Swift

Swift opened in 2016 on Old Compton Street and became one of those bars that the Soho regulars kept to themselves for longer than was fair. It runs two entirely separate drinking experiences across two floors. Upstairs: a bright, social bar with a cocktail list built for easy drinking and good conversation. Downstairs: a deliberately dark, unhurried room with 400 whiskeys on the back bar, tight leather seating, and a cocktail menu that assumes you know what you are doing.

The bar team, founded by Bobby and Mia Horrocks, runs one of the most technically accomplished operations in London. The seasonal menus upstairs refresh regularly and consistently hit. The downstairs list is structured around spirits in a way that rewards exploration: if you are curious about Irish whiskey, Scotch, or Japanese, the team will steer you honestly and well. The Daiquiri is one of the best in London. The Old Fashioned is measured by a standard that most bars in the city do not reach.

Swift works for almost any occasion a Soho night might throw at it. Post-work in a group, solo at the downstairs bar, or a first date that you want to go well. It is one of those bars that the city's bar industry visits on their nights off, which tells you everything you need to know.