Vivat Bacchus Bar

Latin scholars will need no translation: this slick City fringe operation is a shrine to wine in all its varieties, with particular emphasis on its owners’ native South Africa. An industrial interior shifts the focus on to the star turn: five well-stocked cellars that offer a staggering 12,000 bottles, from a £14.50 house to Bordeaux royalty, such as a ’99 Margaux Le Pavillon Blanc at £135, or a ring-your-bank-manager-in-advance Chateau d’Yquem. Down-to-earth palates can sample around 20 wines available by the glass. To eat, there are set-course lunches & a deli menu strong on cheeses (over 70), charcuterie, seafood, Mediterranean & Springbok platters.