London’s vibrant bar scene is a paradise for cocktail enthusiasts, and the city’s top bartenders are constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you’re seeking a classic drink with a twist or a revolutionary concoction, this guide will lead you to the best cocktails in London.
Ryan Chetiyawardana: A Master of the Mix
Ryan Chetiyawardana, a renowned mixologist, has graced London with two exceptional bars: Seed Library in Shoreditch and Lyaness on the South Bank. While Seed Library is an excellent establishment, Lyaness is arguably the more fully realized venue. Its new menu, the 3.0 Cookbook, showcases Chetiyawardana’s meticulous craftsmanship. Each recipe, painstakingly developed over months, is a testament to his dedication to flavor and innovation. A standout creation is the potato-based martini, a truly unique experience that explores themes of cravings and gut health. It’s a drink that sparks curiosity, much like Chetiyawardana’s approach to bartending — thought-provoking without being preachy. It’s a testament to his talent that this potato martini is also one of London’s most delicious martinis, a timeless concoction that, knowing Chetiyawardana, won’t be around forever.
The American Bar: A Century of Classic Cocktails
The Savoy Hotel’s American Bar holds a legendary status in London’s cocktail history. The bar has seen many talented bartenders over the years, including the iconic Ada Coleman, who held the helm for 23 years. As of March 2024, Angelo Sparvoli has taken over the prestigious position, and we eagerly await his new menu. While the bar awaits Sparvoli’s creations, you can still enjoy a classic hanky panky (gin, vermouth, and Fernet Branca), a drink invented by Coleman in the early 1900s. Pay homage to Coleman by starting your evening with this timeless cocktail before delving into the Journal cocktail book, a treasure trove of the American Bar’s rich history.
Dukes Bar: A Martini for the Discerning Palate
Dukes Bar, a favorite of Ian Fleming, is synonymous with the perfect martini. Originally created by Salvatore Calabrese, this martini is still served in the cozy hotel bar, expertly prepared by Alessandro Palazzi, the bar manager who has become synonymous with the cocktail. The magic lies in the meticulous preparation: a frozen glass is swirled with vermouth, with the excess discarded onto the carpet, before a generous five servings of frozen gin are added. A touch of Amalfi lemon peel is then expressed over the drink and dropped into the glass. One martini is perfectly satisfying, two might be pushing it, and three are strictly off-limits.
Swift: A Classic Irish Coffee with a Modern Twist
Swift is arguably the best-known destination in London for an Irish coffee. This cocktail, born in 1943, has become a beloved classic enjoyed year-round, a testament to its enduring appeal. Swift’s rendition features Jameson Caskmates Stout, Swift’s own coffee blend, demerara syrup, cream, and a dusting of nutmeg. This delicious concoction is available at all three Swift locations: the original in Soho, the newest in Borough, and the Shoreditch branch.
French 75: A Reimagined Classic at Kingsland Road
French 75 on Kingsland Road offers a unique take on the classic cocktail, showcasing the ingenuity of this small but flavor-packed bar. While not a traditional French 75, the bar draws inspiration from the classic’s structure to create a signature cocktail that is both delicious and innovative. The perfect balance of acidity and sweetness is achieved with gin, lemon, verjus, Moscato, and orange flower. The drink is then clarified and carbonated using a beer keg and served from a bottle, just like a glass of fizz. If you’re with a group, ordering a bottle is the perfect way to start your night in style.
Rules: A Taste of History with the Black Velvet
Rules, one of London’s oldest restaurants, is renowned for its Black Velvet, a classic cocktail that evokes a sense of history. This cocktail, a blend of stout and white sparkling wine, was created in 1861 at Brook’s Club to commemorate the death of Prince Albert. While modern variations exist, the original Black Velvet, a piece of London history, remains unchanged. Rules’ version, using Guinness and Champagne, is served super cold in a silver tankard, a true testament to the restaurant’s heritage.
Hacha: The Mirror Margarita
Hacha, a popular agave bar, has achieved legendary status with its Mirror Margarita. This signature cocktail, created by co-owner Deano Moncrieffe, has gained acclaim for its crystal-clear appearance (like a glass of water) and its perfectly balanced flavor profile. The drink can be served with tequila or mezcal, although the tequila original is our preferred choice. Hacha often collaborates with different brands to create new variations on this beloved classic, ensuring there’s always something exciting to discover. The Mirror Margarita is simply perfect.
London’s Cocktail Scene: A Celebration of Flavor
From traditional classics with modern twists to innovative creations, London’s cocktail scene offers a vibrant and diverse array of options for every taste. These are just a few of the many remarkable cocktails that can be found in the city. So, grab a friend, explore the city’s best bars, and embark on a journey of delicious discovery.
