-23 Charlotte St.
19-23 Charlotte St., London W1T 1RW, UK
Carousel in London hosts rotating chef residencies and a natural wine bar in the heart of Fitzrovia. Its menu changes regularly, creating a fresh and creative dining experience every time you visit. The lively yet relaxed environment makes it an inviting spot to stop by for a glass of wine or a memorable meal.
Recommended by
Residencies and natural wine bar in the heart of London. Unique in its type, probably one of the best pop-up restaurants in the world, now in its new home in Fritzovia. Ollie and his team are making spectacular stuff in a stunning location; I recommend you to book the pop-up chefs on their website and to pop for a glass of wine and snacks to the wine bar anytime.
Wild by Tart
3-4, Eccleston Yards
3-4, Eccleston Yards, London SW1W 9AZ, UK
Wild by Tart is a neighborhood restaurant in London’s Belgravia, set in a former power station that also houses a bar, store, and photography studio. Their menu changes often and centers on sharing plates, making it easy to explore different flavors. It’s a relaxed spot for lunch or dinner, and they serve cocktails as well.
Recommended by
Sharing plates conceptMenu always changing and delicious Also does good cocktails Good for lunch or dinner Great location!
Chiltern Firehouse
1 Chiltern St
1 Chiltern St, London W1U 7PA, UK
Chiltern Firehouse is a high-end brasserie housed in a Victorian fire station, open all day in London. It has a lively atmosphere, cozy seating, and a laid-back service style that make it a welcoming spot for casual get-togethers or date nights.
Recommended by
Bistro extravaganzaVisited in 2018! Amazing food quality, everything to share. Easy and nice service. Super boheme location with cosy corner seatings and illustrious guests. Bar staff great…..amazing cocktails and also a super nice seafood raw bar. It's loud and I love it!
BiBi
42 N Audley St
42 N Audley St, London W1K 6ZP, UK
BiBi in London offers a modern Indian dining experience that balances traditional influences with a fresh, contemporary approach. They make good use of local produce along with a curated selection of spices from India, resulting in dishes that are both refined and satisfying. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it easy to relax and explore their inventive menu.
Recommended by
Modern Indian we have been waiting forLondon has no shortage of amazing Indian Restaurants. It takes something special for a new Indian Restaurant to be noticed, let alone to be showered with acclaim. And this is exactly what Bibi has done.It’s everything you want in a modern Indian dining experience. Using local produce with a curated selection of spices and products from India. It’s the right level of sophistication without losing its Indian soul. And absolutely love the way they used a small space to create a beautifully balanced menu, banging cocktails and an ambience to boot. This is special!
Los Mochis Restaurant
2-4 Farmer St
2-4 Farmer St, London W8 7SN, UK
Los Mochis Notting Hill brings together the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the refined style of Japanese cooking in a relaxed, art-filled setting. The atmosphere is lively without feeling stuffy, making it a welcoming spot for both drinks and a meal. Located in the heart of West London, it’s known for its inventive menu and stylish crowd, all while remaining down-to-earth and inviting.
Recommended by
Japanese Mexican fusion with great cocktails, tacos and atmosphereRecommend the steak asado, chicken taco, duck taco and shrimp makis. The guacamole is also great to start with and any tequila based cocktails!
Mr Ji Soho
63-65 Parkway
63-65 Parkway, London NW1 7PP, UK
Mr Ji Soho is a laid-back spot in the heart of Soho that offers modern Asian-style plates and drinks. The menu is designed for sharing, creating a casual atmosphere that makes it easy to drop in with friends. It’s a convenient choice if you’re looking for something fresh and enjoyable while exploring the neighborhood.
Recommended by
Super cool Taiwanese small plate fun in the heart of SohoBehind a small shop front in Old Compton Street the team are serving up great value cocktails and tapas style plates of modern Asian cuisine. A menu designed for sharing has an Izakaya feel. Dishes smack of flavour and fun. A perfect Soho pit stop!
Happiness Forgets
8-9 Hoxton Square
8-9 Hoxton Square, London N1 6NU, UK
Happiness Forgets is a cozy basement cocktail bar in London’s Hoxton Square, known for its laid-back, intimate setting. The staff puts care into each order, making it a welcoming spot to unwind with a well-crafted drink.
Recommended by
A cocktail bar that never fails to impress. The small cocktail bar Happiness Forgets in the basement at Hoxton Square is a place that never fails to impress, so much care and always a cosy atmosphere.
Apricity Restaurant
68 Duke St
68 Duke St, London W1K 6JU, UK
Apricity Restaurant Mayfair is recognized for its commitment to sustainable practices and a low-waste approach. The bright, relaxed setting highlights local and seasonal ingredients while supporting responsible producers. Visitors can also explore a carefully chosen wine list that reflects the team’s focus on environmental care.
Recommended by
A sustainable Green star restaurant that excels when you eat the vegetarian and plant based offerings especially on the tasting menu. A nicely curated wine list of natural Riesling blends and Lombardy Nebbiolos. The decor is homely but in a work-in-progress kind of way. The crispy oyster mushroom dish stood out.
Swans Bar at Maison Assouline
196A Piccadilly, St. James's
196A Piccadilly, St. James's, London W1J 9EY, UK
Swans Bar at Maison Assouline is a welcoming spot in London’s Mayfair, where shelves of coffee table books on art, travel, and design create a unique backdrop. It’s a relaxed place to enjoy drinks or a quick bite in stylish surroundings. The warm atmosphere makes it easy to take a break and appreciate the carefully curated setting.
Recommended by
Snacks, drinks and coffee among beautiful coffee table books on arts and travel in MayfairA thousand coffee table books on travel, arts and design surround this stylish café / bar in Mayfair. Worth just dropping by but I recommend a drink, coffee and sandwich.
Hoppers Soho
49 Frith St
49 Frith St, London W1D 4SG, UK
Hoppers is a popular chain in London offering lively flavors inspired by Sri Lanka and South India. It has multiple branches and welcomes visitors with a warm, relaxed setting. The inviting atmosphere and focus on authentic tastes make it a go-to spot for many.
Recommended by
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