In our column, A Seat At The Bar we showcase the world’s best bars – from plush cocktail spots to dive bars, and everything in-between. This month, we’re spotlighting BAR45 at 45 Park Lane.
Inspired by the artistic journey embedded within the hotel’s DNA, the new cocktail menu at BAR45 mirrors artwork that adorns the hotel’s walls, and the various masterpieces from around the world. From Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s multi-coloured polka dots to the subversive work of surrealist painter Magritte.
The Lowdown
On an energetic corner opposite The Dorchester and adjacent to Park Lane lies 45 Park Lane. A bustling metropolis is forgotten outside as you are enveloped by warm lighting, mahogany furnishings and deep arm chairs – this is the perfect escape on a cold and rainy winter’s night. The rich interiors create a sophisticated yet intimate space for chatting the night away over countless cocktails.
The venue ensures a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds with a rotating series of art exhibitions, art in ever corner and a distinctly Art Deco vibe hums throughout. Enter through a curved silver facade to be met by rich interiors and inviting low-level lighting that asks you to immediately hunker down and head upstairs to the bar. On a sidenote, downstairs is also the fabulous restaurant, Cut by Wolfgang Puck, that is well worth a try. But onwards and upwards to the bar!
What To Order
The Negroni Trolley is the star of the show. I started with a gin Martini which was of course perfect but the theatre and excitement all lies in the trolley. Designed to celebrate the art of a negroni the trolley has recently been updated by the wonderful new bar manager, Enrico Perri. The trolley features five handcrafted Negronis each carefully paired with a bespoke fragrance matching the soul of the classic aperitif, and a rare Negroni Vintage using Gordon’s London Dry Gin 1970s and Antica Formula 1980s. Take for example the Chocolate Negroni which will be spritzed with a bergamot and chocolate fragrance, beautifully rich and intense on the alcohol, served with an enormous spherical ice cube. It’s as if drinks have been missing the spritz all along!
The bar snacks also provide a treat. The tuna cones and spring rolls are a must, while those looking for gluten-free options can indulge in oysters, beautifully presented on a silver platter adorned with a silver octopus and smoking dry ice.
When To Go
Mid-week drinks present a cosy and elegant atmosphere, not too busy but just busy enough to get a seat. Weekends and pre-Sunday lunch are also a great time for pre-dinner drinks to whet the appetite.
Who To Bring
In the heart of Mayfair, this is a perfect for afterwork drinks with a girlfriend or colleague. Make sure to toast over a negroni.
The Dress Code
For this time of year cosy, chic is perfect for the rich furnishings. Early in the week I would opt for a knit with structured jacket and Chanel slingbacks. As the week goes on I would turn up the glamour, especially if you might head downstairs for dinner and then out into town for the evening.
The CF Tip(ple)
Make sure you sit at one of the low tables instead of the bar so you can have the full negroni trolley experience, and for the full table-side theatre experience.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?