Best Cocktail Bars In Soho

Looking for cocktail bars in Soho, London? Old Compton Brasserie offers a sprawling bar and lounge where the inventive cocktails, curated by the Talented Mr Fox, steal the show. Bringing together all those classic Soho characteristics, this cocktail bar offers a stunning range of drinks named for the area's most famous residents. Enjoy a sip of history with drinks named after Soho legends like Karl Marx, Regina Fong, and Muriel Belcher. Art lovers will also find happiness here, as the space is adorned with vibrant local artwork. From pop art of icons like Twiggy and Kate Moss to urban pieces celebrating Soho's storied past, the decor adds a splash of culture to your cocktail experience. When the weekend rolls in? The drag queens descend, the music gets turned up and the fizz starts flowing with delicious brunch plates. 

Best cocktail bars in Soho, you ask? Atelier Coupette is an elegant cocktail bar located on Moor Street, fronting a shinty steel bar and vintage decor. You can expect to get your lips around some bespoke creations here as well as some delicious French tapas to eat. Look forward to sipping on the likes of a Sweet Miso Old Fashioned in this sophisticated den, and tempting your tastebuds with BBQ hispi cabbage, chargrilled octopus and king prawns in a bonito sauce.

Simmons, which you can find in Soho and Greek Street, has built its reputation on kitsch interiors and cute cocktails, but it sweetens the deal by being affordable as well. Step into a '90s throwback at this quirky spot, where a fireplace centrepiece, funky wallpaper, and a delightfully random disco skull set the scene. With two levels of fun, you'll feel right at home at Simmons Bar in Soho. With their famous happy hour (3pm to 8pm daily) thrown into the mix, this is a must-see place to visit for fun cocktails with friends and after-work antics. We'd recommend trying the Punch In The Head; an overproof rum concoction served in a Damien Hirst-esque crystal skull, or the My Tie, a clever twist on Trader Vic's rum classic.

Sitting snug in the Roundhouse building, Soho Residence is a historic structure dating back to 1892. This Wardour Street spot specialises in botanical sips, swoon-worthy interiors and late-night parties aplenty. This iconic joint has welcomed famous performers from all corners of the globe in the past, and today, it's home to top-notch mixologists, lavish décor, and world-class DJs. Mixing old-time charm with modern flair, Soho Residence boasts a swanky lounge built for the most sophisticated palates, serving drinks like The Cherry Sherry Cobbler, Raspberry Fool, and Just Jack. Head here on the weekend to much on handmade pizzas before taking to the dance floor 'til 3am.

Tucked away in the heart of Chinatown London, Opium is a shabby-chic haven behind a jade-colored door. Ascend the winding staircase to discover a multi-floor cocktail lounge and dim sum parlour, complete with three distinct bars, secret rooms, and cosy nooks perfect for a relaxing escape. Spearheaded by seasoned bar moguls Dre Masso and Eric Yu, Opium combines East Asian-themed decor with modern twists. Decked out with Chinese decor and quirky furniture, this haunt has signature sips such as the rum-infused Opium n°10, coconut negroni and the Heavenly Hibiscus - a heady mix of gin, hibiscus, honey, lychee and prosecco.

For slick cocktail-sipping in Soho? It has to be The Dilly, one of London's finest hotels that was constructed back in 1901. Found beneath the hotel, their underground speakeasy-style piano bar aptly titled Downstairs At The Dilly offers a range of marvellous mixes, including a gimlet served with flavoured smoked bubbles. The drinks menu is filled with London-inspired sips and locally-sourced ingredients, featuring goodies like Chapel Down English sparkling wine from the vineyards in Kent. And if that wasn't enough, there's live jazz and soul music on regularly. Whether you're popping in for a cocktail before hitting the West End or a cozy night out, this delighful venue is the perfect backdrop for any and every occasion. 

Whether you're looking for a couple of cocktails before heading to the theatre, or a late-night drinking spot complete with live DJs, Dovetail Bar at Empire Casino is the perfect place for you. They even offer cocktail masterclasses with their talented bartenders, if you fancy whipping them up yourself.

There's a sunny rooftop terrace that's ideal for the summer months, with spritzes aplenty to enjoy. As for the interiors, expect tiled walls and sultry dark furnishings.

Replacing the legendary The Pinstripe Club from the Swinging Sixties, Disrepute takes inspiration from its scandalous past and melds it with the vibrant cocktail scene of London today. The place to be for those that love delicious cocktails and fabulous interiors begging to be shared on Instagram, enter this lavish den and flick through their poetry-filled menu, with a night of sophisticated conversation guaranteed to occur. The menu is a narrative journey, where each cocktail is a chapter that pays homage to Soho's colourful history. From classic spirits to adventurous blends, the selection caters to both the traditionalist and the adventurous palate, featuring tipples like the Monica Belluci, made with passion fruit liqueur and elderflower lemonade.

