The capital has recently witnessed a flurry of exciting openings, making it an opportune time to explore some of the finest new bars in London. From glamorous cocktail bars and trendy rooftop venues to establishments focusing on natural wine, there is no shortage of new drinking destinations to explore. Here, we've curated a list of the top London bars that debuted in 2023, offering you the perfect spots to see and be seen this season.
Forza Wine
When it comes to the finest new bars in London, Forza Wine stands out as a top contender. Building on the triumph of their establishment in Peckham, the team has recently unveiled a second location at the National Theatre, infusing its distinctive vibe into the northwest terrace of this renowned Brutalist structure. With commanding views of the South Bank and the Thames, Forza's latest venture represents its most expansive project yet, featuring a blend of banquette seating and high-top tables ideal for pre-theatre dining, post-theatre cocktails, or leisurely gatherings with friends.
Similar to their establishment in south London, patrons can anticipate an approachable selection of natural wines and a cocktail menu that changes with the seasons, showcasing creations like the cherry negroni, Limonata Bianca, and a refreshing frozen peach margarita. In terms of cuisine, their "sort of Italian" inspired snack menu offers crowd-pleasers such as cauliflower fritti with aioli, mozzarella paired with figs and hazelnuts, pancetta potato cakes with pickled cabbage, and their signature soft serve dessert.
Location:
Royal National Theatre, Upper Ground, Southbank, London SE1 9PX
Website:
nationaltheatre.org.uk
Viajante87
Although this avant-garde cocktail bar in Notting Hill initially debuted earlier in the year, September marked the introduction of an entirely new cocktail concept curated by their newly appointed Bar Director, Pietro Collina, formerly of the esteemed Eleven Madison Park. Drawing profound inspiration from the team's journeys across Latin America – 'viajante' translating to 'explorer' in Spanish – the cocktail menu is categorised into five sections, featuring an array of ingredients sourced from the continent.
Standout selections encompass the Glacier Martini, evoking the icy fjords of Patagonia with grapes and plums cultivated in the fertile region, served at a bone-chilling -20 degrees Celsius, and the Charanda Old-Fashioned, boasting hints of grass and unrefined sugar cane, culminating in a finishing touch of Amburana seed tincture procured from the Brazilian Amazon. Immerse yourself in the rhythms of Latin-inspired playlists, and be prepared to sway to the beat as the night progresses.
Location:
87 Notting Hill Gate, Notting Hill, London W11 3JZ
Website:
viajantebar.com
Little Cellars
Peckham Cellars has solidified its reputation as one of south London’s cherished neighbourhood eateries and wine bars. Now, the trio behind this Peckham gem has introduced a new wine bar concept, Little Cellars, in Camberwell. Following an extensive refurbishment, the bar offers an enticing selection of wines from both old and new world regions, available by the glass. Complementing the drinks, a menu of delectable food and bar snacks is curated by the new head chef, Ollie Lawrance, previously renowned as the head chef at London's esteemed wine bar group, Terroirs.
Characterised by its inviting ambience, the cosy wine bar exudes a classic mid-century charm, featuring clean geometric lines, dark wood panelling, and rich green paint tones. Additionally, patrons can enjoy the outdoor terrace and conveniently explore the adjacent wine shop, perfect for those seeking to acquire a special bottle to enjoy at home.
Location:
75 Camberwell Church Street, Camberwell, London SE5 8TU
Website:
littlecellars.co.uk
Dover Yard at 1 Hotel Mayfair
1 Hotel Mayfair, which debuted this summer, introduced a new era of sustainable luxury accommodations to the capital. Now, their bar, Dover Yard, is embracing this ethos, adopting a conscious approach inspired by the purity of nature. Helmed by Matteo Carretta, formerly Director of Mixology at Claridge’s, the beverage offerings celebrate local craft spirits and incorporate repurposed, seasonal ingredients sourced locally.
