Best Cocktail Bars in London
- EH
- Dec 29, 2025
- 11 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Looking for the best cocktail bars in London? Here's a quick guide to six standout venues offering diverse experiences, from timeless elegance to modern mixology labs, speakeasy vibes, and riverside charm. Whether you're into martini trolleys or experimental cocktails, there's something here for everyone.
Quick Overview:
Connaught Bar (Mayfair): Art Deco luxury with a signature martini trolley. Cocktails start at $31. Reservations and smart dress code required.
Tayēr + Elementary (Shoreditch): Two spaces - casual drinks upfront, experimental cocktails in the back. No reservations; walk-ins only.
Lyaness (South Bank): Bold decor and creative drinks by Ryan Chetiyawardana. Located in Sea Containers London. Open daily.
Nightjar (Shoreditch): Prohibition-era speakeasy with live jazz and theatrical cocktails. Reservations are a must.
American Bar (The Savoy): Historic cocktail bar with classic drinks and live piano. Smart dress code enforced.
Oriole (Smithfield Market): Exotic decor, live music, and unique cocktails. Reservations recommended.
Each bar brings its own vibe, from the refined elegance of Connaught Bar to the lively creativity of Tayēr + Elementary. Plan ahead for reservations at popular spots like Nightjar and Oriole. Prices vary, but the experiences are worth it for cocktail enthusiasts.
Video: I Went To All The Best Bars In London
Atmosphere
Nestled in the heart of Mayfair within The Connaught Hotel, Connaught Bar exudes timeless Art Deco elegance. Designed by the acclaimed David Collins, the space radiates a sophistication that feels almost cinematic.
"Few places can muster a sense of occasion like the timeless, Art Deco elegance of The Connaught Bar, tucked within the storied walls of The Connaught Hotel." – cntraveller.com
From its marble floors to its plush leather sofas, every detail whispers refinement. This isn't your average spot for a casual drink - it's the kind of place you reserve for life's most memorable moments. Dim lighting and a seductive ambiance add a layer of exclusivity, perfectly setting the stage for a cocktail menu that’s as imaginative as it is luxurious.
Signature Cocktails
The star of Connaught Bar is undoubtedly its martini trolley, where master mixologists Ago Perrone and Giorgio Bargiani elevate cocktail-making into an art form.
"the trolley from which maestros expertly mix bespoke Martinis tableside is the bar's famed calling card." – cntraveller.com
Cocktails start at $31 (£25), a price that reflects the exceptional quality of ingredients and craftsmanship. For those looking to splurge, vintage options begin at $162 (£130) and can climb to an eye-watering $2,757 (£2,210) for the Silver Jubilee Rob Roy. Highlights include the Vintage Negroni, featuring Gordon's Dry Gin from the 1970s, Campari Bitter, and vintage Martini Rosso Vermouth. Another standout is the "Old Flame", a bold concoction with a flavor profile reminiscent of iced coffee, spiced up with a spirited kick.
Service and Guest Experience
At Connaught Bar, service is more than just a transaction - it’s a performance. Ordering a martini becomes an interactive experience as bartenders prepare your drink tableside, allowing you to tailor it with a selection of custom bitters. This attention to detail and personal touch has earned Connaught Bar a reputation for crafting London’s finest martinis. The seamless blend of Italian flair and polished hospitality ensures every visit feels unforgettable.
Operational Details
Connaught Bar epitomizes the pinnacle of London’s cocktail scene. Located at 59 Mount St, Mayfair, London W1K 2AL, the bar operates Monday through Saturday from 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Its popularity and intimate seating make reservations highly advisable, especially for those eager to experience the signature martini trolley. The venue enforces a smart dress code in keeping with its upscale surroundings. While the prices reflect the rarity and quality of the offerings, many agree the experience is worth every penny for a truly special occasion.
Atmosphere
Tayēr + Elementary, located at 152 Old St in Shoreditch, offers two unique experiences under one roof. The venue is divided into two distinct sections, each catering to different vibes and occasions.
At the front, Elementary provides a laid-back, all-day hangout with an informal yet stylish industrial design. It’s the perfect spot for casual gatherings or a quick drink.
