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Ranked fairly consistently one of the Top Bars in the world. Okay, VERY misleading. A friend told me so I had just had to check it while I was in London. The Connaught Hotel, while stunning and elegant from the outside, the bar is quite small and honestly, cannot see anything special about it. There were at least two bars that I could tell and the "main" bar is a bit of a wait. When I looked inside, it was easy to see why. It is incredibly small and groups of people come in and dominate the few tables/sitting areas there are. And it seems most of the people who come here are "dressed to impress". I ordered an old fashion with Blanton bourbon. My first clue should have been the servers reaction when I asked for an old fashioned with Bourbon. She gave an expression as if she had never heard this before. When I received the drink, it was in an odd egg shaped glass not in a traditional high ball glass. There were small ice cubes, not even clear ice, unlike the traditional large single clear ice cube. There was no orange slice garnish and no dark cherry garnish. I'm not convinced they used Blanton's as requested and if they did, it was one of the weakest old fashioned drinks I have ever had. My friend had a gin drink which ironically did come in a traditional high ball glass with the single large clear ice cube. For a snack, they provided green olives and some type of pretzel. Apparently they also have food items but when asked, we weren't given any type of menu or offered the ability to order food. The only thing I enjoyed was the other room where we were seated, had an open roof with a nice view when you looked up (providing it is a clear day). I have no idea why this place has this reputation for such a great bar when they cannot even make a decent drink such as an old fashioned. I have traveled all over the world and it's a mystery how this place can hold such a ranking as I know there are better places in London to get a drink. It seems more like a place where no one wants to say what they are thinking since everyone else raves about it. Don't waste your time and money. The drinks are not even "okay" and there is nothing special about the bar. It's quite elegant, but I really don't care how proper the servers are and the look of the interior if the drinks are poor.
Short version: Excellent service. Nice ambiance. Some of the most innovative cocktails I've ever had. Wine selection also excellent for a bar. I've now been 2 times. The first time was when they had the world's best bar ranking and 2nd time was recently. Both times I just walked in and after a short wait was shown to a table. I liked how the staff quickly took my jacket and had it checked before I even sat down. I'm usually a whisky drinker. I rarely get cocktails in bars because they are usually too sweet, or cheap ingredients are used or something. This bar is the rare bar where I actually only get cocktails. The cocktails are that good and inventive. They change them up periodically which is good. If you like your cocktail they give you a little card that has all the ingredients for your cocktails. As usual the service is impeccable. I cant wait to go back and see what new cocktails they are making. Highly recommended and a must stop in London.
I got a call that my grandma died in the middle of my visit to this bar and still had a net positive experience. I showed up right when it opened at 4pm and there was already a line building up, so lesson learned - if you want a guaranteed spot especially on a popular day, make sure to show up early. I was seated at a nice table and was immediately brought little crackers and olives, which were refreshed throughout my time even before they were empty. They also gave me a complimentary sip of some wine-based drink that was a nice touch. I ordered the Connaught martini and they warned me there would be a bit of a wait as they only have one martini trolley. A bit unusual for a popular bar that is popular specifically for their martinis, but whatever. The wait didn't end up being that long although I heard the martini speech being delivered to both tables next to me so it lost some lustre by the time the trolley got to me. Nonetheless, it was fun smelling the bitters and choosing one (I picked coriander). It was a phenomenal martini, maybe the best I've had. It was, however, £25. With that said, anytime I've spent that much on a cocktail before I usually feel like I've been robbed, which I didn't feel like here. When you factor in the service, atmosphere, experience, and complimentary treats, it really doesn't feel that insane. The biggest complaint I had, quite frankly, was the bathroom, which had a loooong line as it's shared with the entire Connaught hotel. Three toilets was NOT enough for the space. Overall would I come back? Honestly, yes, which I was not expecting to be able to say.
