The best bars in London

What's the vibe? London has been overrun with stylish listening bars recently, but few, if any, take such a fastidious approach to their drinks list as this wondrous Hackney Road specimen from Michael Sager, of neighbouring wine bar Sager + Wilde. This green-tiled treasure might have only opened at the end of 2023, but it has fast become a London cocktail classic.

When to visit: As often as possible. Their seasonal cocktail menu switches up every few months, with new concoctions to try, and they’re open from 10am on the weekend for morning coffee and pastries. 

What to drink: The Flor is a clean and thoroughly refreshing martini made with olive oil-washed vodka, fino sherry and distilled tomato water with just a hint of basil. And while few alcohol-free drinks satisfy the craving for something bitter and grown-up, Equal Parts’ no/low menu definitely does; so convincing is their alcohol-free negroni you might think you’ve been given the wrong drink.

Address: 245 Hackney Road, Hackney, E2 8NA.

Opening times: Mon-Thu 4pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 10-1am. Sun 10am-midnight.

What’s the vibe? The sweeping, grand Scarfes Bar can be found at the front of Holborn’s Rosewood London hotel. It’s plusher than a boxfresh Labubu, and all very vintage New York, with white-jacketed bartenders serving ice-cold martinis. On dark, moody evenings there’s even a roaring open fire to keep you warm.  The name comes from the fact that legendary British cartoonist Gerald Scarfe’s caricatures grace its walls. 

When to visit: There's live jazz seven nights a week. Time your visit for when you’ll hear something swinging, which usually starts around 7pm.

What to drink: Keep it sweet with a fizzy Moment of Clarity, made with Diplomático Planas white rum, tangy granny smith apple, earthy vetiver and fig leaf cordial. 

Address: Rosewood London, 252 High Holborn, Holborn, WC1V 7EN.

Opening times: Daily 5pm-midnight.

What’s the vibe? One for the crate diggers and soundsystem aficionados, Jumbi is a music-driven Peckham bar with big energy. A rolling line-up of London’s finest selectors soundtrack the evening with tunes chosen from DJ and local hero Bradley Zero’s iconic wall of records, while food and drink with flavours from the African-Caribbean diaspora will feed your soul.

When to visit: On a sunny afternoon - start on the terrace, then roll right through until close on the dance floor. This summer Jumbi are also taking over Copeland Square warehouse with the ‘SubSkate’ roller rink, and programming a whole host of music, art, panels and community events with the likes of Yussef Dayes, Slawn and Hak Baker.

What to drink: The rum punch, obviously.

Address: Unit 4.1, Copeland Park, 133 Copeland Road, Peckham, SE15 3SN.

 Opening times: Tue-Thu 12pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 12pm-2am, Sun 12-11pm.

What’s the vibe? Upmarket cocktails in a devilishly cool but down-to-earth location. You’ll find some of the best drinks in Bethnal Green - if not all of London - in this award-winning watering hole. It’s also known for a fairly uncompromising ’90s hip hop soundtrack. 

When to visit: Thursday night: the weekend begins early here – they still know how to start a party. It’s usually always busy here, but try and grab one of the seats up at the bar so you can watch the masters at work.

What to drink: The Peasant’s Margarita: triple sec, pink grapefruit juice, tequila, honey syrup. Down-to-earth and delicious.

Address: 343 Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, E2 9RA.

Opening times: Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 5pm-1am.

What’s the vibe: A 17th century, Grade II-listed building converted into a Blade Runner style drinking cave, with a hint of Bauhaus chic. It’s drenched in pink and orange neon and has a cute terrace out the back – a rare find for a venue so close to Tottenham Court Road. 

When to visit: When nearby Soho gets too rowdy, slink off to historic Denmark Street and this sublime spot. 

What to drink: They have over 350 kinds of whiskey on offer, and there’s also a vending machine packed with Dram’s homemade, pre-packaged cocktails. Regular bar takeovers mean you’ll also get to try cocktails from some of the world’s (other) best bars.

Address: 7 Denmark Street, St Giles, WC2H 8LZ. 

Opening times: Mon-Sat 12-11.30pm.

What’s the vibe? You’ll find Ellie’s in the shell of late Kingsland Road favourite Pamela (RIP). But don’t get too sad about London’s lost cocktail holes, as Ellie’s is a worthy successor; an easy-going neighbourhood drinking spot that’s big on vibes and low on unnecessary pretence. Charli xcx also had her wedding afterparty there, making it perhaps the most Brat bar in London. 

When to visit: On a balmy summer’s night, when their open front and pavement tables are a welcoming place to work your way through a punchy cocktail list, from a pleasingly tart raspberry daiquiri to an always-welcome spicy marg.

What to drink: Perhaps taking a hint from the very reasonably priced martini over at Rasputin’s, Ellie’s offers a £8 take on this thrillingly stiff drink. 

