Bars & Pubs

There can't be many better transport views than this in all of London. Sit at the cocktail bar (in between the two restaurant areas), and gaze out of what seems like a mile of plate glass, three storeys high, offering views (to the left) of trains trundling out of Charing Cross station, (to the right) of cars and red buses whizzing across Waterloo bridge, and in between boats and cruisers pootling along the Thames. In spite of its aircraft-hangar proportions, the space feels surprisingly intimate: plenty of bronze, walnut and slate, along with 'chandeliers' resembling elegant, elongated car filters, softened with spectacular flower arrangements, candles, and solicitous service. The drinks menu includes ten bellinis, nine martinis and a list of 1950s classics (manhattans, sidecars, and so on), as well as wines, champagnes and beers. Naturally, all are made with the finest ingredients - none of which comes cheap, but then at what price that view? Bar snacks include welsh rarebit (£6.50) and a selection of cheeses (£8).

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9