It's a hotel bar with well made martinis. Situated within the Connaught hotel, the entrance is right behind the giant stairs. Line to get in forms right next to the gents. No reservations, no way to leave a name and if the hostess deigns the line too long, you will not be permitted to wait in line. Also hotel guests get to skip the line. Not a place to come for a last minute drink or just to chill and relax. Currently No 1 in the world but I don't think it is that unique enough to justify its ranking. Been to other bars where it felt like bartending and cocktails were a craft and I don't really get the vibe here. Drinks were pretty standard. They do give a lot of free snacks like whole bowls of crackers and olives. A lot of the traffic here I feel is because of its current title (new rankings out on Oct 4th), so that people can say "I have been to the no 1 bar in the world". They also provide recipe cards for any drinks you order which is a great touch. The vibe is classy and elegant so dress to impress or you won't be getting past the hostess! If you are on vacation and are tight on time, this is NOT a must do. Honestly, it's a high end hotel bar. Update: Dropped to #8. Got to say ranking is pretty fair.
We walked in on a Monday night early November around 8pm. We were initially offered standing room only spaces at the bar which we were happy to take. We were offered a couple of mini refreshing drinks served in small coupe glasses which were tasty. After ordering a couple of cocktails at the bar we were offered seats which was great. The highlight of the experience was the tableside martinis. You are initially offered a card with the scents of five bitters to choose from. After that sit back and enjoy the expert bartender do magic creating your martini. We were here on our honeymoon and were offered some congratulatory chocolates which was much appreciated. Overall a very memorable experience!
I had never heard of this spot until my sister came to visit and mentioned it was on her list. When I looked it up and saw Mayfair I admittedly rolled my eyes but the pictures of the beautiful bar itself and the awards seemed worth a stop in We must have lucked out by going on a Monday right at 4pm when it opens. Sat right away at a corner low booth, and promptly served a welcome drink (vermouth and fresh pineapple juice) and two bowls of snacks. I almost fell over when the first drink I looked at came with a price tag of £150, but realized it was the vintage section (a handful of cocktails with vintage gin, mostly). Most cocktails were about $25-35, with unique and quality ingredients. They also have some food items, as pricey as you would expect and ranging from normal to fancy: £40 for a pizza, $35 for a sandwich and some caviar for $80 or so This is a gin focused bar and majority of drinks feature it and they have their own gin as well. We saw at least two tables order the famous martini cart (they come over and tell you the history of the drink while they make it in Front of your table). It was nice to see it in action with out paying that price tag. I was unlucky in my drink orders - they sounded delicious but neither to my taste, first was too sweet and none of the tumeric, kombucha or Chili flavour. The second, one of their "classics" No 11 was just too strong and again couldn't taste the floral notes it was meant to have. My sister however had two delicious drinks so like I said mine was more a preference issue than quality issue (her choices hovered closer to £40 though!). Four drinks and a bottle of water was over £150 so this is certainly a special ocassion place. But worth it for the beautiful decor, good service and extensive cocktail menu
Excellent service. Was sat promptly in primary room (wait and try to sit in the front of the house). Great wine and cocktail selection. All drinks served with olives and crisps. We were treated like royalty by attentive an attentive server. If it had not been for the £25-30 a drink price, we would have stayed all night. Remember these are smaller sized portions too in the UK, given hard alcohol pour limitations.
Great service - thanks Faron at the front desk. She kept the venue very well regulated and was able to provide us a table when available. Professional and courteous! Overall excellent cocktails. I enjoyed just the simple straight vodka martini over the Number 11. Drinks were decently strong and very unique mixes. Comfortable seating, kind staff, and great selection. Premium pricing!