Address: 428 Kingsland Road, Haggerston, E8 4AA.

Opening times: Wed-Thu 5.30pm-12.30am, Fri 5pm-2am, Sat 3pm-2am, Sun 3pm-12.30am.

What’s the vibe? A chic wine bar and restaurant in London's alt-capital of the rooftop bar, Peckham. The bar snacks are serious stuff (don’t ignore the fritti) and the wine is outstanding. Plus, you can shelter indoors and still enjoy the views, making it a great year-rounder.

When to visit: On a balmy summer evening. You can even do a rooftop bar crawl; Frank’s Cafe and Bussey Building.

What to drink: A cherry negroni with East London vodka and gin, sweet vermouth, and sour cherries. If it’s really roasting outside, then nothing beats a frozen picante. 

Address: The Rooftop, 133A Rye Lane, SE15 4BQ.

Opening hours: Daily 12pm-midnight.

What’s the vibe: A lowkey, great vibes dive-ish bar from the people behind sandwich slingers Dom’s Subs. Hackney by way of Chicago, come here for B-movies playing inconspicuously in the background, occasional chess nights and excellent value drinks - including a £3 mystery shot, if you dare. Your new fave east London mate-date spot.  

When to visit: Every Wednesday is ‘parm night’, and the food menu expands from their usual hotdogs to slap-up slabs of breaded chicken parmigiana. Not into juicy meat? Then come by for Honky Tonk Tuesdays, with old-school westerns on the screens and classic country bangers on the stereo. 

What to drink: House martinis, which come stacked with five olives, are a miraculous £7. 

Address: 171 Mare Street, Hackney, E8 3RH.

Opening times: Tue-Fri 5-11pm, Fri-Sat 3-11.30pm. 

What's the vibe? The Standard hotel’s ritzy and joyful cocktail bar. Comes complete with jaw-dropping floor-to-ceiling views of King's Cross. 

When to visit: Sweeties is open until 3am every Thursday to Saturday, so save this one for when you're hunting down a post-midnight bevvy. If you’re an early bird (or just a cheapskate), then come through for their 2-4-1 cocktail happy hour, every Wednesday from 6-7pm.

What to drink: The Campari-based Let’s Go, infused with sweet vermouth, orange, mandarin and pink grapefruit, is the definition of a thirst-quencher. For a few quid off, it can also be alcohol-free.  

Address: 10th Floor, The Standard, 10 Argyle Street, King’s Cross, WC1H 8EG. 

Opening times: Wed 6-11pm, Thu-Sat 6pm-3am.

What's the vibe? Blondies is as close as you're going to get to hopping in a time machine and visiting CBGBs. A Clapton favourite run by a pair of Aussie sisters, this is a shrine to all things heavy metal – complete with rather demonic lavs. All hail Blondies. 

When to visit: Time your trip with a gig. Hardcore, punk and thrash bands regularly pitch up by the steamy front window to soundtrack the world's smallest, but most intense, moshpits. If you find yourself in Leyton, visit and support Blondies Brewery - which is fighting to stay open in the face of noise complaints

What to drink: Something cold. Try Blondies own beer followed by shots and then back to the beginning again. That is the Blondies way. 

Address: 205A Lower Clapton Road, Clapton, E5 8EG. 

Opening times: Thu-Sat 6pm-1.30am, Sun 6-11pm.

What’s the vibe? A Soho bar with a split personality. There’s aperitivo upstairs, nightcaps and whisky in the moody downstairs lounge. Can’t decide? Doesn’t matter - all drinks are flawless at Swift, which is no surprise - the owners have worked across London’s best bars.

When to visit: This is prime date-night material. And if Soho’s a bit of a stretch, don’t forget about the Swift spin-offs in Shoreditch and Borough. 

What to drink: The prosecco-based sgroppino contains lemon sorbet. Dreamy.

Address: 2 Old Compton Street, Soho, W1D 4TQ.

Opening times: Mon-Sat 3pm-12am, Sun 3-10.30pm.

What’s the vibe? A super-friendly neighbourhood bar in Peckham run by a local couple. Here there’s as much emphasis on huge tunes as there is on great cocktails; expect a soundtrack of Ghanaian highlife and Ethio-jazz.    

When to visit : Warm up for the weekend with a Thursday night trip. There’s no way of leaving without at least a light buzz. 

What to drink: Cocktails here are imaginative and delicious. We like the banana-infused Aperol spritz, the ‘Holy Negroni’ with kombucha and a martini made with oolong tea. If all that sounds a bit much, hit up the stacked natural wine menu. 

Address: 42 Peckham Rye, Peckham, SE15 4JR.

Opening times: Tue-Thu 5-11pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-midnight, Sun 4-10pm.

