The nightlife scene in London has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to meet friends for a catch-up after work or planning a huge celebration, you’ll find a great venue in London that will fulfil your every requirement. From trendy Soho bars to cosy hideaways, check out some of the best wine bars in London and make your next night out one to remember.
Head to Covent Garden for a glass of wine in one of London’s most historic literary venues – don’t forget to raise a glass to Charles Dickens while you’re there. In Islington, there’s a fabulous hotspot for wine tastings, while Peckham is the place to be if you want to enjoy your wine sustainably – low-impact, environmentally friendly suppliers only. And in London Bridge, there’s a great London wine bar inspired by Parisian bistros – an elegant way to start your weekend.
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Check out some of the best wine bars in London for your next night out
For one of the best London wine bars loved by locals – check out Humble Grape in Islington, Crouch End, Battersea, Fleet Street and Liverpool Street
Humble Grape has its flagship independent venue in Islington, alongside sister venues at Crouch End, Battersea, Fleet Street and Liverpool Street. This independent wine merchant runs bars, shops and events, including wine tastings, so you can learn more about the grape in warm and welcoming surroundings. Inspired by the greenery and elegant brickwork of Islington, this is one of the best wine bars in London. With a light and spacious dining area and emerald-tiled bar, step into this urban oasis. And don’t forget to bring your four-legged friends – the bar is completely dog friendly. While humble is in the name for a reason, that doesn’t mean the wines are anything less than spectacular. The menu evolves regularly but expect sparkling chardonnay champagnes from France and rich cabernets sauvignon from Australia. And, to soak it all up, add some seared octopus and chorizo with potatoes or some crispy pork belly with a mustard and orange glaze to your order.
📍 Islington — Check availability
📍 Crouch End — Check availability
📍 Battersea — Check availability
📍 Fleet Street — Check availability
📍 Liverpool Street — Check availability
For one of the best hidden wine bars in London – pay a visit to WC Wine & Charcuterie in Clapham and Holborn
WC Wine & Charcuterie has two key venues in London – one in Clapham and one in Holborn, hidden in an ex Victorian WC. The food focus is on tapas and small plates, designed to be shared and get the conversation flowing. The wine list has over 30 options, each carefully chosen to provide something for everyone. Or, try a signature cocktail – maybe the indulgent signature cocktail trade winds with dark rum, chocolate and spices. The food menu is equally as delightful, featuring dishes such as duck rillettes with cranberry, whole-baked camembert with honey and rosemary, and a vegan sharing board with wild mushrooms, crackers and vegan cheeses. If you don’t fancy a cocktail, then go for a chilled glass of white flavoured with lemon, honey and white flowers, or a rich red from the Rhone Valley with notes of chocolate and geranium. The award-winning design complete with candlelight offers a quirky and intimate venue that’s perfect for date night.
📍 Clapham — Check availability
📍 Holborn — Check availability
For an international wine list inspired by world travel – pull up a chair at Plume Wine Bar in Covent Garden
The historic venue for Plume Wine Bar was chosen for its unique history. Once the publishing house of none other than Charles Dickens, this gorgeous building from the mid-19th century is now an attractive place to gather for wine, snacks and conversation. Spread over two storeys and with popularity spread by word of mouth, this speakeasy-style bar is a global adventure in itself. People-watch from bistro tables on the street or choose from the two distinctively decorated indoor bar and restaurant areas. Great international wines are always the key focus here – try a perfectly chilled white Bordeaux from France to cool you down in summer, or a fruity, rich and luxurious Syrah from South Africa to warm you up in winter. On the side, perhaps order a plate of house flatbread with honey-hot halloumi, or a Plume Dog” a premium sausage with garlic mayo, cheese and crispy onions.
For one of London’s best wine bars for bistro dining – book a table at Levan in Peckham
Named in honour of a legendary disco DJ, Levan aims to take guests to seventh heaven and back again. A wine list expertly curated, working with organic, low-environmental-impact, biodynamic suppliers, and a food menu that’s as sustainable as it is scrumptious. Neck a few drinks without having to worry about the planet – start with a kir white wine aperitif with blackcurrant liqueur, then a French chardonnay from Jura. While dining, complement your meal with a chilled red Beaujolais or a rich cabernet sauvignon direct from Tuscany. The food is equally as delectable as the wine – think pan-seared duck breast with liver, redcurrant and beetroot, or Vesuvio tomatoes with Manchego. Alternatively, go for the chef’s menu with wine pairings and explore fresh peaches with caper leaves, scallop noodles with salsiccia and chillies, and a triple cheese course. Finish with a light and refreshing blackberry leaf sorbet and go home happy.