3 months ago
A very special night out - a burger, caviar, fries and martinis at the Connaught. What a gorgeous way to celebrate. We went at opening time and managed to snag one of the last tables. Pricey, but a very special treat. read more
Drawn in by their top bar ranking, we soon found ourselves surrounded by designer outfits and sipping our welcome drinks as martini carts wheeled past us. The vibe is admittedly a bit elitist, with menu pricing to match, but honestly we loved it for the ritzy vibe that it is. Their servers were very attentive, professional, and the drinks were all over the board for me. Our group of 4 ordered 13 cocktails, and I'd say we loved 7 of them, hated 2 of them, and the other 4 were decent. Must order: Connaught Martini, Daydreaming, & Opposites Attract The Connaught is one of those things you have to experience to understand its allure.... I'd highly recommend everyone give it at least one try if you find yourself in London! read more
1 year ago
Went to the Connaught in hopes to sit at the famous "voted best 50 in the world" unfortunately on a sat night during Christmas week they were full , so was able to go to their other hotel bar which was lovely Service was great, coatcheck is offered and drinks were of course expensive- but you are in the heart of Mayfair Extensive menu with great descriptions of cocktails Dark moody hotel vibes read more
Ranked fairly consistently one of the Top Bars in the world. Okay, VERY misleading. A friend told me so I had just had to check it while I was in London. The Connaught Hotel, while stunning and elegant from the outside, the bar is quite small and honestly, cannot see anything special about it. There were at least two bars that I could tell and the "main" bar is a bit of a wait. When I looked inside, it was easy to see why. It is incredibly small and groups of people come in and dominate the few tables/sitting areas there are. And it seems most of the people who come here are "dressed to impress". I ordered an old fashion with Blanton bourbon. My first clue should have been the servers reaction when I asked for an old fashioned with Bourbon. She gave an expression as if she had never heard this before. When I received the drink, it was in an odd egg shaped glass not in a traditional high ball glass. There were small ice cubes, not even clear ice, unlike the traditional large single clear ice cube. There was no orange slice garnish and no dark cherry garnish. I'm not convinced they used Blanton's as requested and if they did, it was one of the weakest old fashioned drinks I have ever had. My friend had a gin drink which ironically did come in a traditional high ball glass with the single large clear ice cube. For a snack, they provided green olives and some type of pretzel. Apparently they also have food items but when asked, we weren't given any type of menu or offered the ability to order food. The only thing I enjoyed was the other room where we were seated, had an open roof with a nice view when you looked up (providing it is a clear day). I have no idea why this place has this reputation for such a great bar when they cannot even make a decent drink such as an old fashioned. I have traveled all over the world and it's a mystery how this place can hold such a ranking as I know there are better places in London to get a drink. It seems more like a place where no one wants to say what they are thinking since everyone else raves about it. Don't waste your time and money. The drinks are not even "okay" and there is nothing special about the bar. It's quite elegant, but I really don't care how proper the servers are and the look of the interior if the drinks are poor. read more
10 months ago
Yum! Chips and olives were great- Nice bar with great lighting and great service Drinks were yum, not necessarily mind blowing but definitely timeless and delicious. Highly recommend if you're stopping into London read more
2 years ago
Great experience! A must do for at least one drink in the area. The experience and ambiance were amazing! Cheers mate! read more
Short version: Excellent service. Nice ambiance. Some of the most innovative cocktails I've ever had. Wine selection also excellent for a bar. I've now been 2 times. The first time was when they had the world's best bar ranking and 2nd time was recently. Both times I just walked in and after a short wait was shown to a table. I liked how the staff quickly took my jacket and had it checked before I even sat down. I'm usually a whisky drinker. I rarely get cocktails in bars because they are usually too sweet, or cheap ingredients are used or something. This bar is the rare bar where I actually only get cocktails. The cocktails are that good and inventive. They change them up periodically which is good. If you like your cocktail they give you a little card that has all the ingredients for your cocktails. As usual the service is impeccable. I cant wait to go back and see what new cocktails they are making. Highly recommended and a must stop in London. read more