What's the vibe? A moody but friendly basement den with crafty cocktails courtesy of cocktail royalty, Ryan Chetiyawardana aka Mr Lyan. 

When to visit: They're closed Monday and Tuesday, but we recommend a mid-week or Sunday sesh to beat the crowds and have a chill one. You’ll find it downstairs at One Hundred Shoreditch hotel.

What to drink: The famous C.R.E.A.M. Margarita, made with Don Julio Blanco tequila, black plum, jasmine, cream and champagne. Or go wild with an Orkney Breezer, which has been filtered through a sheep’s pancreas, but somehow tastes like a Solero lolly. Expect a shrimp leather cocktail on the menu in the near future. 

Address: 100 Shoreditch High Street, Shoreditch, E1 6JQ.

Opening times: Wed-Thu 6pm-1am, Fri 6pm-2am, Sat 4pm-2am, Sun 5pm-midnight.

What’s the vibe? Mr Lyan has taken over the drinks menu at posh rotisserie chicken joint Bébé Bob (little sibling of notorious Champagne pushers Bob Bob Ricard), serving up a menu of cocktails designed to pair with a chicken-and caviar-centric selection of bar snacks. There’s no need to book into the Playboy mansion-style restaurant either, you can just hang out at the glossy front-of-house bar.

When to visit: Whenever you want to cosplay as a European aristocrat in the Golden Age, or celebrate Mr Lyan’s long-overdue arrival in Soho.

What to drink: A chicken bone negroni, or the imperiously good martini with a twist, which has the added option of a lemon cream and caviar doughnut on the side. 

Address: 37 Golden Square, Soho, W1F 9LB.

Opening times: Mon 5.30-10.30pm, Tue-Wed 12-10.30pm, Thu-Sat 12-11.30pm, Sun 12-4.20pm.

What’s the vibe? Peckham’s most popular seasonal rooftop bar, unglamorously perched on a multi-storey car park. The views are just about the best in town, and the crowd is always one of the coolest.  

When to visit: During the summer - Frank’s launches every May, only to be cruelly shut in September. Head up for a Campari at sunset and to check out the vast London skyline. The pink staircase is  now every bit a part of the architectural fabric of London as Big Ben. 

What to drink: Considering the heatwaves London’s been having this summer, a frozen paloma is the only ethical answer. 

Address: 95a Rye Lane, Peckham, SE15 4ST. 

Opening hours: May-September, Wed-Sun 11am-11pm.

What's the vibe? This Kingsland Road cocktail bar is a 1980s fever dream. It’s retro avant-garde in a way that brings to mind Slovenian performance- art spaces featuring video installations and even has the industrial trance soundtrack to go with it. 

When to visit: As part of a Dalston bar-hopping extravaganza which also involves Hacha, Brilliant Corners and Three Sheets. If you’re there in the summer, the unexpectedly large garden terrace is a fun place to hang out, overlooking the railway.

What to drink: The Ube Ramos; a frothy, rum-based cocktail made with chocolate liqueur, ube double cream, lime, lemon and soda.

Address: 480 Kingsland Road, Dalston, E8 4AE. 

Opening times: Tue-Thu 6pm-midnight, Fri & Sat 6pm-2am, Sun 6-11pm.

​​What’s the vibe? A terrifyingly fun horror-movie-and-sports-themed bar in central London, with more than 30 screens showing big games (sound off) and subtitled cult classics like Nightmare on Elm Street and The Shining. 

When to visit: After your first couple of after-work pints, when you want somewhere reliable. Thursdays get particularly raucous and it has a very decent 2am licence every night of the week. Don’t miss their loaded fries, tomato-based cocktail menu and various opportunities for organised fun - karaoke, arcade games, darts and pool.

What to drink: Ease yourself in with a leisurely michelada: refreshing lager mixed with tomato juice, lemon and spice mix.

Address: 27-29 Endell Street, Covent Garden, WC2H 9BA.

Opening times: Sun-Fri 12pm-2am, Sat 9.30am-2pm.

​​What’s the vibe? A small, low-lit room (how every good bar should be) on an Islington backstreet, with a subtle jazz-age energy. A truly classy joint with staff who are all incredibly serious about what they do. 

When to visit: Come for the live acts on a Thursday, or the in-house pianist tinkling away on Wednesdays and Sundays. And always remember to book – this place is popular for good reason.

What to drink: The mojito-adjacent Barber Shop Fizz, a cocktail made with gin, lime, mint patchouli and birch and soda, will leave you feeling fresh.

Address: 69 Colebrooke Row, Islington, N1 8AA.

Opening times: Tue-Wed 5pm-12am, Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat: 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-12am.

What’s the vibe? Possibly the most fun you can have in east London. Superstore has been a key part of the city’s queer party scene since 2009.

