In Soho, the night is an artist, splashing the town with a palette of emotions. The bars are its gallery, showcasing a spectrum of tastes and vibes that cater to every craving and curiosity.
From the rustic charm of hidden taverns to the sleek elegance of contemporary lounges, Soho’s bars are a testament to the kaleidoscope of experiences waiting to be explored.
Don’t believe us? Join me as we raise our glasses and delve into a realm where every sip tells a story and every cocktail is a masterpiece in a glass.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
–Media from socialeathouse
Location: Social Eating House, 58 Poland St, London W1F 7NR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7993 3251
The Blind Pig knows how to play coy, hiding its entrance like a mischievous sprite. Think you’ve stumbled upon a plain old ground-floor restaurant? Think again! A subtle stairway whisks you away to a world where jazz-age charm meets contemporary chic.
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – the cocktails. From a smoky Old Cuban that’ll transport you to Havana’s heyday to the delicate yet bold flavours of the Gin Genie, The Blind Pig’s cocktail menu is a symphony of flavours that’ll leave you humming with delight.
The Piano Bar Soho
–Media from soholivemusicclub
Location: 16 Carlisle St, London W1D 3BT, United Kingdom
Contact: 020 3026 0158
The Piano Bar knows how to set the stage for a night of unparalleled elegance. Picture this: you walk into a dimly lit space where velvety reds and rich gold wrap around you like a musical embrace. Classy, right? But here’s the kicker – there’s an actual grand piano.
Oh, but that’s not all! The Piano Bar takes their libations to a whole new level by infusing musical inspiration into their drinks. Well, get ready to be serenaded by the likes of “The Jazz Odyssey” or “Rock ‘n’ Rose”.
Bar Termini
–Media from terminisoho
Location: 7 Old Compton St, London W1D 5JE, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7860 945018
This bar is a throwback to 1950s Italian elegance, transporting you to an era when martinis and Manhattans reigned supreme. Every detail, from the vintage glassware to the perfectly executed classic recipes, whispers stories of a bygone era.
Ever had a Negroni that’s so perfect, it’s practically a work of art? Well, welcome to Bar Termini, where they take their Italian cocktails seriously.
From the iconic Negroni to lesser-known gems like the Americano, every drink is a testament to the bar’s commitment to crafting liquid masterpieces.
The Blue Posts
–Media from thebluepostssoho
Location: 22 Berwick St, London W1F 0QA, United Kingdom
Contact: You may contact them here
From a curated collection of rare and vintage bottles to house-infused spirits that redefine flavour, this bar takes sipping to a whole new level. Ever wondered what a truffle-infused gin might taste like? Well, The Blue Posts can make that thought a reality.
But what truly sets it apart is its well-guarded secret: The Mulwray’s Back Room. You’ll step through a hidden door and find yourself in a clandestine haven, where only those in the know can uncover its treasures.
Cahoots
–Media from cahootslondon
Location: 13 Kingly Ct, Carnaby, London W1B 5PW, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7352 6200
Close your eyes and imagine being whisked away to the bustling streets of post-war London, circa the 1940s. That’s the enchanting journey Cahoots offers as soon as you step through its doors.
Alright, let’s dive into the main act – the cocktails. Think classic cocktails with a modern twist. How about a “Nuclear Daiquiri” that’s as explosive in flavour as it sounds? Or the “In Cahoots with Mr Fogg”, an intriguing concoction that’ll have you guessing until the last drop.
The Vault
–Media from milroysofsoho
Location: 3 Greek St, London W1D 4NX, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 8106 0630
The Vault manages to balance vintage allure with a contemporary edge, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and fresh. It’s like stepping into a movie scene where the aesthetics alone tell a tale of intrigue and allure.
The mixologists at The Vault are true maestros, crafting liquid symphonies that dance upon your palate. Take, for instance, the “Soho Noir”, a concoction that marries gin with blackberries and fresh citrus, invoking the spirit of Soho’s vibrant vibe.
Swift Soho
–Media from swiftbars
Location: 12 Old Compton St, London W1D 4TQ, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
First and foremost, why the name “Swift”? The moniker pays homage to Sir Jonathan Swift, the prolific author of “Gulliver’s Travels”, whose inventive spirit and insatiable thirst for exploration serve as a fitting inspiration for a bar that is itself a journey through flavours and fables.