I got a call that my grandma died in the middle of my visit to this bar and still had a net positive experience. I showed up right when it opened at 4pm and there was already a line building up, so lesson learned - if you want a guaranteed spot especially on a popular day, make sure to show up early. I was seated at a nice table and was immediately brought little crackers and olives, which were refreshed throughout my time even before they were empty. They also gave me a complimentary sip of some wine-based drink that was a nice touch. I ordered the Connaught martini and they warned me there would be a bit of a wait as they only have one martini trolley. A bit unusual for a popular bar that is popular specifically for their martinis, but whatever. The wait didn't end up being that long although I heard the martini speech being delivered to both tables next to me so it lost some lustre by the time the trolley got to me. Nonetheless, it was fun smelling the bitters and choosing one (I picked coriander). It was a phenomenal martini, maybe the best I've had. It was, however, £25. With that said, anytime I've spent that much on a cocktail before I usually feel like I've been robbed, which I didn't feel like here. When you factor in the service, atmosphere, experience, and complimentary treats, it really doesn't feel that insane. The biggest complaint I had, quite frankly, was the bathroom, which had a loooong line as it's shared with the entire Connaught hotel. Three toilets was NOT enough for the space. Overall would I come back? Honestly, yes, which I was not expecting to be able to say. read more
10 months ago
It's a hotel bar with well made martinis. Situated within the Connaught hotel, the entrance is right behind the giant stairs. Line to get in forms right next to the gents. No reservations, no way to leave a name and if the hostess deigns the line too long, you will not be permitted to wait in line. Also hotel guests get to skip the line. Not a place to come for a last minute drink or just to chill and relax. Currently No 1 in the world but I don't think it is that unique enough to justify its ranking. Been to other bars where it felt like bartending and cocktails were a craft and I don't really get the vibe here. Drinks were pretty standard. They do give a lot of free snacks like whole bowls of crackers and olives. A lot of the traffic here I feel is because of its current title (new rankings out on Oct 4th), so that people can say "I have been to the no 1 bar in the world". They also provide recipe cards for any drinks you order which is a great touch. The vibe is classy and elegant so dress to impress or you won't be getting past the hostess! If you are on vacation and are tight on time, this is NOT a must do. Honestly, it's a high end hotel bar. Update: Dropped to #8. Got to say ranking is pretty fair. read more
We walked in on a Monday night early November around 8pm. We were initially offered standing room only spaces at the bar which we were happy to take. We were offered a couple of mini refreshing drinks served in small coupe glasses which were tasty. After ordering a couple of cocktails at the bar we were offered seats which was great. The highlight of the experience was the tableside martinis. You are initially offered a card with the scents of five bitters to choose from. After that sit back and enjoy the expert bartender do magic creating your martini. We were here on our honeymoon and were offered some congratulatory chocolates which was much appreciated. Overall a very memorable experience! read more
2 years ago
It deserves its reputation as one of the best bars in the world. It's popular so go early or be prepared to wait. read more
I had never heard of this spot until my sister came to visit and mentioned it was on her list. When I looked it up and saw Mayfair I admittedly rolled my eyes but the pictures of the beautiful bar itself and the awards seemed worth a stop in We must have lucked out by going on a Monday right at 4pm when it opens. Sat right away at a corner low booth, and promptly served a welcome drink (vermouth and fresh pineapple juice) and two bowls of snacks. I almost fell over when the first drink I looked at came with a price tag of £150, but realized it was the vintage section (a handful of cocktails with vintage gin, mostly). Most cocktails were about $25-35, with unique and quality ingredients. They also have some food items, as pricey as you would expect and ranging from normal to fancy: £40 for a pizza, $35 for a sandwich and some caviar for $80 or so This is a gin focused bar and majority of drinks feature it and they have their own gin as well. We saw at least two tables order the famous martini cart (they come over and tell you the history of the drink while they make it in Front of your table). It was nice to see it in action with out paying that price tag. I was unlucky in my drink orders - they sounded delicious but neither to my taste, first was too sweet and none of the tumeric, kombucha or Chili flavour. The second, one of their "classics" No 11 was just too strong and again couldn't taste the floral notes it was meant to have. My sister however had two delicious drinks so like I said mine was more a preference issue than quality issue (her choices hovered closer to £40 though!). Four drinks and a bottle of water was over £150 so this is certainly a special ocassion place. But worth it for the beautiful decor, good service and extensive cocktail menu read more
