Congratulations, you’ve conquered Dry January! Now it’s time to reintroduce yourself to the art of fine cocktails, lively atmospheres, and indulgent flavours. Whether you’re craving a rooftop view, a cosy speakeasy, or a lively après-ski experience, we’ve rounded up the best bars in London to celebrate your return to the world of libations. Get ready—your first sip back is going to be a good one.
- ABar Rooftop
Perched atop the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, this sleek rooftop bar offers breathtaking city views alongside expertly crafted seasonal cocktails. Think artichoke-infused Old Fashioneds and fig-laced Negronis. Expect an ambiance as elevated as your drink, with sky-blue tones and a chandelier inspired by shifting clouds.
2. Pergola on the Piste
London’s ultimate après-ski party, complete with DJs, shot-skis, and Alpine cocktails. Kick back with a Mulled Margarita or Maple Hard Cider while enjoying bottomless brunch or £5 après Margaritas on Thursdays. No lift pass required—just climb 12 steps from Brixton Market and you’re there.
3. Wildflowers
A charming Belgravia spot where Mediterranean flavours meet rustic elegance. Expect sizzling moules farcies, grilled mackerel, and cuttlefish fideuà, all paired with an impressive wine list.
4. Yasmin
A Soho rooftop oasis serving Middle Eastern bites and solid cocktails. The batata harra and mushroom skewers are standouts, but this spot is more about the stylish crowd and DJ-fuelled vibes.
5. The Spy Bar
Tucked inside the Old War Office, this moody, clandestine cocktail den honours Britain’s espionage history. Once home to MI5 and MI6 storage vaults, the space now serves up dark and mysterious drinks in a setting worthy of a secret mission.
6. The Guards Bar and Lounge
This sophisticated retreat opposite Horse Guards blends historic charm with modern mixology. Sip on one of their 16 signature drinks, including a refined take on the Singapore Sling.
raffles.com/london/dining/the-guards-bar-and-lounge
7. AMANO Covent Garden, Rooftop Bar
A Berlin-inspired rooftop with panoramic London views. The drinks? As bold as the city itself. Try the Attraction (mezcal, blood orange, honey) or Addiction (rye, date syrup, salted caramel popcorn).
8. Mosaic at The Westin London City
Still easing out of Dry January? This menu, crafted with Wild Idol, offers refreshing zero-proof cocktails paired with the hotel’s health-conscious cuisine—perfect for mindful indulgence.
9. Artesian, The Langham
This legendary bar’s Alter Ego menu turns unexpected ingredients into cocktail magic. Non-alcoholic options shine too, like the umami-packed Tomato mocktail or the sweetly nostalgic Marshmallow.
10. Bar 45, 45 Park Lane
Glamorous art deco vibes meet meticulously crafted non-alcoholic drinks, from the Everglow (basil, lime, Everleaf Mountain) to the tropical Chunky Monkey.
dorchestercollection.com/london/45-park-lane/dining/bar-45
11. Claro
Eastern Mediterranean flavours shine in this mocktail menu featuring homemade pear syrup, cherry rose lemonade, and a zingy pineapple-ginger creation.
12. Milk Beach Soho
An Aussie-inspired gem offering natural wines and innovative cocktails. Monthly ‘Toast Australia’ wine events celebrate Down Under’s finest vintages.
13. Chotto Matte Soho
A vibrant Japanese-Peruvian fusion bar where pisco sours, yuzu martinis, and tropical sake blends steal the show.
14. BAM Karaoke Box
Sing your heart out, then unwind at BAM BAM Bar with craft cocktails like the Victoreador (tequila, apricot brandy, Champagne) in a Parisian-inspired townhouse setting.
15. COYA
London’s Pisco Bar is the place for authentic Peruvian drinks. Indulge in their seasonal macerado-infused piscos alongside sea bass spring rolls and fiery ceviche.
coyarestaurant.com/london/en/piscobar
16. Viajante 87
This Latin American-inspired cocktail spot has already landed on the World’s 50 Best Bars 51-100 list—proof that their inventive drinks and electric atmosphere are worth the visit.
17. Casa Cruz
A Notting Hill favourite known for its copper-clad bar and chic clientele. Highlights include the £30 Gold Martini and zesty Mountain Fizz mocktail.
18. Alma, Soho
A subterranean haven for tequila and mezcal lovers. Think intimate lighting, bold Latin American flavours, and plenty of live music.
sucrerestaurant.com/london/alma
19. The Mirror Bar – The Landmark London
This hidden gem in a five-star hotel is all about understated luxury. Currently hosting a Courvoisier pop-up, featuring exclusive cocktails like the L’Hiver en Rose.
landmarklondon.co.uk/dining/mirror-bar
20. UBA Bar – Hart Hotel Shoreditch
A stylish lobby bar doubling as a remote-work retreat by day and cocktail hotspot by night. Try the Aka-Tokyo (whisky, sakura vermouth) or the Minto Matcha (matcha latte meets vodka and Baileys).
21. The Parlour at The Zetter Marylebone
A dark, moody escape inspired by a mischievous fictional uncle. Expect unexpected ingredients like catnip-infused vermouth and off-menu surprises.
thezetter.com/marylebone/parlour
Whether you’re diving back into boozy delights or sticking with sophisticated mocktails, these bars guarantee a stellar night out. Raise a glass—it’s time to toast to the end of Dry January!
