Retro Bars In London

We love discovering new retro bars in London, where the traditional British drinking experience is transformed into a magical pursuit of decadent entertainment and creative drink combinations, set in an atmospheric setting reminiscent of bygone eras. For those of you keen to experience these unique venues for yourself, we have come up with a list of the best retro bars in London for you to explore.

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 19th March 2025



Molly's

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Tucked away just moments from Hoxton Overground, Molly's is the kind of spot where brunch effortlessly blends into dinner, and your morning coffee naturally evolves into an espresso martini.

Once a Victorian pub, this East London gem combines historic charm with a laid-back, welcoming vibe. Bright and airy in summer, warm and intimate in winter, it's a local favourite for catch-ups over cocktails, romantic first dates, and even a post-walk pint with your pup. 

Rouges

Rouges doffs its cap to the 70s and 80s, celebrating all the things we loved about those iconic decades, with DJs playing the best funk and soul tracks long into the early hours. If that wasn't enough, be sure to visit one of the two bars in this venue, both of which are over 50 years old.

Nikki's

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Happy Hour 2025

Nikki's is a little retro gem, found in the heart of Shoreditch and radiating plenty of sass. It plays the role of the girlfriend your mother warned you about but in bar form, open until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays and playing non-stop hits. It's well-known for its 00s-themed bottomless brunches, as well as a signature cocktail list featuring all things spicy and refreshing. Head on down to catch the happy hour where you'll be able to bag 2-4-1 on all cocktails and £20 bottles of prosecco. 

135 Bar & Lounge

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Situated in Bethnal Green, 135 Bar & Lounge is a stylish cocktail bar with a vintage vibe, inspired by the 1930s. The speakeasy-style space features traditional decor and Art Deco touches, as well as soft lighting and cosy velvet booths to drink in.

Expect a buzzing atmosphere at all times, with regular live performances alongside DJs playing jazz, blues and disco. Their talented mixologists craft all kinds of creative, seasonal cocktails, and they also offer fine wines and gourmet sharing platters.

Retro Bar, London

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Looking for a little nostalgia on your next night out? Then head to Retro Bar, a welcoming gay bar located close to Charing Cross. This quirky space is filled with mismatching decor and pretty fairy lights, as well as an antique jukebox that plays rare, retro tunes.

They also host a regular lineup of live music and DJ sets, promising all the best 70s and 80s tunes to dance to - with a seating area for more casual drinks as well.

Mari Vanna

With outposts in St Petersburg, Moscow and New York, Mari Vanna is a gaudy-but-gorgeous interiors vintage bar in London. Think peeling wallpaper, shawl-covered lamps, crystal bowls and stacking dolls all taking you back to the days of Soviet Union Russia surrounding you as you sip vodka.