Best Bars in East London

The Alchemist in Shoreditch is where theatrical cocktails meet industrial-chic vibes, creating an unforgettable drinking and dining experience. Nestled in one of London's most creative districts, this sleek venue is a haven for those who crave a touch of magic with their night out.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by an atmospheric blend of moody lighting, metallic accents, and an alchemy-inspired aesthetic that feels both edgy and enchanting. The bar's mixologists are true artisans, crafting molecular cocktails that fizz, smoke, and sparkle, turning every drink into a mini spectacle.

Housed in a former bank by Spitalfields Market, The Bar Downstairs shakes up some of East London's coolest cocktails. Created by the team behind Blixen and Three Sheets, this basement treasure trove is a haven for those after curious sips and achingly stylish interiors.

A classy place to drink around East London, Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is an impressive rooftop bar. Take your pick from a vast selection of Champagne, spirits and cocktails before taking in the jaw-dropping panoramic views from this heated terrace on the 10th floor.

Not only does Nightjar concoct some of the most theatrical cocktails around, but they're also one of the best speakeasies in London. Grab a table in the glamorous setting and enjoy a memorable evening of unique libations made using ingredients such as savoury sand and banana bread beer. 

Dovetail Bar is where Clapton's contemporary scene meets a touch of nostalgia. With its chic but comfortable atmosphere, it's the ideal destination for a night out with friends or a casual date night.

Expect expertly crafted cocktails, a wide selection of spirits, and a warm environment that makes every visit feel like home. We've got our eyes on the espresso martini for £11, made with salted espresso, and the spritzes that are available for £8 before 7pm, every day.

Trapeze is a popular choice for nights out in Shoreditch, with quirky decor and popping tunes to keep you dancing till the early hours. On the ground floor, you'll find a creative cocktail list and impressive circus performances, while downstairs you'll encounter some of the finest DJs every weekend.

Join Moonshine Saloon for an evening of liquor smuggling and cocktail swigging at their immersive Liverpool Street bar. Set in the Wild West, the experience will see you donning cowboy hats and meeting shady characters.

Looking for a little entertainment on your next night out? Then head to Draughts in Hackney, or their sister venue in Waterloo. There are hundreds of cracking board games to choose from here, as well as a shuffleboard table in the Dalston location. Expect multiple different cosy spaces to relax in, including a sunny beer garden, where you can also sip on two for £18 cocktails. Even better? There are scrumptious eats like pulled pork tacos, Beyond Meat cheeseburgers and pizza loaded waffle fries up for grabs too.

If you're a rum lover, you're in for a treat. Bringing tropical vibes and jaw-dropping views to the heart of Shoreditch, Pineapple Xpress is a colourful Caribbean haven perfect for your next mate date. Make your way to this lush joint's top floor as the sun sets to sip on expertly crafted demon-water cocktails like the fruity Magnum Punch, the refreshing Lucky Luch and their signature Rum Punch.

Looking for the best places to drink in East London? Head to Shoreditch where you'll find Hijingo, a wacky and wonderful bar and bingo club. Tokyo Nights-inspired, this spot will wow you with its impressive video, music, lights and sound offerings.

Situated in Walthamstow, Renegade Urban Winery is a relaxed and welcoming bar that features casual outdoor space, a mezzanine for dining and tours of the winery below. Enjoy some of the best local vino as you look out over the wetlands, wile munching seasonal eats and charcuterie boards.

If you're looking for somewhere to drink with a great view, then check out Riverside East in Stratford, situated inside the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This two-storey venue features a bright, colourful restaurant and bar, as well as a rooftop terrace upstairs.

Look out over the Thames while sipping cocktails, and be sure to sample their food menus too. These change seasonally, using sustainable ingredients to create everything from Buffalo chicken wings to dirty garlic bread.

Situated between Stepney and Bethnal Green, 135 Bar & Lounge is a sleek, speakeasy-inspired lounge bar. Styled like its the 1930s, this sultry space promises plush seating, low lighting, vintage furniture and Art Deco interiors - taking you back to the golden age of cocktails.

