Rockwell at the Trafalgar Hotel

Named after an LA rat-pack hangout, Rockwell is a swinging lounge for sharply tailored blades & foxy dames. Its sleek, airy retropolitan interior not only boasts a devilishly handsome sweep of bar, it also houses one of the best collections of bourbon outside Kentucky. Over 100 varieties include familiars such as Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark & Bulleit, but get the knowledgeable staff to introduce you to the likes of Old Ezra, Elijah Craig & 20-year-aged Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve. It would be churlish not to try a bourbon-based cocktail (although there are endless paler alternatives): try the Deep South’s equivalent of Pimms, the Mint Julep. A further reason to visit is the spectacular roof terrace with fine views out onto Trafalgar Square, & a bar that serves ice-cold lager, Champagne & Bellinis. Pricey, but worth it.