Now, you may be wondering what drink they’re known for. Well, it’s “The Bramble” – a blend of gin, blackberry liqueur, and citrus, capturing the essence of the bar in every delightful sip.
The Lyric
–Media from thelyricpub
Location: 37 Great Windmill St, London W1D 7LT, United Kingdom
Contact: 020 7434 0604
The Lyric, created by Dee Davies and Barbara Czyzewska, hospitality and mixology experts, offers more than a bar visit – it’s a voyage into flavour, creativity, and shared moments.
And the pièce de résistance? Their signature cocktail is aptly named “The Lyric Martini”. It’s a concoction that pays homage to the classics while embracing innovation, resulting in a libation that’s a harmonious melody of taste and texture.
Barrio Soho
–Media from juicedintimefm
Location: 6 Poland St, London W1F 8PS, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7749 3944
With neon lights, colourful murals, and quirky accents create an atmosphere that’s as lively as a carnival parade. Going inside Barrio Soho is like stepping into a world where every moment is a celebration and every sip is a toast to life.
But hold onto your sombrero – Barrio Soho isn’t just about cocktails. Their culinary creations are fit for a fiesta! Imagine relishing a “Chilli Beef Burrito” that’s a symphony of flavours wrapped in a warm embrace of tortilla.
The French House
–Media from henrylittlechilddirector
Location: 49 Dean St, London W1D 5BG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7437 2477
As Europe grappled with turmoil, this bar stood as a beacon of camaraderie and defiance. The French House became a secret sanctuary where ideas flowed freely, hidden beneath the cloak of laughter and clinking glasses.
Among the stars of their menu is “The House Martini”, a signature cocktail that encapsulates the essence of The French House. With each sip, you’re tasting more than just a drink, you’re savouring a legacy that has been lovingly passed down through generations.
Disrepute
–Media from disreputebar
Location: 4 Kingly Ct, Carnaby, London W1F 9RR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7494 2505
The décor of Disrepute is a nod to the golden age of Hollywood and the chic elegance of the 1960s. Velvet banquettes, dim lighting, and mirrored walls create an ambience that’s as enchanting as a film noir masterpiece.
This bar is located in the former home of Christine Keeler, a central figure in the infamous Profumo Affair that rocked the British establishment in the 1960s. It’s like sipping a cocktail and being a part of a living narrative where secrets and scandals intertwine with spirits and sips.
Trisha’s Club
–Media from trishas.soho
Location: 57 Greek St, London W1D 3DX, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7437 9536
This Soho stalwart has been operating for 75 illustrious years and counting, with most of them under the steadfast guidance of the incomparable Trisha, a true icon in the realm of Soho legends.
What keeps this haven alive and thriving? We suspect it’s the unwavering friendliness that permeates every corner. In a city known for its exclusivity, Trisha’s Club stands as a shining example of approachability.
It’s not just a “member’s only” club: it’s a sanctuary where strangers become friends and laughter is the universal language.
Antidote
–Media from antidotewinebar
Location: 12A Newburgh St, Carnaby, London W1F 7RR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7287 8488
While renowned for its cocktails, Antidote Bar extends a warm welcome to a diverse selection of wines.
But that’s not all – its culinary prowess shines through with fresh and delightful French-inspired meals that complement the libations. Be sure to go for the staff recommendations!
Basement Sate
–Media from basementsate
Location: 8 Broadwick St, London W1F 8HN, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7287 3412
Basement Sate is the brainchild of two friends who dared to dream beyond the ordinary. Their brainchild embodies not only their passion for exquisite flavours but also their vision of a space that welcomes all who step through its doors.
This bar is an enchanting rendezvous where beverages and desserts unite in an irresistible dance. Think of it as a harmonious partnership that’s both Bonnie and Clyde but with a cocktail shaker and a dessert fork.
Jack Solomon’s
–Media from jacksolomonssoho
Location: 41 Great Windmill St, London W1D 7NB, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3744 2266
Here’s a nugget of lore to add to your collection: Jack Solomon’s pays homage to a Soho legend – a boxing promoter whose influence reverberated through the decades.