They use all kinds of premium spirits, liqueurs and fresh ingredients to create their concoctions, with top wines and beers available too. Plus, you can catch live music and resident DJs every weekend - think jazz, blues, disco and soul.

This East London bar is dedicated to Hollywood legend Steve McQueen and packs three rather impressive punches - a restaurant, bar and club. That is not all. Q Shoreditch is also the home of live music and popular comedy nights.

Undoubtedly one of the best bars in East London, Callooh Callay is an experimental cocktail haunt. Boasting renowned signature tipples, a great atmosphere and a gorgeous secret room, this beauty is perfect for a date night.

Searching for delightful places to drink in East London? Head to PIVO for pints of beer from small breweries in Prague as well as traditional Czech dishes if you get a bit peckish - we mean meatball gratins and confit duck legs.

Fancy an evening with sky-high sips? Head to Dalston Roofpark for a fabulous rooftop bar, complete with cocktails and food from BEER + BURGER. If that wasn't enough, you can check out their wonderful events, which range from bottomless brunches to DJ sets.

Can't decide what to eat? Head to one of the best restaurants in Canary Wharf and get ready to chow down on scrumptious sushi, tacos, fried chicken and dumplings while also leaving room for a few drinks at its two fully-stocked bars on-site.

Start your evening with a professionally mixed imbibe here, before dancing your way through the night. Loves Company is definitely no shrinking violet, with weird and wonderful decorations and excellent music that's anything but tame.

Discover The Solo Bistro & Cocktail Bar, a hidden gem tucked just moments away from the vibrant neighbourhood of Bethnal Green. Take a seat in this lively sanctuary and indulge in a diverse selection of wines, craft beers, and classic cocktails, including espresso martinis, cosmopolitans and pina coladas.

Charming drinkers with giant maypoles, wicker masks and brass icons galore, Hand Of Glory is serving up something a little different. Plonk yourself at a table and prepare for a feast; there's a rotating menu of culinary delights and plenty of ciders, craft beers and home-infused gins.

Drawing inspiration from the best house parties, The Cocktail Club Old Street venue has an eclectic mix of decor - from a disco kitchen to a bedroom snug for sipping cocktails in an intimate space and even a games room complete with table football. Topping it off? An expansive open-plan dancefloor and the signature list of cocktails (a bartender's paradise that reflects over 15 years of the brand's expertise in theatrical, house and luxury drinks).

Showcasing brilliant quiz nights and a beaut beer garden, Hackney Church Brew Co is a great shout. The venue flaunts a list of 6 classic brews, alongside scrumptious Indian food from Masterchef star, Aaron Thomas - think goat curry and tikka masala.

This Walthamstow taproom is serving up some of the best craft beer in East London. Exale pride themselves on producing nothing but quality pints, and you can find 10 taps of the stuff at their wetlands-adjacent HQ, alongside cocktails, DJs and live tasting events throughout the year.

Fancy an evening of delicious tipples? Situated in London Fields, Bar 161 is a supreme spot for cocktails - think blood orange margaritas, espresso martinis and classic negronis. Plus the venue provides an intimate ambience - fab for first dates.

When it comes to rooftop bars in East London, Pergola on The Wharf is one of our favourites. Make your way through the idyllic gardens above Crossrail Place to uncover the gorgeous venue, where Friday DJ nights, bottomless brunches and cocktails await.

Found just a stone's throw from Regent's Canal, Signature Brew Haggerston is a top-notch taproom and live music venue that knows how to host a great night out. They've welcomed bands and artists like Mastodon, Alt-J, Mogwai and Frank Turner in the past, with regular quizzes and comedy performances taking place here too. They brew their very own pilsners, IPAs and more on site, which can be enjoyed in their exposed brick interiors or outdoors in their spacious beer garden.

Located on East London's Commercial Street, Yuu Kitchen is a trendy stop-off for Japanese and Taiwanese-inspired treats. Head inside, where you'll be met with vibrant interiors, alongside a lip-smacking selection of sips. Our choice? A Ginger Ninga made from sake and beer.