When to visit: Late at night, when it becomes more of a club than a bar. The sweaty basement dancefloor has seen appearances from countless world-renowned DJs over the years, with Bicep, Honey Dijon, Robyn, and the Blessed Madonna all popping behind the decks.

What to drink: If you book a spot at their legendary Drag Brunch for £6, you’ll be greeted with a mimosa or soft drink on arrival – a warm welcome typical of the Superstore.

Address: 117 Kingsland High Street, Dalston, E8 2PB.

Opening times: Mon 5pm-12am, Tue-Wed 4pm-12am, Thu 4pm-2.30am, Fri 4pm-4am, Sat 12pm-4am, Sun 12pm-1am.

What’s the vibe? Le Beaujolais is about as far away as you can get from London’s new wave of hip natural wine bars. Open since 1972, this robust timewarp of a venue comes complete with rustic French tables and ties hanging from the ceiling, like the last 1980s yuppie has only just been asked to leave. Pure Keith Floyd-core. 

When to visit: Be like the French and come for a small glass of Chardonnay on a weekday lunchtime - there’s a short menu of classic French cuisine too; croque monsieurs, steak frites and boeuf bourguignon. 

What to drink: Wine, of course. Choose from the chalkboard menus, or the exclusively French list; which is broken down by region, from the Loire to Bourgogne, via the Rhône, Bordeaux, and of course, Beaujolais.

Address: 25 Litchfield Street, Covent Garden, WC2H 9NJ. 

Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12pm-11pm, Sun 12-10pm.

What’s the vibe? A speakeasy-esque room tucked under Soho’s famous Lina Stores delicatessen, with a cocktail menu full of Italian twists.

When to visit: The snack menu would make a handy pre-show supper, but the intimate lighting and gentle hum of a La Dolce Vita soundtrack also mean this is a nice spot for a post-dinner digestif.

What to drink: The Bloody Martini (vodka, vermouth, crystal clear coffee-filtered tomato water) might be their signature, but the gin and prosecco-infused Beretta has its charms too.

Address: 18 Brewer Street, Soho, W1F 0SG.

Opening times: Mon-Sat 5-11.30pm, Sun 4-10.30pm.

What’s the vibe? A very, very late-night bar inspired by the Bauhaus design school of interwar Germany - but, like, fun! The staff wear Mario-esque boiler suits and you’ll find it with three colourful shapes instead of a name over the door. 

When to visit: The last stop of the evening - or should that be morning? A Bar With Shapes For A Name calls time at 4am, so why not slink in at 3am for a nightcap. It’s also surprisingly affordable (ideal if you’ve bankrupted yourself over the course of an evening, with cocktails starting at a ludicrous £4.60).

What to drink: The kazimir: a short, elegant blend of vodka infused with peach yogurt and absinthe. It’s a grown-up drink with the faintest delightful hint of a kid’s fromage frais.

Address: 232 Kingsland Road, Haggerston, E2 8AX.

Opening hours: Daily 5pm-4am.

What’s the vibe? An agave-focused bar in the grand, Grade II-listed former police station that now houses the NoMad hotel. There’s an old-school gentleman’s club kind of grandeur to this low-lit space.

When to visit: Late at night. Side Hustle is open until 1am on Saturday and Sundays, and is perfect for a night cap. Hungry? Time your visit for after your dinner at Twenty8 Nomad, the hotel’s newly-revamped in-house restaurant.

What to drink: The Churros Milk Punch, which includes vodka, tequila, cinnamon and maple, is at once comforting and nostalgic. 

Address: 28 Bow Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7AW.

Opening times: Mon-Thu 5pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 3pm-midnight, Sun 3-11pm.

What’s the vibe? One of the very last bastions of Old Soho, this subterranean speakeasy is stacked full of character – and characters. Like a bar from The Sopranos relocated to central London. Technically called the New Evaristo Club, everyone knows it as Trisha’s, because of iconic landlady and de facto Queen of Soho, Trisha Bergonzi. 

When to visit: You’ll need to be a member – or the guest of one – to visit. So check their Instagram page for details on how to join up. Once you’re in, there’s regular karaoke, live jazz and all manner of old-school naughtiness.

What to drink: This isn’t the place for lavish mixologist crafted cocktails. Stick with bottles of beer. Trisha’s is more about the vibe than tasting heaven via the medium of the martini glass. 

Address: 57 Greek Street, Soho, W1D 3DX.  

Opening times: Daily 5.30pm-1.30am.

What’s the vibe? Simply the classiest hotel bar in London. Regularly in the upper reaches of various ‘best bars in the world’ lists, the sleek, art deco-styled Connaught Bar isn’t cheap, but what do you expect? This is Mayfair, and you’ll be sipping cocktails next to minor European royalty, crypto-bros and bio-hackers with their blood boys. 