In contrast, the back bar, Tayēr, transforms into a dimly lit, experimental cocktail haven.
The centerpiece here is a striking central island where mixologists create drinks right in front of you. With its futuristic ambiance and a menu that constantly evolves, this space feels like stepping into a cocktail laboratory. The clear division between the two areas ensures each has its own distinct personality.
Signature Cocktails
The cocktail menus at Tayēr + Elementary reflect the unique identities of each space.
At Elementary, simplicity and efficiency take center stage. The menu features classic cocktails served either on tap or from pre-mixed bottles, ensuring both quality and speed. One highlight is the One Sip Martini, priced at just $5. Full-sized cocktails start at $16, with options like the Cedarwood Old Fashioned and Vetiver Negroni, showcasing the venue’s dedication to expertly crafted drinks.
Tayēr, on the other hand, is all about pushing boundaries. Its menu changes daily, driven by seasonal ingredients and cutting-edge techniques. Creative concoctions like a rhubarb highball exemplify its ingredient-focused approach. This constant innovation has earned Tayēr a reputation as one of London’s premier cocktail destinations.
Service and Guest Experience
Both spaces operate on a no-reservation, walk-in basis, making it easy for guests to drop by whenever they like. During the day, Elementary focuses on delivering fast, consistent service, ideal for those on the go. In the evenings, Tayēr offers a more interactive experience. Guests can watch mixologists craft experimental drinks at the central bar, adding an element of theater to the evening. The contrasting service styles ensure there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for efficiency or creativity.
Operational Details
The dual concept is reflected in the venue’s hours and atmosphere. Elementary welcomes guests all day with its relaxed vibe, while Tayēr opens exclusively from Thursday to Saturday evenings for its experimental cocktail sessions. A smart-casual dress code complements the venue’s sleek, industrial aesthetic. With both concepts housed at the same Shoreditch address, it’s easy to explore both experiences in a single visit.
3. Lyaness
Atmosphere
Perched within Sea Containers London at 20 Upper Ground on the South Bank, Lyaness is hard to miss with its striking electric-blue decor. The design blends modern sophistication with bold, eye-catching colors, creating an inviting yet upscale vibe. It's the kind of place where every detail feels intentional, setting the perfect backdrop for the creative drinks it’s known for.
Signature Cocktails
Helmed by the legendary mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana, better known as Mr. Lyan, Lyaness takes cocktail-making to an entirely new level. The drinks here are anything but ordinary, with each one crafted to reflect the bar’s daring and imaginative spirit.
Service and Guest Experience
The service at Lyaness matches the venue’s polished atmosphere. Staff are attentive and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience. The crowd is a mix of hotel guests and locals, which adds a lively yet sophisticated energy to the space.
Operational Details
Open daily, Lyaness operates as part of the Sea Containers London experience, ensuring a consistent level of quality and service for its guests.
4. Nightjar
Atmosphere
Tucked away in a Shoreditch basement at 129 City Road, Nightjar whisks you back to the Prohibition era. This stylish speakeasy immerses you in the charm of the 1920s–40s, complete with live jazz that captures the spirit of the time. With its dim lighting, vintage decor, and carefully curated details, the space feels intimate yet theatrical - perfect for an unforgettable cocktail experience.
Signature Cocktails
Nightjar is renowned for its imaginative and theatrical cocktails. Each drink showcases a mix of seven or eight ingredients, often featuring rare or unexpected components. The menu is divided into three sections - 'old school,' 'mid-century,' and 'modern' - offering a journey through different eras of mixology. Adding to the charm, cocktails arrive in playful and creative vessels like brass birds, oversized teapots, or alchemist-style flasks. These whimsical presentations make the drinks as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate.
Operational Details
Nightjar's attention to detail extends beyond its drinks. The bar operates primarily in the evenings, staying open until 3:00 AM on weekends. Cocktails are priced between $17 and $22 (£14–18), reflecting the artistry and effort that go into each creation. With a strong 4 out of 5-star rating, Nightjar has become a sought-after destination. Given its cozy basement setting and high demand, reservations are a must to secure your spot.