Excellent service. Was sat promptly in primary room (wait and try to sit in the front of the house). Great wine and cocktail selection. All drinks served with olives and crisps. We were treated like royalty by attentive an attentive server. If it had not been for the £25-30 a drink price, we would have stayed all night. Remember these are smaller sized portions too in the UK, given hard alcohol pour limitations. read more
2 years ago
Great service - thanks Faron at the front desk. She kept the venue very well regulated and was able to provide us a table when available. Professional and courteous! Overall excellent cocktails. I enjoyed just the simple straight vodka martini over the Number 11. Drinks were decently strong and very unique mixes. Comfortable seating, kind staff, and great selection. Premium pricing! read more
2 years ago
Friend recommended I check out this bar and it is quite impressive. They offer a welcome drink complementary, offer a coat check. Ordered a Bloody Mary. The bar is so popular wasn't really anywhere for me to sit. The martini cart seemed renowned, not a martini drinker though. read more
The Connaught Bar being ranked as the #5 bar in the world was one I knew I had to visit! It has been the top bar a few years ago and it was the place to be! It is a small bar in the Connaught Hotel (one of three) and they don't accept reservations unless you are staying at the hotel. Be prepared to wait for space or for the bar to not have any openings one night. Even for one, I had to wait 30 min for a spot to stand at the bar but it was worth it! Shoutout to Ricardo who is a great bartender. Extra bonus if you speak Italian as the staff all speak it. read more
My friend and I had afternoon tea at the Connaught and it was an amazing experience. We then heard on multiple occasions that the Connaught Bar is the best in the world, so we decided to migrate over to the bar to kick-start our evening. However, I was utterly disappointed by the service I received here. For the #1 bar in the world, I expected a high-level of professional service from the waitstaff to the manager but what we received was discrimination and service worse than an unrranked bar. Upon being seated, we immediately noticed that we were not offered the same level of attention as some other patrons in terms of menu recommendations and not even offered water, but no big deal, we're here to check out the drinks. The problem arose when our waiter carried over the drinks we ordered and accidentally knocked it over and spilled it all over myself and the table. The only time this ever happened to me was being served by a novice, underage girl at a bar in the US. Upon spilling the drink on me, the waiter did not apologize. He just mentioned that he will go get it cleaned up immediately and make a new drink. This was something that we can not brush off. It was the insincerity of the waiter although he made the mistake. There was no remorse for what he did. The new drinks were brought and we, of course, drank them. The cocktails were subpar for the price that's charged. The waiter never came to check on us again and never apologized throughout. When the bill came, I expected at least a discount or a comped drink for their negligence. However, we were charged the total price. We were upset at this point and told the waiter about our disappointment and asked to speak to the manager. They had a little team huddle in the back and after waiting for a while, the manager finally comes over. Before we even finished laying out what happened, he cuts us off and told us that he already heard the story. We got into a bit of an altercation and he eventually just reluctantly waived the entire bill and walked away. The whole process was extremely rude and disrespectful. Is this because we're the only Asian girls in the whole bar? Or that we're the youngest? Or that we didn't order a $2,000 martini? Overall this experience ruined our night and they should not prize themselves as the number 1 bar if there is such poor level of service. read more
2 years ago
A beautiful bar and a beautiful experience. The staff is wonderful and the drinks are uniquely delicious. I really liked the Faraway Collin's. I also like the gin they make. But don't get it in a gin and tonic, it is too subtle to stand up to much tonic. You can get a bottle to take home for £95. Very expensive for gin but that's what you get at the #5 bar in the world. read more
3 years ago
Connaught Bar is a two time 50 Best Bar winner, and it really shows. Their drinks, service, and atmosphere are exceptional. Starting from when your arrival, someone offers to take your bags and coat. A bathroom attendant is there to return them at your leisure. If tables are full you can stand at the bar. Cocktails taste divine, with their masterpiece selection being the stand outs. I had the Icebreaker, Mulata Daisy, and Your Point of View and can't say anything critical. However, their classic cocktails are just a touch of balance. The French 75 was champagne forward and the Sazerac with cognac was a touch sweet. They're still amazing, but at this level every drop matters. Classic cocktails run you over £20 as well so don't think you're saving money by ordering something more basic. Stick to their menu for the best possible experience because you're paying the same either way. It's a phenomenal bar. read more
