Bar 190 at The Gore

If you weren’t aware of this iconic hotel bar’s rock & roll past, you might be surprised by its part Venetian-gothic, part vampire’s boudoir decor: in the Swinging 60s, the location was used by the Rolling Stones for their Beggars Banquet album cover; more recently, it saw the launch of rocker Liam Gallagher’s fashion line. The interior doesn’t scrimp on atmosphere: the aforementioned Stones lark about on huge, gilt-framed canvases, & upholstered alcoves provide cosseted VIP seating for visiting celebs (with a minimum spend of £350). Cocktails use premium pours, fresh herbs & home-infused liqueurs, while the bar menu stretches from club sarnies & burgers to mix-&-match tapas platters. The food is aimed at the pre/post-Albert Hall crowds & prices take no prisoners – Bistro 190 next door offers more bang for your buck.