Bar Swift, Soho: Two-Storey Delight

Nestled on Old Compton Street, Swift Bar Soho stands as a testament to the creative collaboration between two renowned cocktail power couples: Nightjar founders Edmund Weil and Rosie Stimpson, and Milk & Honey's Mia Johansson and Bobby Hiddleston. Together, they have crafted a remarkable drinking den that captures the essence of the vibrant and utterly iconic Soho scene. With a focus on elegance, efficiency, and an impressive array of libations, Swift is no stranger to awards and when you leave, you totally get why.

The bar is thoughtfully designed, divided into two distinct areas depending on your mood. Upstairs, the ambience is lively and casual, offering a perfect swing by spot for those seeking a quick but refined drink experience. With leather booths and mirrored walls galore, the Art Déco-inspired decor sets the stage for enjoying classic cocktail favourites or indulging in Swift's expansive range of unique concoctions.

Their legendary sorbet Sgroppino and wintery Irish Coffee are to die for, and other eye catchers include the Freja featuring Grey Goose vodka, Dolin blanc vermouth, lychee, lemon, and soda. Deciding exactly what to order will probably take longer than the drink, because on top of that, the talented mixologists, including Bobby Hiddleston (known for his record-breaking cocktail-making skills) ensure that you won't be waiting long!

Heading downstairs, Swift unravels into something new; a relaxed and sensual lounge, enticing guests to settle in and savour the experience. This basement den operates daily, offering live music on weekends, boasting an extensive collection of over 300 globetrotting whiskies, and providing a more complex menu inspired by influential individuals past and present.

The latest legends themed menu pays homage to remarkable figures, from artists and performers to great thinkers. It strikes a balance between sophistication and fun, with cocktails like the deep and robust Stone St, a nod to Aisha Tyler, and the whimsical Only in L.A, an Ab-Fab inspired mix of Absolut Elyx and Martini Rubino.

Cementing its place as a prominent fixture in London's forever competitive cocktail scene, Swift continues to attract a vibrant and diverse crowd, just like their menu.  

Visit the website here.

12 Old Compton St, London, W1D 4TQ

The UK’s First Urban Winery Has Now Got Its Own Vineyard

London Cru, the UK's first urban winery, has taken a bold leap forward by acquiring Foxhole Vineyard in West Sussex, situated just a stone's throw away from the renowned Bolney Estate. If you’re not familiar with London Cru, then let us recap their story so far because they’re doing some very exciting things in the world of UK wine.

Tucked away down a SW6 alleyway is an old Victorian warehouse. Once used for gin production, Cliff Roberson eyed it up for a new lease of life in 2013 and despite being in central London, it was to become the UK’s first urban winery. But that’s not the only thing making London Cru stand out…

With a focus on crafting top-quality still wines, London Cru sets itself apart from the rest of the UK's winemakers. While vineyards are sprouting up across the country and producing incredible fizz, few have this same unwavering dedication to still wines.

Whilst they have been using European grapes from the likes of Languedoc-Roussillon and Piedmont, this acquisition of Foxhole Vineyard lays down an ambitious marker as they aim to trail-blaze the quality and variety of still wines being produced in the UK – we love to see it!

Located less than 50 miles away from their urban winery, Foxhole Vineyard perfectly aligns with London Cru's innovative spirit. The vineyard boasts 20,000 vines, predominantly Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, accompanied by a small pocket of Bacchus. This idyllic vineyard, with its south-facing hillside offering stunning views of the South Downs, is a testament to London Cru's commitment to the mission.

By controlling every stage of production from grape to glass, London Cru and Head Winemaker Alex Hurley aims to create a homegrown and unique British winemaking experience to replicate English Sparkling Wine’s newfound place on the international stage.  Very exciting times indeed!

Heliot Steak House: A Cut Above

The grand Hippodrome Casino on Leicester Square opened in 1900 as a circus theatre, playing host to legends like Judy Garland, Charlie Chapman and a certain Clara Heliot, a lion tamer whose namesake restaurant now occupies the first floor – The Heliot Steak House.