Nestled beside a verdant botanical courtyard, Dover Yard provides a serene setting for an evening libation. Indulge in one of the zero-waste cocktails from the menu, crafted using surplus ingredients and resources from throughout the hotel. Among our favourites is the Rookie Bramble, featuring Boatyard Double Gin, British honey, brambleberry, and lemon sour mash—a delightful concoction crafted from the residual lemon husks used in daily juicing.
Location:
3 Berkeley Street, Mayfair, London W1J 8DJ
Website:
1hotels.com
Nessa
Soho has welcomed a chic new late-night destination in the form of Nessa, an elegant watering hole nestled on Brewer Street. Crafted by Fettle, the interiors draw inspiration from Soho's vibrant history, blending elements of its colorful past with nods to the Edwardian baroque architecture of the building. Mid-century modern vintage furnishings adorn the space, enhancing the retro ambiance complemented by the bar's weekly live music sessions featuring stylish jazz performances.
Under the helm of Bar Manager Floriano Cubeddu (formerly of The Goring Hotel), Nessa offers a menu spotlighting British producers and seasonal ingredients. Playful libations include the Ol' China Plate, fusing East London rye whisky, Sacred dry vermouth, and Sipello with Campari, alongside the Randy Hiball—a modern twist on a classic British pub hangover cure—crafted with Seven Tails brandy, rosemary tonic, and port. Executive Chef Tom Cenci elevates the experience with nostalgic bar snacks, ranging from homemade BBQ crisps to cheese and onion croquettes served with mustard mayo.
Location:
86 Brewer Street, Soho, London W1F 9UB
Website:
nessasoho.com
Brooklands Bar at the Peninsula London
London has recently witnessed a wave of new luxury hotel openings, among which the Peninsula on Hyde Park Corner stands out as one of the most eagerly awaited. At the pinnacle of the hotel lies the Brooklands rooftop restaurant and bar, helmed by Claude Bosi. Offering uninterrupted vistas of London's skyline and drawing design inspiration from its namesake, the Brooklands Racetrack, the establishment adds a sleek touch to the city's luxury bar scene.
Accessible via a lift crafted to resemble a hot-air balloon, complete with a wicker-basket interior, the bar's geodetic ceiling pays homage to the work of English engineer Barnes Wallis. Meanwhile, carriage seating and leather-lined wall paneling evoke the opulence of the Rolls Royce Silver Ghost. The inventive drinks menu boasts highlights such as the Aldrin, blending the freshness of a vodka sour with orange blossom liqueur, peppermint, pine, lemon, and egg white, alongside the Disco, a tropical twist on a Negroni.
Location:
1 Grosvenor Place, Belgravia, London SW1X 7HJ
Website:
peninsula.com
Larry’s Bar at the National Portrait Gallery
As part of the National Portrait Gallery’s extensive three-year refurbishment and reopening this summer, the iconic London landmark has introduced a series of chic new dining and drinking establishments, among them the subterranean gem Larry’s. Branded as London’s most glamorous new dive bar, this underground cocktail lounge is discreetly accessed via a secret entrance on Charing Cross Road, nestled within the historic vaults of the NPG.
Originally constructed as coal storage in 1896, the exposed brick walls have undergone a sophisticated transformation, now adorned with prints sourced from the gallery’s vast archives. The ambiance is further enhanced by elegant lighting and plush booths, creating an intimate atmosphere. Live jazz performances grace the venue every night from Wednesday to Saturday, while the cocktail menu pays homage to the famous faces adorning the gallery walls, with signature concoctions such as The Hepburn and The Cecil Beaton.
Location:
St Martin’s Place, West End, London WC2H 0HE
Website:
daisygreenfood.com
Bar Rioja
Nestled in King’s Cross, this delightful wine bar stands out from the crowd by exclusively showcasing wines hailing from the renowned region of Rioja. Tucked away in a charming courtyard, the ambiance exudes a distinctly Spanish flair, with traditional floor tiles and rustic wooden wine racks adorning the walls, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in the essence of Spain.
