Knowing that bars and drinking establishments were worthy of their own Michelin Guide-style statuses, Hannah Sharman-Cox and Siobhan Payne (of London Cocktail Week fame) have introduced the Pinnacle Guide. Ranking bars with 1, 2 or 3 pins, this system aims to celebrate and reward great bars with an accolade worthy of being shared. All venues are vetted through a rigorous process, and in earning their pin, show that bars of whatever size, or brand-intent, can achieve this status. Below, we've listed some of the Pinnacle Guide bars in London.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Last updated on 5th September 2024
Swift Soho is an award-winning bar serving gorgeous cocktails and over 300 types of whisky. It features intimately lit interiors, spotlights fixed to silver beams and glossy walls across two floors. The downstairs bar offers a more seductive environment, operating on a reservations-only basis, and serving more complex tipples. Here you can look forward to getting your lips around an Irish Coffee, made with Jameson Stout Edition Irish Whiskey and a nutty Praline Flip.
If you don't book at this one Pin bar, then you may miss out on walking through its unsuspecting door, just off Old Street, and entering a world full of 1920s allure. Nightjar Shoreditch offers an escape from the bustle of the city, fronting exposed brick walls, a dark wooden bar and a piano which features in its sort after jazz nights, where swing bands soundtrack your evening. The menu changes on a regular basis with featured spirits, with past inclusions having been the innovative Forrest Floor, made with Brugal 1888 Rum and Scarpa sweet vermouth.
Kwānt is a gorgeous concept bar located within the heart of Mayfair, from the marvellous mind of Erik Lorincz and Momo's Mourad Mazouz. It's a swish spot at its core, featuring elements of 1940s classic Casablanca with tropical trees and notes of tiki, thanks to its bamboo-styled ceilings. The drinks list combines classic flavours with modern twists, such as the signature bloody mary, made with Marmite Grey Goose Vodka and mustard air, and there's an indulgent seven-course tasting menu (£120) ready for you to indulge in, too.
With a Michelin star to its name, Kol is a popular Mexican restaurant found within the quaint streets of Marylebone, with Santiago Lastra at its helm. Upon entrance, you'll be met with gorgeous stone walls and shelves scattered with clay pots, surrounding a bustling open kitchen. The cocktail list is a thing of beauty, particularly when its Antojitos menu (translated as little cravings) can be enjoyed in the venue's own Mezcaleria. Specialising in seasonal ingredients and homemade sloe mezcal, drinks include a Blackcurrant Leaf Negroni and Corn Old Fashioned, made with mole bitters.
Sexy Fish is a celebrity magnet and it's not hard to see why: sporting stunning fish sculptures hanging above a golden, glowing bar, it's truly a beautiful sight to behold. It's the brainchild of Richard Caring and Caprice, the group behind The Ivy, J Sheekey's and Rivington Grill, and has Ben Orpwood in the kitchen whipping up East Asian-inspired eats. Drinks-wise, you can expect to be charmed by Trinity, a cocktail list offering three dimensions of flavour, aroma and texture. Look forward to the Coconut & Lemongrass Delicate, the Marshmallow & Raspberry Unctuous and more.
Having been voted 'World's Best Bar' consecutively, Artesian at The Langham is a breathtaking spot to enjoy a signature sip; it's no wonder it's made the Pinnacle Guide too. Inside, you'll find elegant interiors by David Collins Studio: think rich, purple leather sofas and high ceilings. If you're hungry, you'll find curated menus by Michelin star chefs to enjoy with your cocktails. From whiskey sours garnished with insects, to a herbal margarita-style Moringa, there's something for everyone.