Carving out its own spot in London legend, this premium restaurant and late-night bar overlooks sweeping views of the buzzing casino floor. With chandeliers dazzling and roulette wheels spinning amongst the lavish décor, the luxury Vegas casino vibe is well and truly pulled off, with a sophisticated touch of 1930s elegance thrown in for good measure. It’s pretty unforgettable, and that’s before the culinary experience has even begun.

Let's talk about the star of the show—the steak. Heliot Steak House specializes in award-winning USDA prime grade steaks sourced globally, including cuts from Nebraska, Argentina, Great Britain, and Japan. These exceptional cuts of Fillet, Sirloin, Rib Eye and Rib on the Bone undergo a meticulous aging process of four to six weeks before bespoke seasoning and cooking, resulting in incredible tenderness and flavour for every diner. Amongst tough competition, The Heliot was voted the Best Steak House in London, as well as the Best Casino Restaurant and other top gongs.

But the culinary adventure doesn't stop there. Executive Chef and expert Meatologist Ioannis Grammenos infuses his Greek heritage into the menu, offering delectable starters like Grilled Octopus with Roast Baby Potatoes & Tarama and Meatballs with Mushroom Sauce & Parmesan. Don’t fancy steak for main course? How about New Zealand Lumina Lamb Rack with Pitta & Raita, or Roast Chicken & Grilled Sweet Potato with Yoghurt Sauce? Make sure to save room for a diverse dessert menu too, with the likes of the Bougasta Custard Cream Pie and the renowned Chocolate Tree to pick from. This is just a taste of an extensive menu that is refreshed every few months, not to mention the weekly specials that make the task of ordering an even tougher one, but that’s not a bad problem to have, right?

For the perfect pairings for all of this, enter Salvatore Russo, General Manager and Head of Wine. With over 60 globally sourced bottles of red wine, including an impressive selection available by the glass, you'll be sure to find the ideal complement to your steak. With White, Rosé, Champagne and Sparkling too… there really is a stunning bottle for everything.

And if wine isn't your preference, fear not because you can always consult the wide-ranging drinks menu featuring spirits, beers, ciders, soft drinks, as well as the most exciting choice for us… an array of tantalizing cocktails, such as the Helicolada and the Take Me Down.

Together, Ioannis, Salvatore and their attentive team have combined their passion and expertise, married it with the glamorous surroundings to solidify Heliot Steak House's status as a West-End icon. Let the show go on!

Find the Heliot Steak House’s website here.

The Hippodrome Casino,
Cranbourn Street, Leicester Square, WC2H 7JH London, United Kingdom

The American Bar: One of a Kind

The American Bar is the oldest cocktail bar in London, one of the most renowned in the entire world, and has hosted some of the most famous bartenders to ever pick up a cocktail shaker. Lofty headlines indeed, so what is it that makes London’s most iconic bar just that?

Well, it doesn’t do any harm to be at the most famous hotel in London, The Savoy. But there’s a lot more to the American Bar than that. It first opened in the 1890s, becoming one of the first establishments to embrace American-style cocktails to not just Britain, but Europe. The kind of places offering these drinks in this style became known as ‘American Bars’, and The American Bar is fully deserving of being the definitive one.

It’s difficult for all of that history not to hit guests when they first step foot into the grand piano shaped room, a picture of elegance. Some of the most legendary bartenders have ruled the roost here. Frank Wells in 1893, Harry Craddock and his Savoy Cocktail Book in the 1930s, Joe Gilmore in the swinging 60s, Peter Dorelli from a staggering 1985 to 2003, right up to Shannon Tebay at the helm today, not to mention the countless iconic faces from Winston Churchill to Ernest Hemingway that have been served here.

Even after the £220m hotel facelift, The American Bar remains pretty much untouched. The timelessly warm and charming art deco décor greets drinkers, with bright gold and striking blue chairs sitting beautifully against cream ochre walls. The focal point is the renowned piano player, whose American jazz fills the room creating an unforgettable atmosphere, and there’s even the Savoy Songbook to match a cocktail to each song.

