Scout

Scout is a London bar at 10 Chalcot Square, ranked 28th on the World's 50 Best list. It is known for Matt Whiley's zero-waste philosophy and hyper-seasonal British ingredients. This intimate London cocktail bar transforms sustainability from concept to craft, where every citrus peel, herb stem, and fruit core finds new life in boundary-pushing libations. Founded in 2017 by visionary mixologist Matt Whiley, known as The Talented Mr Fox, Scout emerged as London's first closed-loop cocktail bar.

Whiley's revolutionary approach earned international recognition, with his cocktail book 'The Modern Cocktail' featuring over 70 Scout-developed recipes. The bar's influence extends globally. Scout's cocktail menu reads like a love letter to British terroir, changing with the seasons to showcase the leading foraged ingredients, house ferments, and unusual infusions. The bar's signature closed-loop system means yesterday's garnish becomes today's syrup, while citrus peels transform into aromatic bitters.

Each cocktail tells a story of resourcefulness and creativity, from drinks featuring repurposed vegetable trimmings to spirits infused with ingredients that would traditionally be discarded. The premium craft cocktails balance innovation with accessibility, ensuring sustainability never compromises flavor. Whiley's team crafts each drink as both a sensory experience and an environmental statement. Its design reflects its ethos through minimalist aesthetics and repurposed materials.

Natural wood, recycled elements, and stripped-back surfaces create an intimate atmosphere where the bar counter becomes center stage. With limited seating, Scout fosters close connections between guests and bartenders. The transparent layout allows guests to witness the creative process, from ingredient preparation to final garnish. Service at Scout is attentive, with bartenders sharing stories behind each ingredient.

The team's knowledge extends beyond recipes to encompass foraging techniques, fermentation processes, and the environmental impact of every choice. Smart casual dress suits the relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Scout is a bar in London.