Atmosphere
Step into the American Bar at the iconic Savoy hotel on the Strand, a place steeped in history since its opening in 1889. Known as London's first true cocktail bar, it played a pivotal role in shaping the city's cocktail culture. The ambiance radiates vintage charm, blending timeless elegance with a rich history of hosting Victorian elites and artistic trailblazers. Its refined yet inviting decor has drawn high-profile guests for over a century, creating a setting where classic sophistication meets modern flair.
Signature Cocktails
The cocktail menu at the American Bar is a tribute to mixology's golden age. Many of its drinks were born within these walls, crafted by legendary bartenders whose creations have influenced cocktail culture globally. Iconic options like the Hanky Panky, created by Ada Coleman, and the Corpse Reviver #2, a masterpiece by Harry Craddock, celebrate the bar's illustrious past. For those craving a modern twist, the Green Park cocktail - crafted by former head bartender Erik Lorincz with gin, lemon, and basil - delivers a fresh yet balanced flavor that has been widely praised. Under the guidance of Shannon Tebay, the first American and only the second woman to helm the bar, a refined menu of 15 cocktails was introduced during the COVID pandemic, ensuring the bar continues to evolve.
Service and Guest Experience
The service at the American Bar is polished and discreet, with bartenders dressed in classic white jackets preparing drinks with precision. These bartenders use traditional gold three-piece shakers to craft "tribute" cocktails, all while a live pianist adds a touch of elegance to the experience. As Difford's Guide describes:
"White-jacketed bartenders mixing 'tribute' cocktails to bartending giants using gold three-piece shakers to the sound of a live pianist." - Difford's Guide
For a deeper connection to cocktail history, guests can request a seat at the bar and explore the first edition of the Savoy Cocktail Book as their menu. This unique experience highlights the bar's commitment to preserving the legacy of classic mixology. A smart dress code further enhances the sophisticated and timeless atmosphere.
Operational Details
Located within The Savoy hotel at Strand, London WC2R 0EU, the American Bar welcomes guests daily. Reservations are highly recommended, given its prestigious reputation and central location. Recognized as one of the world's top 50 bars a remarkable 125 times, the American Bar offers a mix of historical significance and exceptional quality, making it a must-visit destination for cocktail aficionados.
6. Oriole
Atmosphere
Stepping into Oriole feels like entering a world of exploration and wonder. The interior, adorned in lush green and gold tones, is brought to life with an eclectic mix of global artifacts and ingredients that hint at far-off lands and adventures.
With its speakeasy-style charm, Oriole offers an intimate yet theatrical vibe, inviting guests to linger and soak in the experience. Often referred to as the "little sister" of Nightjar, Oriole sets itself apart with a more spacious layout, ensuring guests can move comfortably without losing the venue's signature cozy allure. The ambiance is further enhanced by attentive service, making every visit feel special.
Service and Guest Experience
Oriole is celebrated for its warm, intuitive service that perfectly complements its immersive atmosphere. Critics often highlight the venue's live music, which adds an engaging, dynamic element to the experience. Together, the attentive staff and vibrant performances create an environment where guests can fully escape into the bar's adventurous theme.
Operational Details
Given its popularity among cocktail lovers, Oriole operates with a reservation-recommended policy. House & Garden aptly noted, "we'd still recommend a reservation", emphasizing the venue's consistent appeal. The Latin American-inspired menu further deepens the sense of exploration, offering a culinary journey that pairs seamlessly with the bar's unique design. With its live music, expertly crafted cocktails, and captivating ambiance, planning ahead ensures a night at Oriole is nothing short of unforgettable.
