Britain’s best-loved spirit has been around since the 16th century. By 1750, over 11 million gallons were being consumed by Londoners every single year. Luckily, London has remained a mecca for gin lovers. Here’s our list of London’s best bars and restaurants celebrating all things gin.
Sometimes a classic steak paired with a good drink is all it takes to turn a restaurant visit into a deliciously memorable experience. That’s exactly what you can expect at Gillray’s, a Southbank steakhouse overlooking the River Thames. An added bonus for gin lovers is their stylish bar with it list of over 100 gins.
Merchant House
Award-winning Merchant House is an absolute must-visit for gin lovers. This handsome bar in the heart of the City is home to one of the largest spirit collections in the world. They also offer tasting flights and gin and whisky masterclasses for those keen to expand their palates.
Holborn Dining Room is known for its delicious seasonal British cuisine – their pies are an absolute must-try. You’ll feel right at home in this grand brasserie with its red leather banquettes, antique mirrors, and copper-topped Gin Bar. The bar stocks London’s largest gin collection – over 500 in total – so you can try something new every time you visit.
214 Bermondsey
This relaxed underground bar offers more than 100 gins, including local favourites like Little Bird. It’s a friendly, unpretentious spot – ideal for date night or catching up with friends. You can dine upstairs at pasta bar Flour & Grape or nearby at The Garrison or Café Murano.
If you’re up for a little adventure, then look no further than Mr Fogg’s Gin Parlour, a quirky West End drinking den with décor that will transport you back to Victorian times. Expand your gin knowledge with their Gin Safari tasting experience or go for G&Tea and enjoy sweet and savoury treats accompanied by gin teapot cocktails.
The City of London Distillery & Bar
Gin fans who are interested in taking their knowledge of their favourite drink to another level should pay the City of London Distillery a visit. The award-winning gin distillery has a speakeasy-style cocktail bar and hosts gin tastings, distillery tours, and Gin Lab experiences where you can distil your own gin. Snack on cheese and charcuterie platters or dine nearby at Madison or Bread Street Kitchen.
108 Brasserie
Fancy a little break from boutique hopping in stylish Marylebone? 108 Brasserie is located just off the busy high street and boasts a collection of over 40 premium gins, including their own 108 Gin which is distilled in-house. We recommend trying their signature 108 Martini before dinner in the elegant brasserie.
This is a guest post from freelance journalist Beatrice Clark. She has written for Vogue, Glamour and Vanity Fair, among others, and has spent the past 15 years living in France, England and Scotland. She is currently based in Berlin and is always on the hunt for the perfect Eggs Benedict.
