1 Lombard Street Bar

The high chairs lined around the chic circular bar at this imposing former banking hall are arguably the best seats in the house, directly beneath Pietro Agostini’s splendid dome. They provide the best possible vantage point for eyeballing all the comings & goings, pinstriped machinations & social posturing. But there’s more than mere people watching to keep you glued to your seat. Cocktails (from £7.50) take in classic Negronis, daiquiris & Manhattans, as well as assorted martinis with a twist, & more innovative creations including the blackberry cooler with mint-infused Bombay Sapphire gin & fresh lime juice. There are also wines aplenty, non-vintage Champagne from £39 a bottle & a short menu of nibbles, ranging from robust Hispanic tapas to a selection of mini sausages with English mustard & mash.