Basement Sate is a cocktail bar in Soho with a difference. Bringing a touch of Parisian elegance to the heart of Broadwick Street, this bar is decked out in dark wood, cosy nooks and exposed brick interiors. Enjoy innovative cocktails such as Made In Ecuador featuring Cocoa Beefeater Gin, banana, berry, and citrus, as well as Fluff made with Shizo Aluna Rum, green chilli aquavit, coconut, lime, and egg white. Plus, they also serve a range of delicious pastries. So why not satisfy your curiosity (and sweet tooth) on a late-night escapade to this gorgeous haunt?

Prefer sipping your cocktails amid extravagant chandeliers, zebra-print seating, and fancy Venetian mirrors? Freedom is a cocktail joint and DJ hangout spread over two floors where you'll feel the lively energy of West End performers as a nod to the venues rich connection to London's theatrical scene. The club hosts top-notch DJ sets, and features incredible performers and dance poles, all complemented by top-tier service from friendly staff. As for drinks, expect to sip on goodies like the Jack Daniels and black forest-infused Liz Taylor, as well as the Monkey Shoulder Scotch-mixed Jack Hudson.

Nestled in a basement in Greek Street sits one of the big fun time party bars in Soho, Be At One. Masters of mixing up magical potions, cocktail artistry, and throwing epic parties, they have definitely earned their stripes as one of London's top cocktail joints. These folks whip up creative, out-of-this-world drinks like nobody's business and provide the perfect backdrop to revel in unique sipping and dancefloor shenanigans. With a license until 3am and an extensive cocktail menu - including some ice cream infused delights - means you can spend all day partying and drinking cocktails in one place.

Scarlett Green isn't just one of the best brunch spots in town (though we definitely recommend checking them out on a weekend), they also have a fantastic range of delicious cocktails. Bringing Australian food and coffee culture to London, the bar, the staff, and the cuisine are all equally impressive at this buzzy venue. Head down to this pretty joint spread out over two floors, serving up palm-print menus, cute dusty pink plates, and swanky marble-topped tables just begging to be Instagrammed, to sip on a selection of wine, craft beer and cocktails like Heatwave Honey, Sky At Night and The Peggy Lee.

The refined Archer Street bar exudes the vibe of an exclusive members-only club without the fuss. Featuring two distinct floors, upstairs is a cosy cocktail lounge, while downstairs is a themed basement bar that offers a carefully curated wine list with New and Old World selections, as well as highly exclusive Billecart Salmon champagnes. You'll also find fine spirits, refreshing beers, and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks to quench your thirst. Their policy is sophistication with a hint of playfulness, which is reflected in their fun cocktail menu with drinks like Honey For Nothing or Do Ya Pink I'm Sexy? Plus, their bar staff are also famous for singing the odd tune, if you fancy it.

One of Soho's coolest spots for late-night cocktails, Lucky Wong draws inspiration from the romantic tale A World of Suzie Wong and the vibrant 1950s Hong Kong backdrop, combining traditional Chinese elements with contemporary twists. Here, you can kick back and enjoy an array of Asian-inspired drinks dreamed up by the award-winning mixologist Dré Masso. Grab yourself a table to guzzle a quirky selection of creative drinks, including the Cherry Blossom Manhattan, Yu Dynasty and Shi-so Sour or simply dive into to the droolworthy Cantonese cuisine.

On the hunt for rooftop bars in Soho? Aqua Nueva is a stunning central London bar, located just a stone's throw from Soho on nearby Regent Street. Head here for a Spanish-inspired feast complete with traditional surroundings, tapas-style dishes and hand crafted cocktails. This spot exudes the vibrant essence of Spanish culture, boasting pretty white mosaic flooring and a copper-coloured vaulted ceiling. Whether you opt for an al fresco experience on their stunning rooftop terrace or an intimate evening indoors, it is sure to be a dining experience like no other. Elevate your evening by sipping on expertly crafted cocktails such as El Genio and Unnamable while soaking in the iconic vistas of London.

The Cocktail Club Oxford Circus is a laid-back underground hideout that draws inspiration from Downtown LA. Tucked away in the heart of Soho, this underground spot embodies the nostalgic atmosphere of house parties with its artsy street-style decor and lumberjack-style furnishings. As the night goes on, the rock and roll atmosphere kicks into high gear, with epic cocktails like the clover club and French 75, as well as bacon and egg martinis, flowing. And when hunger strikes, you can munch on everything from popcorn and onion rings to chilli squid.

Found in the centre of all the action, Rupert Street is one of the most popular Soho cocktail bars and the most fabulous LGBTQIA+ hangout going. Not only is it a fun and friendly space, but it also boasts seriously stylish interiors and a stellar lineup of sips, including a delish salted caramel old fashioned. As one of London's oldest gay bars, this place oozes glamour and boiler-room vibes. The lush industrial chic interior, drenched in over-the-top design with big windows and a huge mirror, screams fabulous and is a go-to for all kinds of celebrations. Head down to indulge in tempting cocktails or kick back with some Champagne while you people-watch.