With a diverse selection of over 40 wines sourced from Rioja’s premier zones - Alta, Alavesa, and Oriental - the bar offers a comprehensive tasting experience. Beyond the classic reds, guests can explore an array of white wines, rosados, and even traditionally-crafted sparkling wines, ensuring there's something to suit every palate.
Complementing the extensive wine list, Executive Chef Nacho del Campo draws inspiration from Logroño, the capital of Rioja, crafting a menu of pincho-style snacks reminiscent of the region’s vibrant culinary scene. From traditional tortillas to tantalizing boquerones and artichokes romesco, the seasonal menu promises a gastronomic journey through Rioja’s rich flavors.
Location:
3 Varnishers Yard, The Regent Quarter, King’s Cross, London N1 9FD
Website:
barrioja.co.uk
Bar Lina
Expanding their culinary empire beyond their renowned delis and restaurants, Lina Stores ventures into the realm of bars with the unveiling of a chic aperitivo spot nestled beneath their original delicatessen on Brewer Street. Occupying the erstwhile fresh pasta kitchen, a historic gem dating back to 1944, guests embark on a journey down a staircase discreetly concealed within the deli itself, leading them to the intimate neighborhood bar.
Stepping into the bar, patrons are enveloped in an ambiance reminiscent of the sultry Sixties, characterized by a captivating monochrome palette punctuated with rich, dark red accents - a departure from Lina Stores' iconic apple-green aesthetic.
Against a backdrop of flickering candlelight and plush velvet banquettes, the drinks menu offers innovative reinterpretations of classic cocktails. A standout offering is the Syracuse martini, featuring a Sicilian tomato twist, alongside basil gimlets and an array of Negroni variations. Curated to complement the libations, the wine list showcases Italian vintages, with a focus on independent, low-intervention growers from lesser-known regions.
To accompany the meticulously crafted drinks, guests can indulge in a selection of freshly sliced cured meats, artisanal cheeses, antipasti, and an assortment of authentic Italian bar snacks, including fried gnudi paired with Calabrian chilli marmellata.
Location:
18 Brewer Street, Soho, London W1F 0SG
Website:
barlina.co.uk
Shoreditch Arts Club
Since its inception in March, Shoreditch Arts Club has emerged as a magnet for creatives drawn to its captivating art collection and vibrant cultural events. However, it's the destination bar that has garnered equal acclaim, under the stewardship of award-winning mixologist Walter Pintus. Here, the cocktail menu mirrors the venue's eclectic ambiance, featuring innovative concoctions like the Cheeky Thyme, marrying Patron Reposado with lemon thyme, Fino sherry, verjus, and pink grapefruit soda.
In addition to these imaginative libations, patrons can explore a selection of low-intervention wines, kombuchas, and CBD-infused wellness drinks, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. True to the club's avant-garde spirit, the bar's design eschews convention, boasting a striking sculpture by Joey Holder in lieu of the traditional back bar. Composed of driftwood, a 3D printed object, and silicone sculptures, this artistic centerpiece perfectly complements the club's ethos of creativity and innovation.
Location:
6 Redchurch Street, Shoreditch, London E2 7DD
Website:
shoreditchartsclub.com
Gothic Bar
The Gothic Bar at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel in King’s Cross has been generating significant buzz as one of the year's most anticipated openings, accompanied by the debut of the Midland Grand Dining Room. Under the leadership of bar manager Jack Porter, formerly of esteemed venues like Booking Office 1869 and Library Bar at The Ned, the bar pays homage to the building's Gothic Revival style with its opulent décor, featuring frescoed ceilings, plush velvet furnishings, and marble table tops.
In line with the venue's grand ambiance, the cocktail menu revolves around the robust flavours of Eau de Vie, a clear and unaged brandy distilled from fruit. Standout selections include The Menagerie, blending asparagus Eau De Vie and Vermouth topped with soda, and the Eau de Martini, marrying X Muse (a blended barley spirit from Scotland) with a grand vermouth blend and a choice of Eau de Vie profiles spritzed on top. Complementing the cocktails is a curated selection of absinthe, resurrecting this 19th-century favorite for a contemporary audience.
