Elegant and flirtatious, Heliot Lounge Bar and Restaurant is a clever blend of Las Vegas style dining, drinking and entertainment. Built around the grand casino at the base we were keen to see why the Heliot has recently re-established itself as an alluring addition to London’s sophisticated nightlife scene.
The Venue
The building was originally supposed to house a circus, but could easily be mistaken for an old opera theatre with its vast and decadent ceilings. You can dine high up in the God’s of the theatre, or gamble away in the yard below with the other hopefuls. Hungry? Follow the penny dotted lane from the bar to the restaurant, which curves around above the casino and is a stunningly contemporary mix of leather-lined seating and red tones.
The Private lounge and cocktail bar are perfect for elegant get togethers and celebrations.
Food and Drinks
The cocktails here are astounding in their number, ingredients and tastes. After trying a selection I became smitten with the Bramble, a gin-based and refreshing mixture that I ended up re-ordering maybe one too many times.
The food dishes are classical, yet served in a modern and stylish manner. My starter was a delicate slither of salmon served on a slate; and I was amazed by the flavours, which were truly mouth-watering. The steak was a juicy cut that I just had to finish which sadly left no room for their indulgent offering of desserts, which all looked stunning by the way.
The restaurant is a relaxing and lavish space to enjoy your meal.
Clientele and Atmosphere
The shuffle of card decks, spinning of the roulette wheel and clatter of dice rolling is the beating heart of the Heliot. As it is located just off Leicester Square it is a melting pot of tourists, gamblers and casual drinkers. Upstairs in the Terrace Bar younger faces are drawn to the colourful lights of the pin-ball machines and mingle on the outside deck sipping cocktails and blowing out flavoured shisha smoke. Meanwhile older guests with that rare combination of money and sense head for the restaurant, where their taste buds are delivered delight after delight.
Entering the darkened Matcham Room Theatre you are immediately aware of the heightened intimacy, and sitting in the darkness it feels slightly like you’re discovering a secret show. The Boom and Bang circus came to life at 11pm, with tongue-in-cheek acts that weren’t afraid to get a little sexy or messy. Though I should warn you that any guests caught talking amongst themselves are likely to be targeted by the sharp-tongued host, Dusty Limits; it isn’t worth the red face!
Prepare to be wowed by the amazing performances at the Boom and Bang cabaret show.
Summary
Whether you want a quick flutter or an atmospheric night spent drinking and eating in style The Heliot is sure to offer a decadent night out in the West End. For a night that harks back to the glamorous evenings that London was once famous for, I highly recommend the Heliot Lounge and Restaurant Bar.
