A diamond in no-ho
Alright, yes: it's in the middle of nowhere. But despite being a bit of a pain to get to from where I work, I still end up here with my friends more often than I do any of the bars which are on our doorstep, which is why I feel it deserves a review.
This place is one of my favourite venues in central London for a classy, high-quality cocktail without the fluff of knocking on a secret door or being added to a list a month in advance. I like the relaxed americana vibe and the sophisticated lounge downstairs (though the latter not so much in the summer, I have to say).
The thing that really sets this place apart for me is the service. The bar manager is an absolute gem, and will take the time to listen to what you like and whip up something special based on a bunch of ingredients you've probably never heard of (well, maybe you have, but I certainly hadn't. Falernum?). There always seems to be something new and homemade to sample in all kinds of weird and wonderful combinations, and they serve food as well, which I've found particularly handy if one or two drinks turns into three or four and dinner becomes necessary to avoid a Wednesday-morning hangover.