When to visit: When you’re feeling flush. Most drinks here will set you back £30 to £40, with the Silver Jubilee Rob Roy going for a whopping £2210.

What to drink: It’s got to be the martini, which is made tableside from a trolley stacked with high-grade spirits and handmade bitters.

Address: The Connaught, 16 Carlos Place, Mayfair, W1K 2AL.

Opening hours: Mon-Sat 4pm-1am.

What’s the vibe? Situated underneath arts space Guts Gallery, this Hackney Downs bar-slash-cafe bills itself as east London’s ‘FLINTA*-gay living room’. With cosy corners, low lighting, it makes for a great date spot – just as long as you’re cool with running into half the lesbians in east London.

When to visit: Choose from one of the fun events advertised regularly on their Instagram. Recent jaunts include a group dog walk, and a zine launch. The combination of super-cool and extremely wholesome is very Goldie Saloon.

What to drink: Classic cocktails and beers from east London’s Queer Brewing. The venue also takes a refreshingly wholehearted approach towards non-alcoholic options.

Address 10 Andre Street, Hackney Downs, E8 2AA.

Opening times: Wed-Sat 4-11pm.

What's the vibe? The second spot to take the Three Sheets name following the much-loved Dalston original. This isn't your traditional central London cocktail bar, but a place to enjoy contemporary classics brimming with imagination. 

When to visit: Opening at midday, this is an all-day spot. We suggest sneaking over in the early afternoon, before the evening rush to sip something strong and feel extremely chic. 

What to drink: A Mezcal Sunset, the grown-up older sister of a tequila sunrise, and more Ibiza than Benidorm.

Address: 13 Manette Street, Soho, W1D 4AP.

Opening times: Mon-Thu 3-11.30pm, Fri 3pm-12am, Sat 12pm-midnight, Sun 3-10.30pm. 

What’s the vibe? A hallowed hybrid of record shop and bar - come by during the day to flick through vinyl and have a nice little coffee, swing by in the evening for live music, and cocktails. There’s also a second outpost, Next Door Records Two, in Stoke Newington. 

When to visit: Pop by during office hours if you’re looking for a daytime workspace with a little more character than your usual coffee shop. 

What to drink: It’s also a bottle shop, so you can get something fizzy (and natural) to take home after a long day tap-tapping on your laptop. Or stay for a show! 

Address: 304 Uxbridge Road, Shepherds Bush, W12 7LJ.

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 8am-11pm, Thu 8am-midnight, Fri 8am-12.30am, Sat 10am-12.30am, Sun 10am-11pm. 

What’s the vibe? Dalston’s pleasingly grubby tropical party shack. Come for excellent tunes and zingy drinks, but best of all is the dancefloor out back.

When to visit: When you want to kid yourself you’re on a holiday. Happy hour runs from 6-9pm from Tuesday to Friday, with two drinks for £11, so get ready to double fist your way through the early evening. Sounds are of the non-specific good times nature, and the venue is ‘committed to fostering diverse female, non-binary and gender non-conforming DJ talent’. 

What to drink: The ginger mojito is one of London’s best drinks, but try the frozen pina colada if you're in need of serious refreshment. 

Address: 49 Ridley Road, Dalston, E8 2NP.

Opening times: Tue-Wed 6pm-2am, Thu-Sat 6pm-3am.

What's the vibe? Established by Heavenly Records at the end of the '90s, this bar has been a London nightlife hero ever since. Lovely wood-lined booths upstairs make you feel a little classy even if you're just sinking pints and arguing about indie music. 

When to visit: Time your trip for when the downstairs space is hosting live music or literature events, with folk from Faber Social, Trojan Records, The Quietus and Rough Trade Books often in charge of proceedings.

What to drink: Pints. But remember to become a member for drinks offers and raffle tickets for a weekly bar tab.

Address: 5 Little Portland Street, Fitzrovia, W1W 7JD.

Opening times: Mon-Wed 4.30pm-12am, Thu 5pm-1am, Fri 4.30pm-1am, Sat 3am-1am, Sun 4.30pm-12am.

What’s the vibe? A Thames-facing bar from an award-winning team of master mixologists, all done out in dreamy blue velvet. It’s also the first ever 3 Pin rated bar in the world - kind of like a Michelin star for cocktail joints.  

When to visit: When you feel like having your mind expanded. Mr Lyan hasn’t just created cocktails, he’s also developed a whole new roster of ingredients to power an imposing, sharply original drinks list.

What to drink: Try ‘Moo Reed’, with smoked camel milk, hummingbird nectar, grass and lemon – then never look back.

Address: 20 Upper Ground, South Bank, SE1 9PD.

Opening times: Mon-Wed 5pm-12am, Thu 4pm-12am, Fri 4pm-1am, Sat 1pm-1am, Sun 1-11pm.