Nestled at the top of Hackney Road, the Looking Glass Cocktail Club is a secret watering hole boasting vintage decor, Victorian opulence and expertly mixed libations. Step behind an actual mirror for regularly changing tipples and an evening you won't forget.

A fun pop-up bar in East London, Brick Lane Tap Room is one of the best places to find yourself this summer. Rock up to their Spitalfields haunt and you'll find craft pints aplenty and a menu of delicious New York-inspired eats.

When it comes to the best bars in Stratford, Jim & Tonic at The Print House really is up there. Not only does it boast slick, contemporary interiors and a canalside terrace, but also an in-house gin distillery. Head over for elevated G&Ts, craft beers and affordable cocktails.

Situated within the best-loved East London digs, Nobu Bar & Terrace at Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch is the ideal stop-off for those of you seeking a top-notch East boozer. Grab your pals to make your way inside, where you'll be met with walls covered in wacky street art, alongside plenty of Asian food and drink.

A rustic-looking venue in Hackney, The London Fields has turned a historic Victorian building into a bustling cocktail bar and restaurant. Expect dark wooden furnishings and long bench tables in this cool space.

They serve authentic Italian eats, including handmade wood-fired pizzas and freshly crafted pasta. There's a whole lot to choose from behind the bar as well, and they specialise in gin cocktails.

Going from bright and colourful art-clad walls to broody low-lit nooks, Dream Bags Jaguar Shoes has a regularly changing interior. Cool decor is paired with unusual serves, seasonal cocktails and a buzzy atmosphere that only intensifies come the weekend when the party moves downstairs.

For a truly unique cocktail experience, The Natural Philosopher stands out from the crowd. This Hackney hideaway, run by award-winning bartender Josh Powell, has been crafting innovative, nature-inspired cocktails since 2019.

Using foraged ingredients and a monthly changing menu, the bar guarantees a new adventure with every visit. The setting? A cosy, plant-filled Victorian lounge, hidden behind an unassuming Mac Repair shop. Whether you're after a quirky date night, a chilled happy hour (6pm 'til 8pm, two for £16), or a private event space, this East London gem delivers charm, creativity, and serious cocktail craftsmanship.

Fun East London bars? Barrio has got to be one of the most entertaining party spots and a brilliant place to let your hair down whilst enjoying delicious cocktails. With South American-themed drinks and colourful furnishings, this hangout's a strong shout for an after-work drink or two.  

When it comes to cheap drinks in East London, you can't beat Simmons. The kitsch Liverpool Street boozer has award-winning happy hours that'll have you sipping on £2.50 G&Ts and bottles of beer everyday, except Saturday. Not in the area? Check out the Shoreditch location.

26 Curtain Road is one of the best bars in Shoreditch, promising you the chance to delve into rotating craft beers, wine and premium spirits across a cool yet cosy space. Plus, you can expect vinyl only for music and late-night opening on weekends.

Get on down to MMy Wood Wharf to enjoy a fabulous selection of tasty tipples by the river. What's up for grabs? Heady, sustainable cocktails and lip-smacking craft beers, which you can enjoy alongside a diverse range of street food.

The 1 Bar is a cool cocktail bar balancing vibrancy and cosiness from its City of London location near Liverpool Street. Home to live music and everything from fine wine to beers, it's still the venue's cocktails that shine - including The Encore (an orange marmalade-flavoured tequila mix) and the Spotlight Solace (featuring Teeling whiskey, pineapple, mango and bitters).

At No90, the music is just as much a part of the experience as the food and drinks. Whether it's live bands, DJ sets, themed parties, or eclectic events like bingo nights and film screenings, this venue is always buzzing with energy.

The three spaces - No90 Bar, No90 Hideout, and No90 Live - are each fitted with state-of-the-art sound systems, meaning every performance hits just right. If you're looking for a spot where the music, the people, and the atmosphere are always on point, No90 is your go-to for unforgettable nights in Hackney Wick.

This urban oasis is easily one of the best places to drink in East London, offering a heated and covered garden that also happens to welcome pets. When it comes to entertainment? Expect sports fixtures on the big screen, rounds of pool and live DJs when the weekend rolls around.