Located on Old Compton Street, Swift Soho is bound to impress. Channelling the spirit of European bars where you can grab a quick drink to wind down or gear up for the night, this joint in Soho effortlessly blends the cosy vibe of a local pub with the sophistication of a reservation-only bar. Head upstairs, where you'll be met with a fast-moving and elegant setting, making it ideal for those glamorous affairs or, pop downstairs to enjoy some sultry sips in the laid-back space. Here, you can enjoy traditional serves with a modern twist. Standout cocktails include the Rockaway, featuring Jack Daniel's Bonded Whiskey, and the Petal, a delightful mix of sweet vermouth, raspberry, framboise, Campari, and prosecco.

Searching for places to drink in London? Fronting leather booths and gold tables, Covent Garden Social Club is located in the basement of the Arts Theatre. Whether you're soaking in live music and comedy in the Piano Bar upstairs or witnessing swinging lights and fire breathing in the Basement Bar, get ready for a fantastic night full of creative cocktails. From the Southside Royale with its flamed absinthe mist, Bombay Sapphire Gin, ice-cold Prosecco and Bacardi Coconut combo to the Solero Sundae mixed with La Vida Tropica Liqueur, passionfruit syrup and cream, their drinks are like a party in your mouth.

For a secret cocktail bar in Soho, look no further than Nightjar Carnaby. Serving up the same stellar speakeasy vibes as its famous Shoreditch sister, this swish spot is the place to head if you're looking for quirky concoctions and smooth live jazz. With dim lighting, a stage framed by a shimmering gold curtain, and plush seating, this sultry spot boasts a cocktail menu full of sexy sips, like the boozy barrel-aged zombie and the Filmograph, a Prohibition classic with Hennessy VS Cognac, Santiago de Cuba 8-year-old rum, Aecorn spiced, and Barka Muscat eau-de-vie.

Every night at The Little Scarlet Door is a house party. Serving up kooky cocktails on Greek Street, this cool bar is fronting New York loft vibes and an Andy Warhol-inspired vault, where guests are immersed in a playful blend of kitchen discos, bathroom banter, and living room dance-offs. Better yet? This secret spot has epic DJs keeping you on the dancefloor come the weekend. Cocktails here are inspired by the mysterious flat-owner's favourite movies and TV shows, such as The La La Land, made with 42 Below vodka, Martini Rose, Mozart White, raspberry, and vanilla. Feelin' peckish? Munch on charcuterie boards, fancy toasties, and mezze plates to keep the hunger at bay.

Love your cocktails with an extra dose of live music and late-night partying? Then The Lower Third is just the place for you. With a commitment to spotlighting emerging talents, this venue embodies the essence of its historic roots, blending top-notch cocktails with stellar entertainment. Indulge in libations such as Diamond Life, Dreamboat Annie, and Body Talk, each a tribute to the area's rich musical legacy. Not only is there a lounge and The Forge (The Grade-II listed site of the iconic 12 Bar) for tailored programming, but also a club room to finish your night in.

Tucked away in the heart of Soho, The Arts Theatre Club is a cocktail bar and a swanky private members club that revels in Prohibition era-esque surroundings. The candlelit lounge, adorned with private tables, plush sofas, and a vintage piano-turned-DJ booth, strikes the perfect balance between laid-back and lively. Sip on their impressive cocktails, served in vintage China and Prohibition-style teapots, and nibble on delectable snacks to keep hunger at bay. Some of their standout drinks include Coco Maluku, Off Me Nut, and 7th Heaven, each offering a unique twist on classic flavours.

You'll find The Bloomsbury Club Bar inside the iconic Bloomsbury Hotel, flaunting gorgeous, interiors that create a cosy feel - think magical fairy lights, indoor trees and foliage, topped off by comfy sofas to relax in. They also host jazz nights every Wednesday and Saturday, which are totally free to attend.

Their Egyptian-themed cocktail menu features 12 carefully curated sips - we recommend the golden Kheper. Plus, you can snack on tasty bites like pea and gorgonzola arancini or truffle fries.

Cahoots is a subterranean sanctuary in the heart of Soho, transporting guests to the 1940s with its quirky underground tube station vibe. Step back in time to an era when Londoners sought refuge underground during air raids, recreated here with bespoke cocktails, rationed snacks, and lively entertainment paying homage to 1940s stars. Cocktails, rum, gin, and London ale are served in unconventional vessels like quirky mugs, hip flasks, vintage milk bottles, and tins featuring drinks like I Say Tomato, Gone With The Waves and Sherry Cherry Lady.