What’s the vibe? From the same team who bought you Three Sheets in Dalston and now Soho, Little Mercies is doing its best to bring a little bit of an edge to the ever-quaint Crouch End. Sustainability is a big thing here, so expect spirits distilled in-house and super seasonal ingredients.

When to visit: Happy hour takes place from 6-7pm every day, and you’ll score 30% off food and drink. Proof that starting your sesh early is never a bad move. 

What to drink: The bold Tomato & Shiso, made with shiso distillate, clarified tomato, fermented strawberry, sherry and tequila. Want to carry on the party back at yours? You can take home cans of house signature sip, the bellini, as well as buying bottles of their kiwi gimlet, garden picante and Snickers old fashioned.

Address: 20 Broadway Parade, Crouch End, N8 9DE.

Opening hours: Tue-Sat 6pm-midnight.

What’s the vibe? You'll be forgiven for thinking you've stumbled into a chic Parisian bistro when entering this Camberwell cutie pie, run by Patrycja Lorek, formerly of the 10 Cases in Covent Garden. Pop into Veraison Wines to pick up a bottle of something natty to take home, or pull up a chair and settle in for an evening of quaffing and scoffing.

When to visit: When one of their local chef supper clubs is happening, or for a wine tasting evening complete with cheese. 

What to drink: Natural wine is the done thing at Veraison, and there’s always a £5 glass as the ‘staff pick’. Trust them. 

Address: 78 Camberwell Church Street, Camberwell, SE5 8QZ. 

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5-10.30pm, Fri-Sat 12-10.30pm, Sun 12-7.30pm. 

What’s the vibe? A subterranean drinking spot underneath experimental arts venue Stone Nest. The walls are concrete, the lights are low, and everyone here is gorgeous. The Boxer brothers - Jackson of Brunswick House and Frank of Frank’s - have crafted a menu full of highball cocktails and addictive small plates. In the former camp, enjoy tequila and mezcal-addled ‘ranch water’, in the latter, toasted sandwiches with Paris ham, Templegall cheese, boudin noir and Aleppo pepper honey.

When to visit: Check their listings for nights when there's free live music, which is regularly programmed by super well-respected promoters Bird on the Wire. 

What to drink: A sturdy ‘Ting Wray’ - Wray & Nephew rum, fruity, fizzy grapefruit soda and lime. 

Address: 136 Shaftesbury Avenue, Chinatown, W1D 5EZ. 

Opening hours: Tue-Sat, 6pm-2am.

What’s the vibe? Satan’s own late-night boozer.  If you like your music loud and your bands bearded, Helgi's is the one. Swing by after the witching hour, as this place is open late every night of the week. 

When to visit: Barely a night passes at Helgi’s without some themed, dark arts-adjacent event; be it corpse paint life drawing, heavy metal DJs, or live doom.

What to drink: Chug a michelada – the mighty Mexican combo of beer, lime and clamato juice – while you're pondering your next sacrifice.

Address: 177 Mare Street, Hackney, E8 3RH. 

Opening hours: Mon-Tue 8pm-1am, Wed 6pm-1am, Thu-Fri 6pm-2am, Sat 5pm-3am, Sun 3pm-1am. 

What’s the vibe? At the front is Elementary, an all-day hangout with high benches and stools plus really, really fun drinks; drinks are poured without pomp from pre-batched bottles. Tayēr is the more elevated, mixology-focussed, industrial-styled bar at the back.

When to visit: Is it mad to have a 3pm cocktail? Not when they’re from a place this classy. Get there for early doors and feel ever-so-slightly more sophisticated than you would at Wetherspoons at a similar time.  

What to drink: The sandalwood martini is in a league of its own. 

Address: 152 Old Street, EC1V 9BW.

Opening hours: Tue-Wed 3pm-midnight, Thu-Sat 3pm-1am.

What’s the vibe? This stripped-back cocktail den is all moody metals and concrete, livened up by sultry red lighting. And with only six or so seats at the bar, it’s as intimate as it gets. It’s underneath Georgian restaurant Kinkally, and there’s a small menu of snacks from upstairs to keep you upright.

When to visit: As part of an epic Fitzrovia bar crawl. Try also; the Punch Room at the London Edition hotel, mezcal mecca No. 23, The Remedy wine bar, and the storied Fitzroy Tavern pub. Finish by propping up the jukebox at Bradley’s Spanish Bar. 

What to drink: The ‘Diva’ is a punchy, potent concoction of vodka, beetroot, walnut, and blue cheese. Less like a salad than it sounds. 

Address: 43 Charlotte Street, Fitzrovia, W1T 1RS.

Opening hours: Wed-Thu 5.30pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 5.30pm-2am.

What’s the vibe? World-class cocktails in a refreshingly no-frills environment of exposed brickwork and tastefully muted colours. 