Comparison: Pros and Cons
London's cocktail culture continues to thrive with an impressive variety of venues, each offering something special. Here's a closer look at the key strengths and considerations of some standout cocktail bars:
Bar | Strengths | Considerations |
Known for its Art Deco design by David Collins, a celebrated Martini trolley experience, and a reputation as one of the world's top bars | Exclusive experience comes with premium pricing | |
Offers two distinct spaces in one venue, a walk-in-only policy, and an experimental cocktail lab with real-time mixing at its central island | Walk-in policy can lead to potential wait times | |
Features stunning views of the Thames, a polished yet approachable atmosphere, and its signature blue velvet decor; first-ever 3 Pin rated bar globally | Located in a hotel, which might feel less personal | |
Delivers theatrical cocktails in vintage vessels, live jazz performances, and a speakeasy vibe | Limited basement seating means reservations are essential | |
Steeped in history as London's first cocktail bar, offering classic cocktails and live piano music | Enforces a smart dress code | |
Spacious compared to other speakeasies, with a Latin American-inspired menu and live music | Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity |
Each venue brings something distinct to the table. For instance, Connaught Bar exudes timeless sophistication, while Tayēr + Elementary leans into modern, industrial aesthetics with a focus on experimental mixology. Meanwhile, Lyaness stands out with its riverside charm and bold, stylish decor.
Tayēr + Elementary's walk-in-only approach encourages spontaneity, making it ideal for impromptu visits. On the other hand, Lyaness, led by Ryan Chetiyawardana, offers a sleek, innovative atmosphere that feels effortlessly chic. Whether you're drawn to vintage-inspired theatrics, cutting-edge cocktails, or classic elegance, London's cocktail scene promises something unforgettable for every palate.
Final Thoughts
London's cocktail scene is a vibrant tapestry, offering something special for every palate and occasion. Each venue highlighted here reflects a different aspect of the city's dynamic mixology culture.
For those who appreciate timeless elegance, the Connaught Bar stands as a beacon of sophistication, while the American Bar at The Savoy charms with its rich history and the soothing sounds of live piano. If you're more of a thrill-seeker in the cocktail world, places like Lyaness and Tayēr + Elementary are must-visits. Lyaness impresses with its bold, modern creations in a chic riverside setting, while Tayēr + Elementary's dual-concept layout invites you to dive into experimental flavors with spontaneity.
If atmosphere and theatrics are your thing, Nightjar and Oriole won't disappoint. Nightjar offers an authentic speakeasy vibe, while Oriole spices things up with Latin American-inspired drinks and live music that sets the mood perfectly.
Planning ahead is key for some of these spots. Venues like Connaught Bar, Nightjar, and Oriole often require reservations, especially on weekends. Keep in mind, these premium experiences come with a higher price tag, but they’re well worth it for the memories and flavors they deliver.
What makes London's cocktail culture truly shine is its diversity. Whether it's the industrial cool of Shoreditch or the breezy allure of the South Bank, each neighborhood adds its unique flavor to the mix. These six bars not only showcase the city's innovation in mixology but also cement London's reputation as a global hub for exceptional cocktails.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit London's top cocktail bars to avoid long waits or secure a reservation?
If you're looking to experience London's best cocktail bars without the hassle of long waits, timing is everything. Visiting during non-peak hours or securing a reservation in advance can make all the difference. Weekday evenings are usually less crowded, while weekends often draw larger crowds and typically require reservations.
For iconic venues like Connaught Bar, Nightjar, and Lyaness, it's wise to book ahead, especially on weekends or holidays. Many of these bars stay open late, so showing up earlier in the evening can help you dodge the crowds and snag a prime spot. Be sure to check each bar's reservation policies and operating hours to stay informed and plan your visit smoothly.
What are some unique cocktail experiences or must-try signature drinks at these London bars?
The Connaught Bar is celebrated for its signature martini trolley, where expert bartenders craft a custom martini right at your table - an experience that feels as indulgent as the drink itself. Tayēr + Elementary takes a bold, experimental approach to mixology, offering cutting-edge flavors served in a sleek, modern tasting counter setting. Meanwhile, Nightjar transports you to a speakeasy era, combining its intimate ambiance with show-stopping cocktail presentations that are both imaginative and delicious.
What should I wear to visit London's top cocktail bars?
Most high-end cocktail bars in London suggest a smart casual dress code, though a few insist on a more formal smart attire. To fit in, steer clear of shorts, ripped jeans, sneakers, or sportswear - these are usually prohibited. If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to dress a little sharper to complement the sophisticated vibe of these establishments.