Location:
Euston Road, King’s Cross, London NW1 2AR
Website:
midlandgranddiningroom.com
Noble Rot, Mayfair
Renowned wine bar Noble Rot has expanded its presence in London with a new outpost in Mayfair, joining its existing locations in Soho and Bloomsbury. Situated just off Shepherd Market, this new venue adheres to the same winning formula, offering a selection of exceptional wines paired with delectable French-inspired dishes. Highlights from the menu include warm boudin noir with pickled apricot, roast veal chop with sauce charcutiere, and strawberry clafoutis for dessert.
While the food is undoubtedly delicious, the real star of the show is the extensive wine list, which spans an impressive 41 pages. Featuring selections from England, Wales, France, and beyond, it caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. For those overwhelmed by the vast selection, the knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide recommendations tailored to individual preferences, ensuring a memorable wine-drinking experience.
Location:
5 Trebeck Street, Mayfair, London W1J 7LT
Website:
noblerot.co.uk
Lucy Wong
Located in Fitzrovia, this new nightlife destination bills itself as a "sophisticated and eccentric underground cocktail bar," offering a unique blend of potent drinks and delectable dim sum dishes. Inspired by the 1957 novel "The World of Suzie Wong" by Richard Mason, which depicts a romantic tale set in 1950s Hong Kong, the bar's ambiance and cocktail menu reflect this nostalgic theme.
The cocktail list features a variety of old classics with inventive Asian twists, such as the Cherry Blossom Manhattan, crafted with Goji-infused Maker’s Mark bourbon, Courvoisier VSOP Cognac, Mancino Sakura vermouth, cherry bitters, and goji berries.
Entertainment at this sultry subterranean venue includes live music performances on weekday evenings, featuring Soho showgirls, top pianists, and jazz artists, all contributing to the retro-inspired atmosphere. On weekends, the spotlight shifts to DJs spinning tunes until the early hours, ensuring a vibrant nightlife experience.
Address:
33 – 34 Rathbone Place, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1JN
Website:
lucywong.co.uk
Nipperkin Bar
The recent debut of 20 Berkeley has ignited excitement among London's dining enthusiasts, earning accolades from critics. Now, attention has shifted to Nipperkin, the underground bar nestled within the restaurant, which has emerged as a destination in its own regard. Reflecting 20 Berkeley's ethos, the bar exudes an English country manor house ambiance, boasting cozy nooks perfect for unwinding.
Curated by bar manager Angelos Bafas, the menu at Nipperkin celebrates the finest British produce, featuring a range of intriguing ingredients. Noteworthy creations include the 'Aged' Kelp, a blend of seaweed aged for thirty minutes, complemented by fresh Norfolk mint and roasted Kent hazelnuts. Another standout is the Black Mustard, a gimlet infused with Dorset wasabi distillate and Cotswolds apple eau de vie. Inventive and unexpected, Nipperkin offers a refreshing departure from flashy Mayfair cocktail bars, captivating patrons in the best possible manner.
Address:
20 Berkeley Street, Mayfair, London W1J 8EE
Website:
20berkeley.com
Kwant
Kwānt is likely already on your radar. Since its inception by acclaimed bar industry expert Erik Lorincz (formerly head bartender at The Savoy’s American Bar for eight years) in 2019, it swiftly secured the sixth position on the esteemed World’s Best 50 Bars list. Despite facing closure due to the pandemic, the bar has made a triumphant return following an 18-month renovation, relocating from its original Heddon Street location to Stratton Street. The revamped design is breathtaking, featuring a prominent island bar at the room's center and three individual bar stations, offering guests a chef’s table-like experience right beside the bartender.
Prepare to be captivated as you witness the creation of enticing and unconventional drinks by skilled mixologists. Take, for instance, the Gonzales, crafted with tequila, guava, makrut lime, 30/40 eau de vie, and CO2. Complementing the libations are eclectic bar bites prepared by renowned chef Joni Ketonen, whose culinary repertoire includes stints at The Fat Duck, Jason Atherton, and St John. With such offerings, it's only a matter of time before Kwānt reclaims its spot on the prestigious list.
