Hg2 are publishers of the UK’s best-selling range of upscale city guides – A Hedonist’s guide to… In their view hedonism gets a bad rap – if you can’t pursue pleasure when on a short break or when enjoying a brief respite from your hectic work schedule, when can you? They think that even a bad cup of coffee is an unforgivable waste of your time and money, so join Hg2 for a filtered selection of only the very best each city has to offer…
For old-school glamour
Claridge’s Bar, Brook Street, Mayfair W1
The elegantly art deco bar of arguably London’s top hotel really is the sine qua non of the London bar scene. Refined, sublime and reassuringly pricey, it really is the place for an expertly mixed cocktail, a glass of vintage bubbly and, perhaps, a dollop of beluga to accompany.
For unusual ales
The Jerusalem Tavern, 55 Britton Street, Clerkenwell EC1
There is a quirkiness about The Jerusalem’s plethora of nooks and crannies that is matched only by a quick scan of the beer list, all brewed at St Peter’s in Suffolk, that includes a replica of a brew that dates back around a thousand years. A wonderfully historic pub with a fascinating history that dates back (allegedly) in some form or other to the 14th century, their daily changing menu of beery cuisine is worth a look too.
For old-time tradition
The Holly Bush, 22 Holly Mount, Hampstead NW3
A hotly contended category and, in truth, there can be no one winner, but The Holly Bush, opened in 1643, is certainly a fine contender to the throne. Its cosy and homely atmosphere and traditional pub furnishings are best enjoyed from in front of the fire on a chilly winter’s day.
For a cocktail with a view
Skylon, South Bank Centre, Belvedere Road SE1
The cocktails are delicious, the food is certainly very good, but it’s the view out across the Thames that’s the real star at this new(ish) retro-glam bar located in the Royal Festival Hall.
For something reassuringly out there
Favela Chic, 91-93 Great Eastern Street, Hoxton EC2
This place, crudely styled on the favelas of Rio, is a rumble-tumble hotch-potch of bar, restaurant and club with a vibe and energy that’ll have you forgiving the commercial romanticisation of abject poverty before you can even order your second caipirinha. Be warned that service is patchy, but once the carnival atmosphere gets a grip, you’ll forgive that too.
Of course there are a million and one other bars that should and could get a mention here. Perhaps you’re after the very best rum selection (Cottons in Chalk Farm), or an artisan beer specialist (The Rake at Borough Market) or the best martini in town (Duke’s Bar at Duke’s Hotel)? Whatever your drinking, eating, snacking, partying, sleeping or even cultural needs, Hg2 London will have it covered.
Author: Hedonist Guides
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