London, a city renowned for its vibrant nightlife, boasts a plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants and swanky cocktail bars. But among this glamorous crowd, Artesian stands out as a true gem.
This world-class cocktail destination nestled within the opulent Langham hotel is a haven for those seeking a sophisticated and unforgettable experience. Artesian has consistently been at the forefront of the cocktail world, earning the coveted World’s Best Bar title an impressive five years running, from 2011 to 2015.
Artesian’s luxurious setting is as captivating as its cocktail creations. The David Collins Studio-designed interiors exude a timeless elegance with a touch of Oriental flair. The bar’s jewel-toned leather seating, ornate lampshades, and grand chandeliers transport guests back to a bygone era of opulent sophistication. As daylight gives way to evening, the glowing chandeliers illuminate the space with a warm and inviting ambiance.
A Journey of Flavor: Artesian’s Dualiity Menu
A backlit mirrored bar serves as a stunning backdrop for Artesian’s impressive selection of spirits and liqueurs, which are the foundation for their innovative cocktail menu. The “Duality” concept, which drives the menu, seamlessly blends traditional techniques with modern innovations, showcasing two sides of the same coin.
Head bartender Giulia Cuccurullo, a true cocktail maestro, and her charming colleague, bar manager Lorenza Pezzetta, guide guests through a tantalizing array of flavorful concoctions. Lorenza’s expertise, honed through years of experience at iconic London establishments, ensures every sip is a delightful journey for the senses.
Unforgettable Cocktails: A Symphony of Flavors
Our evening began with a dramatic pairing, “Amo and Odi” (Love and Hate). The Odi cocktail, a harmonious blend of watermelon, cucumber, vanilla, spice, and Tanqueray gin, offered a refreshing balance of sweet and savory notes. “Amo,” however, took a more adventurous path, incorporating the unconventional flavor of blue cheese, along with Artesian’s secret umami essence, into a negroni-inspired masterpiece.
Next, we delved into the “Good and Evil” duo. The “Good” cocktail, a vibrant orange concoction, featured the sweet and tartness of passionfruit, perfectly complemented by the smooth floral notes of Hendricks Neptunia gin and a touch of Chablis wine. Its counterpart, “Evil,” embraced the unconventional, combining oxidized wine with malted whiskey and a zesty passionfruit husk liqueur for a bold and intriguing experience.
Continuing this journey of culinary adventure, we were drawn to the “Light and Darkness” pair. The “Light” cocktail, a harmonious blend of Monkey 47 gin, wasabi leaves, and fresh lime, delivered a bright and refreshing burst of flavor. “Darkness,” however, took a more mysterious turn, with Herradura Blanco Tequila, Galangal, and lime, creating a captivating and complex taste experience.
Elevated Cuisine: A Symphony of Flavor
Artesian’s commitment to elevating the cocktail experience extends beyond the bar, with their collaborative partnership with Humble Chicken, a popular Soho eatery, serving up delicious Japanese-inspired bites. Chef Angelo Sato, drawing inspiration from his family heritage, has crafted a menu of flavorful and sustainable dishes that perfectly complement the Dualiity cocktail offerings.
We savored tender Peking duck bao sliders bursting with slow-cooked shredded meat, and a creamy avocado tartare punctuated by tangy wasabi ponzu. The buttermilk chicken, with its crispy golden batter and spiced miso mayo, and the meaty tuna tartare adorned with sesame seeds and soy sauce, were a testament to the chef’s culinary prowess.
A Legacy of Excellence: Artesian’s Resurgence
Though Artesian may have relinquished its World’s Best Bar title, it remains a vibrant and captivating destination. With their reimagined menu and exceptional service, they continue to draw in London’s elite, eager to experience the magic of Artesian’s cocktail artistry.
From pre-dinner aperitifs to late-night indulgences, Artesian is a must-visit for any cocktail aficionado. They have clearly set their sights on reclaiming their coveted spot at the pinnacle of the cocktail world, and with their unwavering passion and creativity, it’s only a matter of time before they achieve their goal.