Address:
52 Stratton Street, Mayfair, London W1J 8LN
Instagram:
@kwantmayfair
Equal Parts
If you're a devotee of Sager + Wilde, then Equal Parts is a must-visit, as it's brought to you by the same team behind the perennially popular wine bar. Initially starting as a wine and coffee shop on Hackney Road, it has now evolved into an Amaro and Aperitivo bar. Nestled within a distinctive avocado-green tiled building, Equal Parts has swiftly become a beloved neighborhood haunt since its spring debut.
Step inside to discover delightfully retro interiors, complete with an old-fashioned record player gracing the bar and shelves adorned with vinyl records. While there's no shortage of excellent cocktails on offer, from ice-cold Martinis to expertly balanced wine concoctions, the real star here is the seasonal negronis, crafted with infused Campari. Whether blended with Jerusalem artichoke or infused with strawberry and fig leaf, each creation is a reflection of the season and the bartender's creative inspiration.
Address:
245 Hackney Road, Hackney, London E2 8NA
Website:
equalpartslondon.com
Maroto
Bossa, the new Brazilian hotspot in Marylebone, has been making waves since its debut, and its underground lounge and bar, Maroto, promises to be just as enticing as Alberto Landgraf’s restaurant located upstairs. As a true late-night destination, Maroto keeps the party going until the early hours – open until 3am on Thursdays and extending its hours until 5am on Fridays and Saturdays, allowing revelers to emerge into the dawn light from its moody subterranean confines.
The interior design is a captivating blend of Art Deco elegance and authentic Brazilian charm – picture low-lit bars set against strikingly patterned wallpaper, with guests lounging on plush sofas around marble tables. The cocktail menu is a celebration of Brazilian flavors, featuring creations like the Basilao, crafted from Zeca de Mato Cachaça, apple, egg white, basil, lime, and orange, and the Oba Oba, a potent concoction of Fernet Branca, JW Black Label, Ketel One, Mezcal Amores Espadin, Cointreau, coke, and lemon.
Elevated bar snacks complement the drinks, with offerings ranging from crab pastel with açai dip to the signature pan-fried scallops with Tucupi sauce sourced from the Amazon. Above all, Maroto is a place to unwind and let loose, with a stellar lineup of DJs curated by Shane Mac, who has previously collaborated with industry heavyweights like Calvin Harris and Beyoncé, in partnership with DOC Records Brazil.
Address:
4 Vere Street, Marylebone, London W1G 0DH
Website:
maroto.london
Bar Antoine at Four Seasons Hotel at Park Lane
Pavyllon London, situated within the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel at Park Lane, marks the debut of renowned French chef Yannick Alléno's restaurant in the capital. Complementing this culinary gem is Bar Antoine, an exquisite watering hole designed to celebrate, converse, and foster connections. This bar serves as a poignant tribute to the vibrant spirit of Chef Yannick's late son, Antoine.
Bar Antoine offers a meticulously curated cocktail list, a collaborative effort between the culinary team and head mixologist Michele Lombardi, formerly of The Ritz. Expect to find reinvented classics such as the Smoky Negroni and the Pear Sidecar, alongside original creations like Chef Yannick’s signature Allenotics (a reinvented Gin & Tonic) and innovative spirit-free extractions. For an enhanced experience, Thursday evenings feature live music performances by some of London’s most sought-after jazz musicians.
Address:
Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane
Hamilton Place, Mayfair, London W1J 7DR
Website:
pavyllonlondon.com
3’6 at Fortnum & Mason
Earlier this year, the esteemed department store Fortnum & Mason unveiled its newly revamped third floor, featuring an experiential hub dedicated to food and drink. Among the highlights of this floor is the newly revamped bar, 3’6 (pronounced 'three and six'), named after the historic cost of hiring Fortnums to host a cocktail party in a guest’s home. The space exudes intimacy and homeliness, with plush velvet sofas and patterned lampshades creating a cozy atmosphere.