With cocktails upwards of £20 and some many times more, this isn’t a regular drinks den for most of us, but as a plush pilgrimage, there’s not much better. Whether the stunning cocktails, the beautiful piano, over a century of conversation or the bartenders and guests of past and present, it is these echoes of a bygone era that make The American Bar so special, except when you’re sat on those gold seats, it feels very much in the moment.

Unless you’re lucky enough to be staying at The Savoy, The American Bar has a walk-in policy but if you can visit their website here.

Bandra Bhai

London has an abundance of speakeasies. Yes there are a lot of great ones, but most seem to follow a similar style. If you are looking for a great speakeasy with a twist, then head to Fitzrovia - Bandra Bhai is the place to visit. This speakeasy is located beneath its sister restaurant - Pahli Hill. If you are able to get there early, it will be nice and quiet, but it definitely livens up later in the evening.

The bar is a tribute to the Indian smuggler’s dens in the 1970s, and has beautiful decor that fits the theme to a T. In the past these dens were often fronts, claiming to be photography studios or even sexologists. There are even some original signs as you come down the stairs for a sexologist clinic - all adding to the authenticity. 

The cocktail menu has just been updated and does not disappoint. Drinks are named simply after the main ingredient (such as date, mango, or pistachio) and are stunning interpretations of classic sips. One of our favourites was the date cocktail, mixing whiskey and dates and served almost theatrically covered with smoke. This drink is smooth and savoury - a perfect combo in our eyes.

A crowd (and bartender) favourite is the Mango. The drink is a blend of Desi Daru Mango vodka, lime, mango and yoghurt. Don’t stress, you won’t be given a drink with clumps of yoghurt. The yoghurt is clarified so that the liquid used in the cocktail is clear and creamy. This drink is delightful, the sweetness balanced by the creaminess. It almost reminds us of a scoop of mango sorbet. It is simply that good.

If you are peckish, then there are loads of traditional Indian snacks to choose from. The small plates are very generous, and one could easily fill up on them quickly. If you are not in the mood for a cocktail, then there is also an extensive wine list, as well as spirits to choose from.

Bandra Bhai is great for a date night, or celebratory drinks

Ambience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value:⭐⭐⭐⭐
Range:⭐⭐⭐⭐
Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall: 8/10

Address: 79-81 Mortimer St, London W1W 7SJ

Is it Paris? Is it New Orleans? No, it’s Louie London

The more you delve into Louie London, the more the expectation dials are ramped up, and frankly, the more it lives up to them.

Sitting among the Mousetrap and The Ivy among others, the Covent Garden site is a joint venture between Guillaume Glipa and Laurent de Gourcuff’s famed French restaurant group Paris Society. Sprawling foliage contrasts art-deco furnishings and glitter in a way that, if done badly, could result in travesty (if that’s not too strong a word). Instead, it’s pure alchemy.

The plan from the start was to evoke this varied global feel. More specifically, a culinary and décor blend of Paris, London, and New Orleans. As Louie puts it themselves, ‘American heart, a French palate, and a New Orleans soul’. Working from the beautiful base that is an already impressive Georgian town house, every floor is distinct and carefully curated. Topping the building is the magical Alligator Bar, an open lounge and 80-seat bar hosting live jazz piano and DJ sets that have become extremely sought after events, with guests spilling out onto the terrace gazing over the flickering lights of London. Trademark New Orleans cocktails, your Sazerac for example, are served here. Madame Laveau, Rockefeller Martini and Alligator Boogaloo are among the other eclectic options, with a sommelier on hand if you’d rather head wine-wards.

This gastronomic gem serves up incredible Atlantic-straddling dishes with primarily French fayre and Louisiana twists such as crab cake platters with squid ink tarma sauce, fresh oysters, French curried monkfish with port wine jus, and the signature pecan tart, reimagined with spice, white chocolate ganache and caramel. Guests can graze on little plates or indulge in the mains section and grill, being seated across the sophisticated ground and first floors.

It will come as no surprise that a night at Louie London is at lavish expense, but if you leave as chuffed as the portly alligator on the logo, and you will, then you’ll have no regrets.