When to visit: It’s rare that a London cocktail bar is open on a Monday, so seize the opportunity to start the week off right; with strong pours and serious spirits. 

What to drink: When so many cocktail bars in and around Shoreditch are focused on passing trade rather than regulars in the know, sensational mixes such as a super-sharp pisco highball really cut through the noise.

Address: 8-9 Hoxton Square, Shoreditch, N1 6NU.

Opening hours: Daily 5-11pm.

What’s the vibe? Part of the new wave of London listening bars, Jazu is - shh, don’t tell the others - one of the best. 

When to visit: They’ve only been open a year, but already a run of serious talent has popped up behind the Jazu decks, from hip hop hero Talib Kweli to NTS regular Tash LC. Check the listings and visit when you know good sounds are in store. 

What to drink: The rye-tai is a whiskey based mai-tai given its fruity flavour thanks to kumquat and lime. You can also pay homage to Depford’s most famous local boy with a Charlie Chaplin; sloe gin, rum and apricot liqueur. 

Address: 2 Deptford High Street, Deptford, SE8 4AF.

Opening hours: Wed 5pm-midnight, Thu 5pm-am, Fri-Sat 5pm-3am, Sun 4-11pm. 

What’s the vibe? Very luxe. Hidden in plain sight amidst the noise of Notting Hill Gate, the room is draped in rich teal with touches of gold. When it comes to booze, Viajante87 is based around the concept of ‘drinking like a local’, with your choices all inspired by flavours which hail from Central and South America. 

When to visit: When you need a second wind and simple caffeine won’t do. The Paloma Cafe mixes tequila - or mezcal - with lime, bitter grapefruit cordial, and a hefty dose of cold brew coffee. 

What to drink: The ‘Pura Pache’ is clean and fruity and a good light cocktail to kick things off. But if you’re a fan of bitter, negroni-esque flavours, don’t skip over the ‘Blood Moon’. 

Address: 87 Notting Hill Gate, W11 3JZ.

Opening hours: Tue-Thu 7pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 7pm-2am.

What’s the vibe? A ludicrously high-ceilinged space inside St Pancras’s historic Renaissance Hotel, the Gothic Bar is a feat of Victorian architectural sass. Built in 1873 and designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott, the bar was the original entrance to the hotel. Majestic, much?

When to visit: You’re not much of a goth if you visit during daylight hours. 

What to drink: Cocktails are inspired by the most lavish of feelings; Ecstasy, Temptation, Grandeur and Desire. We liked Frivolity - a super savoury concoction of gin, Cocchi Americano, benedictine, coriander, sichuan pepper, mint and elderflower.

Address: St Pancras Hotel, Euston Road, King’s Cross, NW1 2AR.

Opening hours: Tue 5-11pm, Wed 12pm-midnight, Thu-Sat 12pm-1am.

What’s the vibe? The UK’s first independent sake bar, Moto is home to a whole wall of sake and a whole lot of knowledge. The room is narrow, just like the Shinjuku hole-in-the-wall of your dreams, with just a few seats up at the bar.

When to visit: When you want to eat as well as drink. The otsumami menu of Japanese style tapas is designed to elevate and enhance their sake offering, with a series of down-to-earth, home-cooking style comfort dishes. 

What to drink: A sake flight will give you a swift education in fermented rice beverages. 

Address: 7 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, WC2E 7NA.

Opening hours: Tue-Wed 12pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 12pm-12.30am, Sun 12-10pm.

What’s the vibe? A poky joint from the same people as vegan Sichuanese restaurant Facing Heaven. Easy 8 is replete with classic ‘dive bar’ signifiers; fairy lights, wood-panelled walls, a confusing array of wall decor, liberally tagged loos and eerie red lighting reminiscent of a David Lynch movie.

When to visit: On their Thursday night taco pop-up, where patrons line their stomachs with LA-style tacos for £2 a pop, before taking advantage of a 2-for-1 drinks offer.

What to drink: Their michelada is a dangerously drinkable concoction of Clamato juice, Tajin hot sauce, a good glug of soy sauce and a Modelo beer. Just the right balance of zing, saltiness and umami, you’d be hard pressed to find a better one in Downtown LA. 

Address: 159A Mare Street, Hackney, E8 3RD.

Opening times: Thu-Sat 6-11pm. 

What’s the vibe? A storied art-deco enclave within the hallowed underground Brasserie Zedel complex. It began life as Dick’s Bar, when this huge subterranean space was the Atlantic Bar & Grill and the late, great Dick Bradsell (inventor of the espresso martini) was the man shaking up cocktails. Little has changed since, and this is a good thing.

When to visit: Before - or after - a meal at Zedel, which remains one of central London’s best value treats, with a daily prix fixe menu starting at £16.95 for two courses.

