Emily Syphas, founder of Sober & Social, a global community that supports those wanting to explore and lead a teetotal lifestyle, shares with you her favourite spots to ensure you wake up hangover free while not having to compromise on your social life!
The elegant interiors are by Irish designer Bryan O’Sullivan, and features panelling from a 300-year-old walnut tree with Brutalist-inspired arch forms that run through the space referencing the home of the Grenadiers, an infantry regiment of the British Army whose stables were originally located on the Wilton Place grounds where the hotel was built. Glass doors lead out onto an intimate terrace with tables that overlook the neighbouring St Paul’s church. "A historical yet chic and elegant bar, perfect for a cosy cocktail. They also have an intimate terrace for warmer days. If you are going with a group of friends, book 'The Snug' (pictured), which has its own sound system and button service - you can have your own sober bar! Top tip: order the No mule - made with Everleaf, Verjus & ginger beer.
A hangout by the team behind much-lauded Old Street speakeasy Nightjar. Oriole draws “on the adventurous spirit of a bygone era of exploration and discovery”. That partially explains the décor, which includes a three-faced mask from the Congo and a bronze sculpture from the Amazon, while live swing, jazz and blues provides drinkers with further distraction. "My Farringdon favourite, the decor is amazing, the staff are run and the menu is delicious! Top tip: Book for the dinner and show experience.
Cahoots is Soho’s underground home that transports guests back in time to post-war 1940s to a disused underground tube station, where guests can enjoy bespoke cocktails, 1940s rationed snacks and regular entertainment with homages to the 1940s stars of the stage and screen. "Cahoots describes itself as a playground for London scoundrels and that’s exactly what it is! The 1940s themed bar in the heart of Soho is set in an abandoned train station. The speakeasy bar serve amazing mocktails, great bar food and live swing entertainment. Top tip: order Apple Of My Eye, made with Seedlip, cloudy apple juice, pear purée, ginger, elderflower & lime.
Set against a shimmering backdrop of silver, platinum pink and polished pistachio, the bar delivers immaculately tailored drinks. Inspired by English Cubist and Irish 1920s art, late designer David Collins produced a gem of a London bar and the excellent team serve up a cocktail menu, which is a fusion of tradition and innovation. "I love this Mayfair bar at any time of the day. It is warm and traditional with candle lit tables. A perfect place to pause, relax whether it’s for a morning coffee or an evening Mocktail. Top tip: ask for Ago he makes the best cocktails and is always up for experimenting and making you your favourite AF tipple!
Jason Atherton’s award-winning little bar, hidden above his restaurant the Social Eating House, on Soho’s Poland Street. The drinks are inspired by children’s literature with a list of playful, inventive cocktails that are as delicious as they are nostalgic. "I love this classic yet modern hangout. A cool, speakeasy hangout to catch up with friends. The drinks are playful and beautifully presented. They food reflects the vibe of the bar - fancy pub grub! Top tip: order the non-alcoholic version of Pooh’s Hunny Pot.
Swerving the booze
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