Words by Aidy Smith

The M Restaurant Canary Wharf

With two restaurants in Threadneedle Street and Victoria Street, M Canary Wharf is the newest gastro playground of the mysteriously named, ‘M’. The jewel in the crown of the waterside Newfoundland Quay tower, this particular space is Provençal-inspired and includes private dining rooms, an exclusive members club and a cocktail bar.

Though it is impeccably designed, the distinct point of interest comes from the sourcing of its ingredients. Vegans are growing in numbers, and many of us will have at least explored the idea or at the very least, the impact of the food we eat and where it comes from.

M Restaurant is for those who love meat too much to experiment with Veganism or Vegetarianism, but still want to eat sustainably. You’ve heard of Craft Beer, but this is Craft Beef, spotlighting regenerative farming and providing carbon-neutral British beef to diners. Partnering with The Ethical Butcher and farmer Neil Harley, M delivers a ‘conscious dining’ experience that uses ethically sourced ingredients for more of a ‘Regenuary’ than ‘Veganuary’.

Neil Harley was the first ever farmer to have a certified regenerative farm, and the Ethical Butcher is a leading light in the craft meat revolution world using the practices of farmers like Neil.  These are farms that don’t just produce but look to actively improve the land by using their animals to restore nutrition to the soil, rebuild ecosystems and if done effectively, more carbon can be locked away than the animals’ release themselves.

To promote this food industry frontier, M is offering a set lunch in February priced at £25 for two courses, and £30 for three, featuring rum steak as the main event using cattle that roam for up to 30 months which is almost twice the lifespan of standard UK cattle. They’re also 100% pasture fed which benefits biodiversity and plant growth. The Provençal specials include burrata de grasse with confit tomatoes, tomato gel, lavender, and perfume of Provence, as well as the intriguing duck & watermelon.

This style of regenerative agriculture is ideal for meat eaters that wish to continue whilst making an increased effort to eat more sustainable, healthier, and tastier meat. Although steak and particularly wagyu cuts take the limelight, sustainable efforts can be found across the wider menu. M works with Crate to Plate to produce vegetables that use nutrient-rich soil and much less water. Lastly and most surprisingly considering it’s London, the chefs can even collect their fresh produce on foot because Crate to Plate are only around the corner.

If you want to hear more about the work M Canary Wharf is doing, or delve into their mouth-watering menu visit their website here.

Words by Aidy Smith

LPM Restaurant and Bar

LPM is already notorious for its lovely French and Mediterranean cuisine. Now with their new cocktail menu inspired by Jean Cocteau, there is even more reason to book a table at this iconic spot. 

The cocktail menu is beautifully presented in a red cover and tells the story of the French poet. There are four “chapters” in this story,  each exhibiting a  different style of cocktail to choose from - mainly aperitifs, fruity cocktails, savoury cocktails, and dessert drinks. Each drink also has a story to it, and one could sit in silence and read this menu for their entire stay at LPM! 

Our eyes were immediately drawn to the Lettre à Coco. This cocktail is an homage to Jean’s friendship with the legendary Coco Chanel, using the classic Chanel No. 5 as inspiration. The delicate Champagne based cocktail also uses jasmine, bergamot and rose to add some beautiful floral notes. The presentation is also exquisite, the crystal coupe glass being delivered with a love letter sprayed with Chanel No. 5 to make you feel like Chanel herself.

For dessert, the Hommage cocktail works a treat - with cognac and cherry brandy. The cocktail is garnished with a gold dusted cherry for the perfect display. 

As you can see, the cocktail menu is truly a masterpiece, and combined with lovely food and spectacular service, there is no reason to put off visiting LPM. The staff are warm and welcoming, and the barmen know the cocktail menu inside-and-out and are able to give you the perfect recommendation based on your food choice and your usual go-to drink. 

Life is too short for mediocre cocktails. Do yourself and your tastebuds a favour and go give this experience a try.

LPM is great for a special occasion with someone special.

Ambience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Value:⭐⭐⭐⭐
Range:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall: 10/10

Address: 53-54 Brook's Mews, London W1K 4EG