Where To Get A Great Cocktail In St James’s

It’s that time of year again when the festive season kicks in, St James’s has you covered with a host of great bars for a tipple or two. The dynamic offerings mixed with a breadth of mixologists, you are truly spoilt for choice.

The Cocktail Safari covered 4 of the best offerings from the St James’s area. The Stafford’s American Bar, Chutney Mary, Café Murano and newly opened Norris’s. The tour was led by renowned cocktail guru and Global Diageo World Class Ambassador Spike Marchant. His local knowledge and expertise set the scene for a great night.

The Stafford, American Bar
This legendary space belongs to the great tradition of American cocktail bars that became renowned in London and Paris in the 20s. The bar has a unique space occupied by donated gifts from hotel guest consisting of ties, flags, caps and even model planes. We had the choice between 4 of the signature cocktails, ’The White Mouse’, ‘The Oppenheimer’ and non-alcoholic option ‘The Scoop’. I opted for The Oppenheimer (Beluga Vodka, Italicus, St. Germain, Lemongrass Syrup). Named after The Oppenheimer Blue the world’s largest and most expensive vivid blue diamond. It was sold at auction in Christie’s in 2016 for 57.6 million. It’s worth ordering alone for its unique presentation, a diamond shaped glass rotating on a circular base really does add to the experience.

Chutney Mary, Pukka Bar
Restaurant Chutney Marys Pukka Bar showcases a fusion of contemporary India, the range of flavours is a unique mix which sets your taste buds tinging. We sampled two of the signature varieties, the Old Monk Mule and Warm Sindhi Daru Cup. One is a great take on a classic, the other a great winter warmer sure to please those in need of a festive offering. Opened for over 25 years, the guys sure are experts at drink and food pairings. I recommend the Chicken Biryani or the Golden Fried Prawns.

Café Murano
The relaxed and inviting atmosphere really draws you into this Northern Italian restaurant. We sampled two styles of Negroni paired with their delicious Ciccheti. You really do feel you have been transported into an Italian setting which adds to the charm of this great restaurant.

Norri’s
The newly opened bar is sure to be your new favourite bar with its mix of delicious blends and reworking s of classic cocktails. Live piano music also sets the atmosphere for a great evening.

There you have it, St James’s has you covered this festive season now it’s time to organise your soirée.

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