Boot & Flogger

The original Boot & Flogger opened back in 1964, the first of many wine bars in Davy’s gentrified London empire. Today, the promise of superior imbibing remains satisfied, & it’s easy to see why this excellent wood-panelled watering hole is a favourite with the political & legal set, what with its fine upholstered furniture & list of limited-availability vintages (no hoppy draughts here). Dozens of affordable Old World wines by the glass are joined by a number of half-bottles, if time & clear-headedness are at a premium. The booze is matched by gentlemanly food offerings such as Morecambe Bay potted shrimps, game pies & cuts of rare sirloin, which simply add to the Flogger’s general air of geniality & old-fashioned charm.