During the day, 3’6 serves as a haven for weary shoppers to recharge with coffee and cake. However, as evening falls, it transforms into a speakeasy-style cocktail lounge. Guests can indulge in the 'Made to Measure' section of the menu, where they have the opportunity to mix their own drinks. Alternatively, they can choose from a selection of six signature cocktails, including The Tesseract, a creative twist on the Vieux Carré, as well as a range of classic cocktails.
Adding to the ambiance, the walls of 3’6 host rotating art exhibitions, with the inaugural showcase featuring works by street photographer Allan Schaller.
Address:
181 Piccadilly, Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER
Website:
fortnumandmason.com
Paradise: After Dark
By now, you’re probably familiar with Paradise, the acclaimed Sri Lankan restaurant in Soho that has been making waves since its opening in 2019. Now, Dom Fernando is expanding into the nightlife scene by transforming the restaurant into a late-night destination every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. As the clock strikes 10pm, the lights dim, the dining tables are cleared, and all attention shifts to the central brutalist stainless steel bar.
Here, head bartender Erin Mulkerrin-English crafts unique Sri Lankan house-batched cocktails that have quickly gained a devoted following. Bursting with flavor, standout options include the Rhubarb and Rose Manhattan, featuring Regal Rogue rosé vermouth and Kimbula Kithul, and the Rambutan and Curry Leaf Daiquiri, crafted with coconut rum.
Address:
61 Rupert Street, Soho, London W1D 7PW
Website:
paradisesoho.com
The Cross
When the renowned nightclub The Cross reopened earlier this year, it created quite a stir. In mid-May, Wild, the club's standalone restaurant on the first floor, as well as its ground floor bar, were launched. The ambiance here exudes coolness, with décor to match – think exposed brick and steel, stripped-back floors, and vintage leather furniture sourced from various fashion houses in Italy.
The cocktail menu boasts a variety of signature drinks, and there's also a thoughtfully curated selection of biodynamic and low-intervention wines available. However, the real highlight is the music. As expected, the bar plays host to an ever-changing lineup of both established and emerging DJs. Next up on the lineup is award-winning British DJ and composer KosmetiQ.
Address:
2-4 Wharfdale Road, King’s Cross, London N1 9RY
Website:
thecrosslondon.com
Joyau
Located under the railway arches in Forest Gate, this delightful natural wine bar has quickly captured the hearts of locals. The team, with experience from Noble Rot, Pidgin, and Planque, brings a deep knowledge of wine, particularly those from small producers. The wine selection is diverse, ranging from easy-drinking piquettes to refined classics.
The intimate space buzzes with activity as evening falls, with friends gathering over glasses of crisp white wine and seasonal small plates at candlelit tables. The menu of nibbles is equally enticing, featuring an ever-changing selection that might include dishes like beetroot with cherries and lardo one week, followed by Cornish mackerel and peas the next.
Address:
353 Winchelsea Road, Forest Gate, London E7 0AQ
Website:
joyau.co
Lowcountry
If you're heading to Counter 71, the chef's table restaurant in Shoreditch, be sure to check out their newly opened underground bar, Lowcountry. Inspired by the American South and named after the region known for its Bourbon and Rye, it's led by mixologist Ryan Sheehan, a Savannah native. The menu focuses on American whiskey and its historical significance, with cocktails divided into three sections: 'Signature', 'Historical', and 'Classic'. Utilising surplus produce from the Counter 71 kitchen, the bar aims to minimise waste.
The 'Signature' cocktails feature intricate techniques like fat-washing, maceration, and infusions to create unique flavours. Highlights include the Hot Tomato, blending tomato water, jalapeno-infused tequila, basil oil, and salt, and the Fat-Fashioned, made with bacon-washed Bourbon, maple syrup, and creole bitters. These drinks are complemented by lowcountry-inspired snacks by Counter 71 chef Joe Laker, such as pimento cheese rarebit, shrimp and grits, and fried okra.
Address:
71 Nile Street, Shoreditch, London N1 7RD
Website:
counter71.co.uk
