Collection

This is a party bar for Kensington types, grown-ups and impressionable, attractive 20-year-olds looking to shape a lifestyle in London. The overblown entrance, flaming torches, red ropes and stern Balkan bouncers add to the illusion of class – you almost expect valet parking. You enter a sturdy two-level interior, one side lined with a long, copper-topped bar manned by staff who, on the night we were there, had an annoying sense of self-importance. Screens above show Fashion TV. No complaints about the cocktails, though: four £10 champagne varieties based on Taittinger (plus Stoli and fresh raspberry in the Russian Punch) and seven Collection Specials (£9), including a Lychee Tang of Absolut Citron, Midori and lychee purée. Absolutely delicious.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008

Services:

Booking: Booking advisable
Child facilities: Babies and children admitted (restaurant)
Disabled: toilet
Function room: Bar available for hire
Music: (DJs 8pm daily; £10 after 10pm Sat, Sun
TV: (big screen, satellite

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