We won't lie, Opium isn't the easiest venue to locate in the world. Located behind a fairly non-descript green door in China Town, this chic hangout plays host to three floors of amazing Asian cocktails and food with a contemporary London twist. A little hard to find, sure, but boy is it worth searching for.
Great Bars in London
There's a huge slew of bars in London all competing for your attention so it's worth doing your research to make sure you aren't spending your precious pennies in somewhere that's just average. Here, we've helpfully put together a list of the best bars in London that won't leave you disappointed. From funky Cuban bars to luxurious cocktail bars and exclusive bars in Mayfair, these are a few of the really great bars in London.
Looking for a great night out in Leicester Square where the music is on high and the cocktails are ever flowing? Then meet your night out mistress, The Long Acre. Perfect for birthday shindigs, evening drinks and dinner alike, The Long Acre is a great bar in London thanks to its bustling atmosphere and quirky interiors.
The Hollywood Arms provides a luxurious setting for trendy Chelsea residents to enjoy a few cocktails or an evening meal out. With its flamingo wallpaper and heavy draped curtains, it takes its decor straight from an upmarket home design magazine, making it one of the quirkier bars in Mayfair. Book now as it gets busy!
Famous for it's irresistibly vibrant atmosphere and exceptional cocktails, Ruby's in Dalston is an intimate retreat that has established itself as one of the capital's hottest drinking dens. With signature cocktail Blackberry Mojitos served in original 1940's Manchester milk bottles and the passion fruit Bison Vodka Juleps coming in tin cups, Ruby's unique vibe attracts visitors from all over London.
To call this luxurious cocktail bar a 'hotel bar' doesn't do it justice. Sure, it is technically a branch of the swish London Marriott on Grosvenor Square, but there's absolutely no doubt that this place could stand alone as one of Central London's finest watering holes. There's a prohibition vibe to the place, which serves up stylish cocktails in really decadent surroundings.
Based at the HQ of the secret society that ran Victorian London, The Escapologist is part modern-day Victorian men's club, part Masonic Lodge. It's one of Covent Garden's true treasures, offering a refined cocktail list, cheese-drenched pizzas and bottle service with guests having their own secret lockers in a beautifully designed basement space.
The London Cocktail Club is another of the bars on this list who are easily one of the best cocktail bars in London. This basement bar brings together some of London's greatest cocktail makers in a laidback and unpretentious drinking den to sample 'Gastro Mixology' such as squid ink sours or oyster bombs. Reserve a space in advance.
This quirky bar, Soho's most sophisticated secret, is a fabulous addition to the list of great bars in London. With Parisian chic drooling from the polished wooden surfaces and the plush leather armchairs, relax in a haven of luxury. Order a decadent dessert plate prepared by top chefs or sip a tasty tipple conceived by the experts in mixology.
Simmons brings its unique take on bars to Camden Town and Euston Square. Decked out in weird and wonderful kitsch décor, delicious cocktails served in crockery and a five hour happy hour, they've provided a winning formula for people across London.
Punch bowl sized cocktails, specialist mixologists and an oak paneled room? That would be what you'll find at The Punch Room, a timeless favourite London bar where you can douse yourself in classic supping and brooding atmospheres. Hidden in the London Edition Hotel she's a beauty for intimate drinks and vintage tinkerings.
Oxford Street is obviously the city's most notorious shopping spot, but what about their cocktail front? That comes courtesy of Be At One. Join them not only for some of the most affordable happy hours come sundown, there's cool cocktails, party vibes and plenty more.