What to drink: One of their docktails inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood. The Bogart is a French 75-inspired tipple, the only cocktail mentioned by name in 1942’s Casablanca. 

Address: 20 Sherwood Street, Soho, W1F 7ED.

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5pm-midnight; Fri 4pm-midnight, Sat 3pm-midnight, Sun 4-11pm.

What’s the vibe? Your most eccentric uni mate’s living room. Little Bat is full of great 1970s tat and dusty old hardback books, with a semi-haunted library feel at the back of the space. If you’re avoiding ghosts, sit up front, where the airy bar opens out onto a lovely little Islington side street.

When to visit: When you’re hungry. One of London’s hottest chefs, James Cochran, has curated their seriously good new menu, including his legendary fried chicken. Powerfully crispy, and topped with Cochrane’s sweet/fiery scotch bonnet jam, as well as a handful of crunchy corn nuts and smattering of fresh coriander, this is fried chicken as art.  

What to drink: There’s a whole martini menu, with pre-batched pour that come icy cold and as wet (or dirty, or dry) as you want. 

Address: 54 Islington Park Street, Islington, N1 1QL.

Opening times: Sun, Tue-Wed 5-11pm, Thu-Sat 5pm-1am.

What’s the vibe? Named after the Spanish term for ‘female truck driver’ – a euphemism for butch lesbians – La Camionera is inspired by Iberian bars frequented by the couple that run it, trans masc musician and DJ Alex Loveless and his Spanish artist partner, Clara Solis.

When to visit: Every Tuesday is singles night, with ‘low pressure speed dating, matchmaking, and games’, during which flirting with strangers is highly encouraged. How very retro.

What to drink: A classy little caña of lager, or a glass of biodynamic wine. 

Address: 243 Well Street, Hackney, E9 6RG. 

Opening times: Mon-Tue 4-11pm, Thu 10am-11pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11.30pm, Sun 10am-11pm.

What’s the vibe? Located deep in the bowels of the glossy OWO – once the Ministry of Defence HQ – the Spy Bar trades heavily on its history. Yes, this is the building in which Ian Fleming worked and came up with the idea for James Bond, and they don’t let you forget it. Thankfully, the Spy Bar isn’t an immersive experience, but simply a very good place to drink a cocktail.  

When to visit: When you don’t want anyone to know where you are. Photography is verboten at The Spy Bar - you’ll be given a sticker to pop over your camera lens on entry - and there’s a room lined with cosy booths just asking for a scandal of Profumo levels to take place in them. 

What to drink: A Vesper martini (shaken not stirred, and with both vodka and gin). First mentioned in Fleming’s debut Bond novel, 1953’s Casino Royale, the drink is named in honour of the original Bond girl, Vesper Lynd.

Address: The OWO, 57 Whitehall, SW1A 2BX. 

Opening hours: Tue-Fri 5pm-1am, Sat 5pm-midnight. 

What’s the vibe? It’s always La Dolce Vita at Bar Termini, with continental service and Italian aperitifs, and espressos. The teeny tiny setting offers the rare luxury of relative peace and quiet in central London.

When to visit: Early evenings are perfect for a cocktail before dinner in Soho.

What to drink: Marsala Martini (gin, sweet marsala, dry vermouth and almond bitters).

Address: 7 Old Compton Street, Soho, W1D 5JE.  

Opening times: Mon-Thu 10am-11.30pm, Fri-Sat 10am-1am, Sun 11am-10.30pm.

What’s the vibe: A dinky-yet-sleek affair serving Japanese small plates and natural wine, from Yukiyasu Kaneko, former master sommelier at P. Franco (now 107 Wine Bar in Clapton).

When to visit: Yuki Bar is Yukiyasu’s first solo venture, located under the railway arches in London Fields. At just 20 covers it’s not a big place, so get there early to bag a table - it opens at 3pm on weekends.

What to drink: The wine selection is compelling, so get on the rare and high-quality natural stuff. 

Address: 426 Reading Lane, London Fields, E8 1DS.

Opening times: Wed-Fri 5-11pm, Sat 3-11pm, Sun 3-10pm.

What’s the vibe: A subterranean venue tucked down a quiet Bermondsey alleyway which remains a must-visit spot if you’re into tequila and mezcal. 

When to visit: Come by for weekend brunch, where tacos and tequila is the move. You get a sharing starter of guac and chips followed by ceviche or corn ribs, a round of tacos and churros to finish, alongside 90 minutes of free-flowing margs, extremely quaffable micheladas and ‘meximosas’.

What to drink: Order one of the five very reasonably-priced agave flights at the back of the menu to get acquainted with some of the major distilleries on the market.

Address: 8 Holyrood Street, London Bridge, SE1 2EL.

Opening times: Tue-Wed 5-11pm, Thu-Fri 5pm-midnight, Sat 2pm-midnight.