For one of London’s best wine bars with great Italian food – visit Baccalà Seafood & Wine in Bermondsey
Discover some of London’s best seafood with carefully chosen wine pairings at Baccalà Seafood & Wine, where the true artistry of Italian cuisine shines through with every creation. Charming, seasonal and sustainable, this is without a doubt one of the best London wine bars for seafood lovers. Choose counter seating for an interactive, social experience, or book a table for a more intimate evening. The extensive wine selection is of course a highlight – sip a glass of fizz to get in the mood to celebrate, or kick back with a bottle of Italian Valpolicella after work. Many of the listed wines are sourced from small independent artisan producers in Italy, so you get a real taste of the Mediterranean. For dinner, head to the raw bar for oysters and wild bass carpaccio, or order up some monkfish with wild fennel and chicory for something more filling.
For the best European wine label in town – take a trip to The Remedy Wine Bar Shop & Kitchen in Fitzrovia
Pop into The Remedy Wine Bar Shop & Kitchen any day of the week and prepare to be astounded by the ever-revolving wine list, European-inspired food menu and carefully decorated interior. The vibe is distinctly Mediterranean, while the ethos is to create a space where everyone can find some relaxation – the “remedy” to busy modern life. The menu rotates on a monthly basis, reflecting the best of seasonal produce crafted into traditional recipes. You might find grilled sardines with salsa verde, or a ripe ricotta made from smoked sheep milk and served with Riccio tomatoes and shallots. Add a side of mixed cheeses and charcuterie and it’s time to choose the wine. If it’s a celebration, there are more than a dozen champagnes on offer. Or for a simple night out, maybe a glass of Sicilian rosé or even an orange weinviertel for something a little different.
For a tiny slice of France in the heart of London – head on over to Boro Bistro in London Bridge
Whether you’re looking to relax over great food and wine in a cosy garden terrace or brighten up your Thursday evening with some live music while you dine, Boro Bistro has found its place as one of the best wine bars in London. The food menu is inspired by the best of French bistro food, which means a plethora of cured meats, French cheeses and other sharing boards. Or go for a taps-style evening, with small plates such as Padron peppers, croque monsieur, potted meats and tapenades to soak up the wine. And you will want to try the wine. The focus of the drinks’ menu is on the best French wines and Belgian beers – a real taste of Europe. Try a glass of chilled sauvignon gris from Bordeaux, or a refreshing Vedett Extra pilsner, available in pint, half-pint and two-third sizes.
For an intimate date night at one of the best wine bars London has to offer – try Quality Wines in Clerkenwell
A neighbourhood gem operating as a wine shop and local restaurant with an ever-evolving blackboard menu of foods inspired by the Mediterranean, Quality Wines is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesdays to Saturdays. All the wines are also available to purchase by the bottle from the shop, so if you discover a new favourite, you can take it straight home. The lunch special is always worth a try – just £15 for a seasonal main course and a glass of wine, or a beer or soft drink if you prefer. While the menu changes weekly, samples include pork belly with Santorini fava and olives, aubergine agnolotti with pine nuts and ricotta salsa, and raspberry and almonds tarte with fior di latte ice cream. Add a glass of Italian fizz or a Syrah from the Rhone Valley to complement your food.
For award-winning wines from independent winemakers – check out 56 West Smithfield in Farringdon
Founded by a family of winemakers, with a proven history of passion for both the creation and service of the best quality wines, 56 West Smithfield brings you the best of the French vineyard in the heart of London. Château De La Cômbe is a small family vineyard in Provence, and the wine list at 56 is not only inspired by this – it is created by it. Rare blends, unique grapes and above all, loving techniques, all combine to make these wines some of the best you will ever taste. While every glass or bottle has been hand-crafted, the lack of a middleman means you won’t pay exorbitant prices. If you fancy sampling something great but want to take some home for later, you can purchase any bottle in the shop at the original local winery cost. And for just a £5 corkage, you can try a glass before you head out.
For one of the best Italian wine bars in London – pay a visit to The Italians Wine Food Market in Marylebone
When thinking about the best wine bar in London, The Italians Wine Food Market is one hotspot that surely should spring to mind. Passionate people serving only the highest quality foods and wines in an environment designed to tantalise the senses. Creating a community of Italian-style foodies right in the heart of central London, this is a venue not to be missed. The wine is the highlight of the menu and showcases the very best of Italian – from a crisp pinot grigio to a robust Valpolicella. Alongside your wine, sample one of no less than five different cheese boards, featuring the best of Italy, or add a classic bruschetta or salad of artichokes, spinach and Parmigiano. For something more filling, a traditional lasagna or vegetarian lasagna will hit the spot, with cannoli or baked crostatina for dessert.
One of the many benefits of living in London, or even of visiting the capital, is that there is so much to see and do right on your doorstep. With so many great restaurants in London to choose from, not to mention pubs and bars, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Book yourself a table right now on OpenTable and start your night at one of the best wine bars in London.
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