2 Best Bars in London, England

Background Illustration for Nightlife

The pace with which London bars and clubs go in and out of fashion is mind-boggling. New trends, likewise, emerge all time. In one somewhat recent development, the dreaded velvet rope has been usurped by the doorbell-ringing mystique of members-only drinking clubs. Some of the city's most talked-about nightlife spots these days are those attached to some of the best restaurants and hotels—no wonder, when you consider the increased popularity of London cuisine in international circles. Moreover, the gay scene in London is still going strong. One constant of the nightlife here is variety. The understated glamour of north London's Primrose Hill, which makes movie stars feel so at ease, might be considered dull by the übertrendy club goers of London's East End. Likewise, the price of a pint in Chelsea would be considered blasphemous by the musicians and poets of multicultural Peckham.

Whatever your pleasure, however your whim turns come evening, chances are you'll find what you're looking for in London's ever-changing arena of activity and invention.

Bar Américain

Soho Fodor's choice

The beaux arts--style interior of this enduring and popular subterranean bar just north of Piccadilly Circus is so opulent that you'd be forgiven for thinking it had been here since the 1890s. In fact, it's a relatively new revival and has been a hit since it was reconverted in 2012, along with the cavernous Parisian-inspired Brasserie Zédel and the adjacent Crazy Coqs cabaret, which share the premises. The outstanding cocktail list covers Pre-Prohibition, Prohibition, and Post-Prohibition classics—ranging from an 1884 Turf Club vermouth to a 1948 Army & Navy gin—with additional special menus on occasion.

Ain't Nothin' But Blues Bar

Soho

This long-established live music venue off Carnaby Street hosts largely local blues musicians and bands as well as some notable international names, that squeeze onto the tiny stage. It's generally hot and sticky, and there's decent bar food of the chili-and-gumbo variety. On most weekday nights, there's no cover charge.