This iconic figure orchestrated countless boxing matches, fostering young talent and building a legacy that’s ingrained in the district’s DNA. Interestingly, his original boxing gym met a fateful end during the upheavals of World War II, leading him to relocate to 41 Great Windmill Street.
What was once a haven for aspiring boxers now stands as a testament to the evolution of time and taste, inviting Londoners to embrace a different kind of ring – one where finely crafted cocktails reign supreme.
Aqua Spirit
–Media from aquanueva
Location: 5th Floor 240 Regent Street (Entrance, 30 Argyll St, London W1B 3BR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7478 0540
Aqua Spirit is a lavish oasis in the sky where cocktails are crafted with precision and every sip is an invitation to touch the clouds. Here, the art of mixology meets panoramic views, and your senses embark on a journey as breathtaking as the vistas themselves.
Each cocktail is a masterpiece in itself, a harmonious blend of flavours that dance on your palate. Take the “Soho Blossom”, for example – a floral-inspired concoction that captures the essence of the district itself.
The Pink Chihuahua
–Media from elcamion_soho
Location: 25-27 Brewer St, London W1F 0RR, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7734 7711
The Pink Chihuahua is a testament to its founder, Dick Bradsell, a legendary figure in London’s cocktail scene. Known for pioneering the espresso martini, Dick’s creativity knew no bounds. The Pink Chihuahua was his playful playground, where his legacy continues to live on.
If you come here, try the “Spicy Mezcalrita”, a concoction that’s a daring dance of smoky mezcal and a fiery kick of chilli heat.
Louche
–Media from louchesoho
Location: 5 Greek St, London W1D 4DD, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
Louche is a multi-faceted experience with three distinct spaces that offer a journey through aesthetics and ambience. And if you’re lucky enough to have a choice (when there aren’t any parties), make a beeline for the church room.
There are two-for-one house cocktails available throughout the week. And if your weekend needs a dash of indulgence, between 4 pm and 6 pm, the same offer extends to those precious days.
The Thin White Duke
–Media from thethinwhitedukelondon
Location: 22B Great Windmill St, London W1D 7LD, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7434 1840
With a selection of impressive rooms that pay homage to these two captivating destinations, choosing your space is like selecting a passport to exceptional evenings.
The wizard behind their cocktails is none other than the maestro of mixology, Dev Eames. Imagine sipping on a classic Gin Fizz while being tempted by his masterpieces: like the smoky allure of the Mezcal-based “…Away” or the apple brandy-infused delight of “Lover’s Eyes”.
Amalfi
–Media from amalfiristoranteuk
Location: 25 Argyll St, London W1F 7TU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3375 3251
Yearning for that quintessential summer vibe? Look no further than Amalfi, a splendid blend of restaurants and bars that promises to whisk you away to the sun-soaked shores of Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
From refreshing aperitifs to punchier concoctions, this is where liquid artistry takes centre stage. But if you’re in need of a recommendation to quench your summer thirst, don’t miss the Grapefruit Negroni. It’s a twist on a classic that’ll leave you longing for more.
Beasy bar
–Media from bar_soho
Location: 58 Greek St, London W1D 3DY, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7930 008464
Beasy Bar thrives on the thrill of discovery. Much like a hidden treasure, this bar beckons those who seek a touch of mystery with their cocktails.
Speaking of drinks, they are known for their “Velvet Twilight”. This cocktail is a mix of botanicals and spirits that transport you to a realm of twilight enchantment.
The Little Scarlet Door
–Media from thelittlescarletdoor
Location: 12-13 Greek St, London W1D 4DL, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 4513 2429
From Wednesday to Saturday, The Little Scarlet Door transforms into an electrifying sanctuary of beats and dancing that’s practically irresistible. DJs set the stage for an unmissable nocturnal adventure that elevates this spot to the upper echelons of Soho’s nightlife.
If you have a sweet tooth that demands satisfaction, Crimes of Passion is the elixir you’ve been yearning for. Imagine sipping on a strawberry and cream-infused Element 29 Vodka mixed with the exotic allure of Passoa and passion fruit, all topped off with a fizzy embrace.
