Bars & Pubs

Lofty ceilings, huge windows, banquettes of polished black leather and unadorned oak floorboards - the Mercer's spare but decidedly handsome interior is perfectly in tune with the stealth-wealth vibe of its heart-of-the-City location. The cocktail line-up walks the same restrained but confident line, with old-school classics (including a hand-grenade of a martini) sharing space with quietly innovative creations such as a pleasingly earthy rhubarb julep. But the star of the operation is the vast wine list, which, thanks to the presence of two wine preservation systems, always offers 18 reds and 18 whites, all from interesting producers, by the glass (£4-£45) or 250ml carafe.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9