The Shoreditch is on the front line of East London's bustling entertainment and cultural scene. Based across two floors, the lounge bar transforms into a full-frontal party as the night goes on, complete with disco bangers and dance hits.

Sip N Tell Bar is a vibrant watering hole, nestled in the heart of Old Street. Here, guests are invited to indulge in eclectic quenchers that artfully meld the conventional with the extraordinary. Emanating an ambience reminiscent of a tropical haven, the bar serves innovative libations that redefine the boundaries of traditional mixology, featuring cocktails like Velvet Punch and Exotic Clear Colada.

Located smack bang in the middle of Shoreditch's social hub and the streets of Bethnal Green, The Cocktail Club is your go-to for a unique sip. Choose between quirky creations like rose petal martinis and jam jar daiquiris before sitting back and taking in the sultry environment until the party starts.

Swift Shoreditch is a popular cocktail bar located on Great Eastern Street sporting pretty European interiors and banquette seating. Open until midnight towards the end of the week, it's the perfect spot in town for a bespoke tipple or date night. Enjoy a signature rhubarb and custard tipple or its own Irish coffee, or venture into the extensive wine and beer lists.

When it comes to East London joints, Colours Hoxton is a top choice. Whether you're popping in for £5 cocktails from 5pm to 9pm between Wednesday and Friday or, heading to one of the bottomless brunches and live music gigs, this impressive venue is sure to hit the spot.

Make your way to Shoreditch to discover Rain Dogs, a cool neighbourhood bar that's filled with comfy leather seating and dark green decor. Expect top quality service, as well as live music on a regular basis.

The drinks selection here is second to none, with a wide variety of craft beers and cocktails to choose from - don't miss out on their signature spicy margarita.

From Waterloo to Shoreditch, Tonight Josephine is painting the town pink. You'll find Insta-worthy interiors, pretty cocktails and a high octane vibe to take you from after-work drinks to midnight antics at the weekend.

When it comes to wine bars in East London, Hackney Coterie has to be right up there for their vast choice, cool setting and range of small plates or meals to match. Expect to munch your way through pork shoulder croquettes, bavette steaks and BBQ cauliflower while swilling down your new favourite bottle.

Pretty Decent Victoria Park Taproom is the newest venue from Pretty Decent Beer Co, the East-London based brewery that's whipping up all sorts of lagers, stouts, sours and pale ales. They've got 12 different Czech side-pour taps to choose from, and they even offer £4 pints on Thursdays to showcase their new creations.

For those of you who don't like beer, they've also got low-intervention wines, cocktails, and even slushies. Relax in the cosy front bar, or head to the back for a lively beer hall - complete with long communal tables, foosball, retro arcade games and more.

Situated on Macclesfield Road in Shoreditch, NHow London is an East gem that's sure to impress. Venture inside the quirky venue, where you'll be able to enjoy lip-smackin' bevvies, followed by some mouthwatering plates of British and Italian-inspired grub.

As well as being famed for its live music programme that stretches back three decades, this Dalston boozer also pours up delicious cocktails, local craft beer and global wines. The Victoria's kitchen hosts pop-up chefs so there's always something fresh and exciting to keep hunger at bay.

Dodici Pizze & The Black Horse is a trendy neighbourhood bar in Walthamstow, fronting sleek, modern interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows and lots of luscious greenery. The tiled bar is whipping up everything from local craft beer to seasonal cocktails, and if you visit between 6 and 7pm you can enjoy two cocktails for £10.

There's a delicious Italian menu to choose from as well, specialising in artisan pizzas. Tuck into cheesy slices topped with truffle oil, spicy nduja or anchovies, paired with a fresh burrata salad.

Apples and Pears is a cocktail bar in East London that merges relaxed evenings with raucous club nights. Along with various live music performances during the week, the hangout also plays a range of funk, soul and old school hip hop songs.

One of the best bars in East London, this unique offering in the heart of The City promises is a slap-up selection of craft beers and fine wines, alongside tasty pub grub and a large, heated beer garden.

