London's hidden gem bars use the city's geography — basements, alleyways, behind-the-bookcase rooms. The 10 below show why London does the speakeasy form better than almost anyone.
Part of our 50 Best Hidden Gem Bars in the World listThis article is one chapter in our larger global guide. See the full pillar with every featured city.
Read the world list
The 10 best hidden gem bars in London
01 · London
Spitalfields
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Basement · Tailor front
Below the actual Discount Suit Company tailor on Wentworth Street. Forty seats, no reservations.
Order: Bartender's choice, stirred
02 · London
Mayfair
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Phileas Fogg's home
Phileas Fogg-themed Victorian drawing-room bar. Antique-stuffed, gas lamps, hot air balloon overhead.
Order: A Tipperary
03 · London
Clerkenwell
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Hidden cocktail bar · Industrial
Hidden Clerkenwell cocktail bar with industrial design and strong cocktail program.
Order: A signature cocktail at the bar
04 · London
Spitalfields
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Through a Smeg fridge
You enter through a Smeg refrigerator door. Spitalfields speakeasy with classics-driven menu.
Order: A Manhattan with their reserve rye
05 · London
Soho
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Above Social Eating House
Above Social Eating House on Poland Street. Hidden Soho cocktail bar.
Order: A bartender's choice
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06 · London
Hoxton
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Basement · Tiny
Below a burger restaurant on Hoxton Square. Forty seats, no fuss, exceptional drinks.
Order: Perfect Storm (rum, ginger, mint)
07 · London
Soho
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1940s tube station theme
Themed as a 1940s London Underground station. Theatrical drinks served by tube-staff costumed bartenders.
Order: A wartime-themed signature
08 · London
Soho
$$$
Hidden basement · Reservations
Hidden Soho basement cocktail bar. Reservations only. Modern technique with classical leans.
Order: Bartender's choice
09 · London
Soho
$$$
Counter · Modern
Modern Soho cocktail bar. No gimmicks, just precise drinks.
Order: Whatever's on the seasonal menu
10 · London
East London
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Through a typewriter shop
Through a working typewriter shop in East London. Hidden cocktail bar with strong technique.
Order: A signature cocktail at the hidden room
More London hidden gemsThe full London hidden-gem-bar index by neighbourhood.
See the full list
How London does the secret-bar form
Discount Suit Company is the iconic one. Mr Fogg's Residence is the most theatrical. Most peak between 9 PM and midnight.
