Nightjar

Head below street level near Old Street into Nightjar’s elegant, low‑lit cocktail lounge—a true homage to Prohibition‑era glamour. Decorated with pressed‑tin ceilings, dark wood paneling and dim candlelight, it banishes the hustle above into another world. Operated by pioneers of the Paris cocktail revolution, Nightjar offers a creative menu split into eras—Pre‑Prohibition, Prohibition and Post‑War—featuring riffs on classics with unique touches like peanut‑butter ice cubes and Cornflake smoke. It’s cocktail theatre with substance: vintage spirits, floral garnishes, rare ingredients and bold presentations that taste as good as they look. There's seating only—no standing room—and a strict booking policy: if you arrive late, expect to lose your table after 15 minutes. Live jazz, blues or swing starts nightly around 9 pm (or earlier on Sundays), with cover charges varying by day. Between Monday and Wednesday, music is often free; later in the week, expect a modest per‑person fee. Light bites complement the drinks: smoked nuts, olives, croquettes, ham & cheese boards among others. The staff are skilled cocktail purists—professional, knowledgeable and unflappable. Whether you’re here to unwind after work, enjoy a date night, or soak up late‑night live music in a refined setting, Nightjar remains one of London’s most iconic cocktail destinations—consistently ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars.