Piano bars are becoming increasingly popular and these are the best places if U are looking to change your tune...

The American Bar

Responsible for introducing the cocktail into the lives of the British public in the 1930s The Strand based bar is located inside the Savoy Hotel. It was here that Harry Craddock (professional Barman) authored his famous bartending bible that is the ‘Savoy Cocktail Book’.  With a baby grand in action every evening the 125-year-old bar is often ranked among the World's Top 50. Expect bar staff dressed immaculately in white blazers with black ties and a perfected welcome as if greeting a long lost friend. Presented in a wonderfully warm art decor style and complemented by an Ivory colour palette the American Bar is an evocative space, to say the least. Erik Lorincz has headed the bar since its reopening in 2010 and is best known for his commemoration of the Dimond Jubilee at which he served punch from the Savoys main Entrance Fountain. Head here for a drink in the footsteps of previous patrons like Frank Sinartra, Laurence Olivier and Marilyn Monroe.

Boisdale of Bishopsgate

This City outpost offers a fine dining restaurant, Champagne and oyster bar in Bishopsgate (a short walk from Liverpool Street), serving the finest modern British cuisine, with regular events and live jazz most evenings. Decorated with deep-red walls, leather seats, dedicated cigar list and assorted Caledonian memorabilia. Expect a menu of hearty Scottish fare and a show-stealing whiskey selection as well as a fondness for live jazz. Regular live music is also on offer at their other outposts (Canary Wharf, Belgravia and Mayfair). 

Piãno Bar Kensington

The Piãno Bar, opposite High Street Kensington tube station, is a real gem. A dark little door leads up a dingy staircase into a small speak-easy type bar with a focus on delicious cocktails, and a talented array of performers. With a different pianist playing almost every night this is the most dedicated of all of Londons great piano bars. Serving a regularly changing menu accompanied by a short wine list, the bar is operational from Tuesdays through to Sundays with most performances starting at 6pm (Sundays start from 8.30). The bar hosts a 160-year-old Collard & Collard grand piano and a collection of pristine leather armchairs. Expect a sophisticated night, any day of the week at Piãno.

Bassoon

Perhaps one of Londons most beautiful bars, Bassoon has made it on to our list for a number of reasons. Designed by David Collins Studio, Bassoon is a London destination bar with attitude. Bassoon pays homage to the arts of the finest bartenders in the capital. Bespoke cocktails, fine Champagnes and boutique spirits are served in elegant replicas of Queen Victoria’s glassware along a seven metre bar that sweeps seamlessly into a Roland Piano. Most evenings play host to the live music Signature Sessions, which have previously included performances from Lana Del Rey and the Scissor Sisters and showcase the best music from breakthrough artists, as well as established performers. With jazz-inspired art from William H Johnson and an Art Deco design signature, the spirit and rhythm of the 1920s music room makes for a luxurious and cosy drinking den. The bar is open throughout the week from Sunday to Thursday from 5pm to 2am and Friday and Saturday from 5pm to 3am. 

Ideal For

Boozy knees-up