Situated a hop, skip and a jump away from Monument, Dirty Martini is a subterranean cocktail bar oozing style. Come after work when there's some great drinks deals to snap up, pop in later to get the night started with some tipples or stay till close bopping to top hits.

With a sophisticated interior and two beautiful outdoor spaces, Devonshire Terrace is one of the best places to drink in East London. The wine menu is the main attraction with a huge selection to choose from, whilst the chic decor will make any night or day feel exclusive.

Where to drink in East London? On the corner of Hoxton Square, Gigi's is a popular choice, bringing you a winning combination of eating, drinking and dancing. A top spot for a night out with friends, this one's known for hosting big names such as Kraftwerk and Little Mix.

Make your way to East London for tasty bevvies and non-stop tunes at Lucky Voice Liverpool Street. This crackin' venue has a boatload of karaoke rooms, alongside live DJ sets. And to quench your thirst? There are lip-smacking cocktails at the bar (that can be delivered to your booth too).

Named as one of the world's best cocktail bars, Coupette is a haven for all things French. With a menu of unique libations, such as maple Americanos and Champagne pina coladas, this watering hole in Bethnal Green and Soho screams European elegance. 

Find your way to Howling Hops Tank Bar, tucked away near Queen Elizabeth Park in Hackney Wick. This friendly brewery boasts cool industrial decor and low-hanging lights, making it the ideal spot for enjoying pints.

With ten massive tanks pouring a diverse lineup of beers right from their on-site brewery, you'll want to gather your pals in the spacious beer hall or the outdoor garden. Plus, savour the flavours of Latin fusion cuisine from La Cunbia, featuring tempting dishes like fries topped with pico de gallo.

Signature Brew on Blackhorse Road is one of Walthamstow's finest bars - part of the Blackhorse Beer Mile. The industrial space also boasts an expansive outdoor area, and they host live music and resident DJs on a regular basis.

Choose from 12 lines of freshly brewed beer, or sample some local spirits and wines instead. What's more, 7 Bone Burgers are serving up juicy beef, chicken or plant-based patties, paired with wings and dirty fries.

Head over to Liverpool Street where this unique cocktail spot is fronting a massive range of quality mixes for you to enjoy. And if you're looking to get more hands-on with your drinks? They've also got a fun and phenomenal masterclass.

East London tiki bar Leyton Calling is hidden away in the archways of Leyton Midland Station. The space is decked out in a 70's tropical Americana style, with cane furniture, hanging fishing nets and woven lanterns.

The drinks menu is similarly themed, from the Dutty Banana to an Espresso Mar-Tiki, and lime marmalade and prickly pear-flavoured margarita.

Nestled somewhere between Dalston, Shoreditch and Islington is La Bibliotheque, a fine dining restaurant and one of the best bars in East London if you're looking for an innovative Japanese drink. The creative cocktail menu 'The Journey' is crafted by Melissa Frangi and includes the likes of ukiyo rice vodka-based tokinoka.

One of the best watering whole on this side of the city, East London Liquor Company not only has a cool, converted warehouse location, but also an outdoor terrace too. Better yet, the distillery bar stirs up a load of whisky and gin cocktails.

Jin Bo Law is one of Aldgate's prettiest bars, both inside and out. Located on the 14th floor of Dorsett City Hotel, the sky-high stunner has a summer-perfect roof terrace, bright and colourful interiors and an all-too-drinkable cocktail list.

Searching for haunts in Shoreditch? The Macbeth is coming in hot with delicious tipples - think espresso martinis, yuzu margaritas and ginger brambles, alongside scrumptious bar snacks. Plus, the spot boasts sleek decor, complete with leather booths and nods to Shakespeare.

Trafik is up there for places to drink and dance in London. Music is at the heart of this late-night bar, touting a turbo sound system and a line-up of DJs spinning underground hits pretty much every night of the week. 

Dalston's cool neon-lit gay bar is perfect for a night out, fun date or karaoke catch-up with friends. Balancing intimate with artsy and opening until late each weekend, Village 512 is the quirky after-party spot you've been searching for.