Lobby Bar (One Aldwych Hotel)

chrisp

Brash and stylish 3rd December 2008

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Some of the best drinks and nibbles I've had in London outside Claridges. We were admittedly on a jolly, but if they can keep this standard up in the future then you can call me a regular.

Cocktails were expertly made by barstaff who seemed knowledgable and genuinely passionate about their drinks. The room is huge and quite New York in style, with high ceilings and huge furniture, but the noise levels were never too high and the staff were pleasant and efficient. Best of all though were the nibbles, all made in house and consisting of sugar-coated physalis, warm roasted nuts and a simply amazing dish of huge dark green olives from Italy which tasted like butter.

I will definitely go back, and to hell with the cost.

FoodStories at 04/12/08

Those olives - oh those olives!!!

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Formaggio_Amore

Expensive but Swanky Bar in "Theatre Land" 7th August 2006

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This very grand, airy and elegant hotel lobby-bar has got dimensions of monumental proportions, more akin to a museum than a bar. Being there, sitting in one of the comfortable chairs or sofas, and looking around is a pure visual joy. Aside from the very high ceiling and giant glass windows, it is decorated with a lot of taste and elegance. A giant bronze statue of a rower & towering and an imposing flower arrangement take centre-stage. The floor is made of marble -but I would not recommend you attempt a Michael Jackson “Moon Walker” impersonation for fun as, in such surroundings, it would be a real “faux pas“, literally.

Drinks and snacks are "upmarket", including the price: cocktails there are around £10 each. Staff are very well-dressed, efficient and friendly.

On hot days, this lobby-bar is a heavenly refuge compared to the rest of the bars in the area, as air-conditioning here is perfect. The place is a very civilised, swanky, albeit pricey pre-theatre indulgence. I would have given it the 5-star treatment, if it wasn't for the price. However, if you don't mind spending it "a deux" or, if you want to impress, then come here before your show, you won’t regret it.