You are spoilt for choice in London for nightlife, and Mayfair gem The Q Bar at Quaglino’s is one of those venues that never ceases to amaze. Since its conception in 1929, it has hosted all manner of rawkus parties, celebrities and royal visitors. More low-key than the Chelsea set, there has always been substance to this central London bolt hole, and I was transported into its glamourous heyday, when I visited on a school night (natch!)
As soon as you enter the discreet doorway, you are welcomed into a decadent mezzanine bar with sumptuous velvet seating and mirrors, which is the ideal place for a clandestine meet. However, as soon as you descend the the iconic staircase, you will be transported in to a total era of extravagance!Join those in the know and step back in time to one of the capital’s most lavish interiors, which graciously emits old school glamour; Even with a recent refurbishment, the restaurant has retained its 1920s speakeasy vibe. The large dining room has a new central cocktail bar, but maintains the effortless charm and familiarity synonymous with the golden age, and the cocktail menu is equally as enchanting.
The Q Bar offers some ‘all time classic cocktails’ with names befitting iconic musical masters! Perfect for sharing, I recommend the ’Somebody to Love’ with a whisky and orange base. ‘Sex Machine’ has enough alcohol to make anyone roar! Mostly Johnny Walker Black, Port and cherry liqueur, it may or may not make you want to croon James Brown songs. Other options are aptly named ‘Money’, ‘My Way’ and ‘Jammin’ and whichever you choose, it will have been blended to perfection! Coupled with bar snacks- try the pork sliders, truffle croquettes or mac n cheese, it is very easy to indulge on a school night!
Pull up a stool and enjoy intimate cocktails, bar snacks or the impressive wine list, and survey the diners and cabaret from your perched vantage point; or book a table for a sit down dinner, with a menu inspired by Euro-fusion staples, which will also allow you to be nearer to the soulful stage acts, and join the diners when the restaurant transforms into a live-music mecca, which is perfect for partying into the early hours.
