A Sipper’s Guide to London’s Cocktail Bars

Exploring London’s cocktail scene solo? These iconic spots are a mix of style, history, and unforgettable drinks. One offers Covent Garden charm with Mexican-inspired cocktails set in an old police station, full of character and quirky margaritas. Another is a timeless Art Deco retreat serving up classic cocktails with posh bites like caviar and oysters, perfect for a taste of vintage elegance. For pure sophistication, there’s a renowned gem where cocktails are mixed tableside, bringing an air of refined elegance in every sip. And if you’re after something with a touch of celebrity flair, one bar curates cocktails inspired by legends like Coco Chanel, alongside a vintage spirits menu that feels like stepping back in time. Each of these spots brings something unique, making them the ultimate stops for solo sippers to savor London’s finest in style.

Side Hustle, Covent Garden

Looking for the perfect mix of unique cocktails, killer ambiance, and a story worth telling? Enter Side Hustle, tucked inside the uber-stylish NoMad hotel in Covent Garden. Yep, we’re talking about the kind of place where you walk in, take one look around, and think, “This is going to be good.”

This bar's got a past—housed in what used to be an old police station, so the vibe is as cool as it sounds. Imagine dim lights, retro furnishings, polished dark wood, and the walls decked out with Martin Parr’s quirky prints. There's a marble-topped bar with bottles stacked to the ceiling like they’re daring you to try every cocktail on the menu (which, for the record, would be quite the challenge).

Now, let’s talk drinks. Side Hustle is all about Mexican-inspired concoctions, and they do not disappoint. If you’re up for a margarita (who isn’t?), they’ve got two seasonal ones that are unlike any I’ve ever had. My pick? The sweeter one – with strawberry, tomato, jalapeño, and cucumber. Sound weird? Trust me, it’s magic in a glass. The other one brings a smoky, creamy twist, with verdita, avocado, triple sec, and lemon. Yes, avocado in a cocktail – go figure.

Feeling adventurous? The Frida is a must. It’s meant for two people, but hey, solo adventurers need not be discouraged. Served in a giant metal skull with a pineapple on top (of course), this drink is packed with Ocho Reposado Tequila, Paranubes rum, melon, guava, cinnamon, and cream. It’s like a carnival in a cup.

The Fumoir, Claridge’s

Stepping into The Fumoir at Claridge’s is like traveling back in time, but in the most glamorous way possible. Imagine a bar that’s not just pretty but downright iconic – we’re talking about one of the prettiest bars in the world. No exaggeration. This place has been around since 1929, and you can feel that heritage in every Art Deco detail. So if you’re solo and looking for a spot to sip a cocktail (or two) in style, this is it.

The drinks menu? Let’s just say it’s a hefty one – a phone book of rare spirits and cocktails that will make any drink enthusiast swoon. Sure, you could order something neat to show off your appreciation for rare spirits, but here? It’s practically a crime not to go for a cocktail. Their lineup of classic drinks is a nod to the bar’s long-standing history, so expect the big names: Espresso Martinis, Old Fashioneds, Negronis, Margaritas, and, of course, a textbook-perfect Martini.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting: the menu splits into “light” and “dark” cocktails. Light drinks lean towards Pisco, Campari, Tanqueray, and citrus, while the dark side brings bitters, absinthe, and Hennessy into the mix. Feeling indecisive? Don’t worry – they’ve illustrated the history of each drink, making your choice as entertaining as it is delicious.

And the snacks? They’re as posh as you’d expect. Think caviar, oysters, and even lobster Wellington with truffle fries. Why not go all out? After all, it’s Claridge’s.

The Connaught Bar, Mayfair

If you’re looking for a cocktail experience that’s as stylish as it is delicious, The Connaught Bar in Mayfair is the spot. This isn’t just any bar – it was crowned the World’s Best in 2020, and after one visit, I could see why. Set in the iconic Connaught Hotel, a London institution since the 19th century, this Art Deco gem has all the charm of the past with a dash of modern sophistication. Think shimmering mirrors, cubist decor, and a vibe that practically whispers, “You’re somewhere special.”

What sets this bar apart? For starters, the cocktails are mixed right at your table. It’s like a mini performance with each pour and stir. If you’re a Martini fan (and really, who isn’t?), their bespoke Dry Martini is a must-try. They nail that perfect balance between gin and vermouth, so smooth it almost feels like a magic trick. Not a Martini person? Try the Bloody Mary – it’s perfectly spiced and just the right kick to feel like a mini celebration.

The food’s just as impressive as the drinks. I’m talking plates of tuna tartare, crispy Korean fried-chicken oysters, and black truffle pizza. Yes, black truffle pizza. It’s fancy, but somehow cozy too – you can sit back, sip a beautifully crafted cocktail, and munch on bites that are equally luxurious.

So, if you’re around Mayfair and want to treat yourself to some cocktail magic and a dash of London’s elegant past, The Connaught Bar is a must.

Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese

Let’s talk about Velvet at The Corinthia London, where cocktails aren’t just drinks; they’re a trip back in time, with a little celebrity flair. Imagine walking into a bar where each cocktail has a personality – inspired by icons like Coco Chanel and Enzo Ferrari. It’s the kind of place where every sip feels like a toast to someone famous.

The star for me? The Gabrielle, a nod to Coco Chanel herself. This cocktail’s got champagne, a sparkle that screams luxury, and a dash of passion fruit caviar. Yes, passion fruit caviar – because why not? It’s bright, bold, and feels like you’re drinking a fashion statement.

If you’re up for something bolder, try Just My Imagination, a salute to Enzo Ferrari. Imagine salted ricotta in a cocktail – sounds a bit wild, right? But it works, adding this unexpected twist that makes you wonder why you haven’t been adding cheese to cocktails all along.

And for the real cocktail connoisseurs, Velvet’s got a vintage list that’ll make any collector’s heart race. We’re talking cognacs from the 1930s and vermouths from the 1970s. Sure, they come with a hefty price tag, but if you’re ever in the mood to splurge on a taste of history, this is the place to do it.