6 years ago
I wanted to like my experience here... I really did. But it fell short of my expectations and delivery for one of the world's top bars. There are strong, well-made cocktails but it lacked that extra sense of magic that makes it one of the best bars in the world. Here's what you need to know: 1. If you can, make a reservation. It can get crowded. The hotel also has a range of different bars and restaurants, so make sure you're going to the right place. 2. The service is good but can bit a bit slow/judgmental. For example, I know that I don't usually drink martinis and have a lot of questions... but it doesn't mean that I don't know my alcohol. 3. The bar is beautiful but the decor isn't necessarily stand out. 4. Be clear about which martini you want because there are a lot of variations. It is worth trying at least once in your life... the Connaught Bar is an institution in London. However, if you have limited time and are seeking a once in a lifetime, unique experience, I recommend trying other places that London has to offer. read more
I was told to come to the Connaught Bar for a cocktail and it was worth the trip. Don't walk into the wrong bar as they have several dining spaces. If you have any issues finding it, just ask the attentive staff. I ordered the Good Fellows then the namesake Connaught. Both were amazing. The Good Fellows was a sweeter Manhattan like drink and the Connaught was like a smokey old fashion. And yes, it's literally smoked. It's a bit of the pricey side but you're paying for the experience and the perfection. I highly recommend it. read more
2 years ago
Beautiful bar with excellent service. Probably the best bar I've been to, certainly in Europe. While they do reserve some seats for hotel guests, they are considerate of customers. We started out standing at the bar, but - as promised - they found us a table and moved us quickly. We tried one of their listed recipe cocktails, which were good (though my wife was less impressed), then went to the Connaught Martini which was as good as any I've tried. My wife's off script Pisco Sour was also exceptional. Be prepared for the prices, but we felt the ambiance and service was well worth it. read more
2 years ago
4 years ago
This bar is a must in London! It's inside the Connaught Hotel which is one of the best in the city. The staff here, almost everyone is Italian at the bar, is excellent. They make you feel special! Service 10/10 Cocktails 10/10 Snacks 8/10 Atmosphere 10/10 I can't add more than perfect read more
4 years ago
This place was on point. The Grill Restaurant was great and then we went to the Martini bar after and the atmosphere was on point. Great drinks and the service was excellent. A must visit when in London read more
The tea service here is much more casual than at Claridges or the Lanesborough. It has a decidedly more American clientele and a touristy feel than some of the finer tea services. The cucumber and egg salad sandwiches were the best today. Don't be afraid to ask for substitutions on the sandwiches if you do not care for one of the sandwiches listed. Most places have vegetarian options. They will bring out additional sandwiches when you finish your first round if you request. The scones were light, warm, and perfect. The accompaniments were very nice. The jam was delicious, the lemon curd was creamy, and the clotted cream good. The pastries were an interesting selection. The coconut sorbet was light and delicious, the carrot cake was moist and tasted of cinnamon, the cookies dipped in chocolate were wonderful, the chocolate covered banana was a bit gummy on the inside, and the fruit salad was fresh with pineapple. Cons: the tea selection is lacking and the jasmine pearl tea was a bag of tea and not loose. We had to serve our own tea as our servers did not bother. The tea service was not special. They recently redecorated and chairs are very low; however, the new windows are lovely and it is nice to sit in air conditioning and be able to see outside. If you want a lackluster tea with poor service at 60 pounds a person, then this is the spot to be. read more
6 years ago
We went to the famous Connaught bar unfortunately it was fully booked. But the lady was very kind and showed us to the glass room bar which is featured a high end bar. Overall experience was very nice although I'm not a fan of martini read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
Not only did the Connaught Bar make the top 10 list for London we read later it was #1 in the World and it lived up to the hype as we closed the place down after a night at the Theater read more
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More info about Connaught Bar
The Connaught
Carlos Place
Mayfair
London W1K 2AL
United Kingdom
Mayfair
Directions
020 7314 3419
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.the-connaught.co.uk/mayfair-bars/connaught-bar
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Connaught Bar - bars - Updated May 2026
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