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 Baccarat Bar, located within the esteemed department store, Harrods.
The new cocktail menu at Baccarat Bar pays homage to the multifaceted world of photography and is inspired by the creative lens and techniques of the craft.
There are an impressive nineteen new cocktails on the menu, each of which draws inspiration from the artistry of photography. Cocktails explore different photography techniques: black and white, clarity, saturation, colour inversion, sepia, bleaching, bokeh, long exposure, lens flare, and temperature gauge.
The team here pride themselves in experimentation, innovation and unique storytelling, and each drink is tried and tested in the bar’s own drink lab, where the magic of creation happens.
The Lowdown
With interior design by the team behind the French luxury brand, Baccarat – a renowned leader in high-end and exclusive crystal products – Baccarat Bar is a secluded hideaway within Harrods, one of London’s most iconic department stores. Accessible through a private entrance on Hans Crescent, you’ll enter into a dazzling crystal and red velvet-clad bar, with world-class French craftsmanship. Expect Baccarat crystalware throughout the bar, alongside handcrafted chandeliers and glasses, each individually designed to elevate the luxury French experience.
Low lighting, plush seating and painterly tables lead the way – the rich interiors perfect for a seductive winter’s night chatting over experimental cocktails and soaking up the glamorous SW1 vibes. The bar will not only tickle the discerning interior lover with its opulence, but also the tastebuds of the most dedicated cocktail aficionados, too.
What To Order
Each photography technique inspires two cocktails on the menu.
Highlights include the Colour Inversion cocktail-duo. Its inspiration comes from colour inversion in photography – where the familiar is transformed into the unexpected, igniting a sense of wonder – and the two drinks achieve the contrast. The first in the duo is Pepper-berry Club, which combines raspberry with a touch of beetroot and a hint of spice. The other, in-contrast cocktail of the set, is Cool Blues, which presents a more aromatic, perfume-like raspberry experience, with golden beetroot and a hint of menthol. Order this duo for you and your guest – and be sure to taste each others.
The Saturation twosome is equally tantalising and, in the same way saturation in photography enriches and deepens the image, so too it enhances the flavours of these cocktails. In this set, the Acai Punch took us to sunnier climates with its zest and tang of tropical fruit, and is complemented by the Haitian cane spirit, Clairin. The second of the pairing, Ramos Fix is more like a Piña Colada but with a cream fizz.
In another contrasting – but always welcome – pairing, good cocktails should be enjoyed over good food. The chefs here promise a mouthwatering array of small dishes; highlights include the crispy-fried baby squid, mac and cheese croquettes, Cumbrian beef tartar and exceptional truffle fries. The bar can cater to dietary requirements too, offering limited but tasty options for plant-based eaters.
When To Go
Baccarat Bar is open late, every night of the week, so there’s plenty of time to visit. Opt for a night cap post-dinner date, or go early evening for some light bites and cocktails post work.
Who To Bring
Intimate and cosy, this is a great spot for date night. It feels sexy, alluring and private – guests keep to themselves.
The Dress Code
You’ll want to feel sophisticated heading into Baccarat. In keeping with the sultry red interiors – red velvet trousers, a chic black bodysuit and a statement bag are perfectly suited.
The CF Tip(ple)
Sit in one of the corner booths for a romantic experience.
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