Dandelyan
Mondrian London, 20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PD
Ohhhhh, my gosh. Dandelyan really is the bar that needs no introduction, with a whole host of impressive accolades under its belt including World’s Best Bar 2017 and World’s Best Cocktail Menu 2016. It’s the brainchild of iconic bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana (a.k.a. Mr Lyan) so the glittering awards come as no surprise.
Dandelyan basks in sumptuous pink-and-green Art Deco splendour on the ground floor level of the Mondrian hotel, which affords spectacular views across the river – oh, hello St. Paul’s! Once the menu arrives, however, even this most glorious of views struggles to hold your attention. Entitled ‘The Modern Life of Plants’, the latest drinks list explores the science of plant and animal life in the most delectable of ways.
Think Martell Cognac filtered through concrete (delicious, I promise), paper fibre and even something called ‘beta acid goodness’. Think innovation and inspiration. Think stunningly simple finished drinks, no bells and whistles but pure, unadulterated taste sensations. We’re gushing, of course, but this is one bar that truly deserves all the recognition it receives. Just go. You won’t be disappointed.
www.dandelyanbar.com
020 3747 1063
Nightjar
129 City Road, Hoxton, EC1V 1JB
Another name that’s a regular fixture on shortlists of the World’s Best Bars is the dark and delicious basement venue that is Nightjar. Hidden quietly between a pizzeria and a fried chicken shop (which we can safely say is also extremely good … or seemed so at midnight on a Saturday!) Nightjar is one of Hoxton’s worst-kept secrets – and with very, very good reason.
Intimate and dimly-lit, this inviting 1920s-style speakeasy is designed with discerning drinks enthusiasts in mind … and certainly doesn’t disappoint. The danger with some chart-topping venues is that great tasting drinks are at risk of being sacrificed in the pursuit of a bit of theatre, but Nightjar delivers on all counts in the most impressive of ways.
The latest menu is divided into four sections covering the exotic history of the glorious cocktail, as well as sharing drinks and a selection of delicious tapas on offer should hunger strike. The concoctions are unbelievably creative, with everything from seaweed air to electric bitters making an appearance alongside our favourite spirits. We love the Filipino, a blend of Bathtub Gin, snake fruit, kalamansi liqueur and coconut smoke. Add to this mix a dash of excellent customer service, blend with live jazz every night of the week and you’ve got yourself a winning recipe.
0207 253 4101
