Traveling to London and looking to explore the city? Don’t want to be part of the “tourist” crowd? Then join The VIP Pass as we head behind fridge doors, down basements and password required areas to check out 5 London secret speakeasies.
Let’s get something straight - Unlike America, the UK never experienced prohibition. Still, there's something about hidden drinking spots that no one can resist. There's a growing trend for speakeasy bars in the UK, and while some might be difficult to find, locating them is a story on its own!
If you enjoy potent cocktails and live jazz music, then Nightjar is the speakeasy for you. Nestled between a kebab and liquor shop off Old Street roundabout, look for a big wooden door and behind it you will find one of London’s best-loved bars, Nightjar.
Their quality cocktails, good service and varied live music will keep you coming back. Get enchanted by the roaring 1920’s with candlelit tables, tin cup cocktails and live swing band and jazz music.
They have a wide and interesting drink menu with sections labelled Pre-Prohibition, Prohibition and Post-War. Nightjar, however, only serves a limited food menu comprising of light bar snacks.
It is advisable to book ahead as they have a strict “if your name’s not down you’re not coming in” policy.
Where: 129 City Rd, EC1V 1JB
Website: www.barnightjar.com
In true speakeasy style, you gain entry to this bar with a request to see 'The Mayor' at the Breakfast Club bar. The entrance to the bar is through a retro Smeg fridge where you descend the stairs into a basement filled with fun, food and great drinks.
The bar is filled with vintage furniture and bizarre wall art, while the cocktail menu is brimming with bizarre and wonderful drinks that will definitely peak your curiousity. There’s also plenty of craft beer and wine.
Where: 12-16 Artillery Lane, E1 7LS
Website: www.themayorofscaredycattown.com
Created by the team behind Nightjar, Oriole takes inspiration from all around the world to create a fusion of old and new worlds with a mix of the Orient. A true speakeasy, Oriole is located in underground Farringdon in London within Smithfield Market. Its candle-lit atmosphere coupled along with displays of interesting trinkets from masks to tribal weapons makes it Instagrammable worthy.
Oriole’s cocktails are first class and like Nightjar is segmented by Old World, New World and The Orient featuring ingredients from across the globe. Weekends are usually packed and it is best to book at least a week or two in advance.
Where: Smithfield Markets, East Poultry Avenue, EC1A 9LH
Website: www.oriolebar.com
Drawing inspiration from the Ayllu community of the Inca Empire, Ayllu located underground below Smith’s Grill in Paddington is a gem of a find and you should visit before more people get wind of this place.
Ayllu’s menu is inspired by traditional Peruvian and Japanese flavours. Served on small plates, their creative menu includes croquetas de pescados with white miso paste, chives, red chillies and ginger to hamachi tiradito with green chillies, orange tobiko and daikon. The food and drinks here are meant to be shared by those at each table. Ayllu offers a Nikkei tasting menu, bottomless brunch, a wide selection of desserts and an a la carte menu.
Where: 25 Sheldon Square, London, UK
Nearest station: Paddington (H & C line) (0.1 miles)
Website: www.ayllu.co.uk
Hanging with friends and don’t know what to do for an hour? Then head on by to Rooms By The Hour located underneath Pix Pintxos in Soho.
The premise is simple: There are 5 private ‘viewing cabins’ for parties of 2 to 8 people and it’s yours for 60 minutes. Fashioned after the nostalgia of the 1970’s sex cinema, it is all above board. Book a room for a quick drink before dinner or theatre for a fun time and it is nowhere near as nasty as it sounds.
Where: Pix Bar, 16 Bateman Street, Soho, London W1D 3AH
Website: pix-bar.com
Looking to plan a trip to London for a staycation or to visit friends or family? Take a trip with them and explore London. Why go to the normal places you always go to when you can try out new places and create memorable experiences?
With The VIP Pass, you get to travel and stay in luxury hotels for a single price. That means more money to spend on food, gifts for family and friends, and most importantly, on yourself. To know more about The VIP Pass, head on to https://getvippass.com