The American Bar at The Savoy

Cooler than Frank Sinatra doing it his way, The American Bar oozes style and has a string of awards to its name, including the prestigious Spirited Awards Best International Bar Team for 2018.

Today, that team is headed up by Maxim Schulte, following in the footsteps of a veritable who’s who of bartending. Erik Lorincz, Peter Dorelli and Harry Craddock, author of the iconic 1930s Savoy Cocktail Book, have all been ‘behind the stick’ here.

First opened in 1893, when fancy ‘American-style’ mixed drinks were all the rage, the bar now evokes a golden era of cocktails, with its understated elegance and flawless service – all set against the backdrop of a tinkling piano and ice gently clinking in cocktail shakers.

The list changes every year, but the current line-up takes inspiration from the bar’s iconic collection of celebrity photos by Terry O’Neill – and it’s a delight to peruse. Highlights include First Impressions, an uplifting blend of Bombay Sapphire Gin, yuzu wine, St Germain and Champagne cordial with a hit of white pepper, that commemorates the first meeting of David Bowie and Elizabeth Taylor.  There’s also Sinatra’s Stage (naturally), a wise-cracking concoction of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, Dom Bénédictine, pistachio syrup, lemon and Martini Rubino Vermouth.

Drinks are beautifully presented in bespoke and vintage glassware, with meticulous attention to detail. Of course, the skilled team of bartenders can also recreate any classic fix you care to name – and will probably remember what you ordered on your last visit too. Pure class.

The American Bar at The Savoy remains one of London’s most iconic destinations for cocktails and refined all-day dining. Set in the heart of Covent Garden, this glamorous bar is perfect for dates, romantic occasions, celebrations or any visit that calls for a touch of old-school elegance. With a history that stretches back more than a century, the American Bar continues to impress with its award-winning drinks and impeccable service.

Decor blends timeless style with contemporary polish. A glossy grand piano sits at the centre of the room, surrounded by warm cognac leather chairs and small marble tables arranged for intimate conversation. Stone pillars, geometric carpets and subtle metallic accents lend gentle Art Deco flair, while soft lighting and mirrored panels create a cosy yet sophisticated ambience.

The bar team, led by Angelo Sparvoli, is renowned for its craftsmanship. Cocktails range from reimagined classics to modern signatures served in bespoke glassware with meticulous attention to detail. Guests can also explore a wide selection of champagne, English sparkling wine, global wines, spirits and non-alcoholic options.

Food is designed to complement the drinks experience. Appetisers include caviar and oysters, while nibbles range from cauliflower nuggets to mini Yorkshire puddings. Sharing boards offer highlights such as award-winning British cheese and meat or a salmon tasting board with hot smoked salmon, gravlax, capers, pickled shallots, creme fraiche and crisp bread. Savoy classics include the Cornish lobster roll, handcrafted mini hot dogs, Onglet steak with peppercorn sauce and organic beef sliders. Desserts feature macarons, dark chocolate and passion fruit bonbons and white chocolate and lime ice cream sandwiches, with teas and coffees to finish.

With its legendary reputation, glamorous setting and exceptional drinks, the American Bar remains one of Covent Garden’s finest places to unwind in style.