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Mains + Martinis Sumptuous drinks and dining in what was once an old London police station. The last word in luxurious bar food at a London landmark. And the chicken dining experience that keeps on giving… Claridge’s Bar Claridge’s, Brook Street, Mayfair, London, W1K 4HR. claridges.co.uk (£££) The vibe: Yes, you should head to Claridge’s Bar for a birthday or an anniversary, but the thing is it makes every occasion, with friends, partners or parents, feel like a celebration. Smart red leather bar stools, comfortable cub chairs, natural wood and discreet Lalique lighting combine for pure elegance. Add in the inviting informality, and dressing up or keeping casual both fit the bill.
the Duck Rolls with peppered blackberry sauce are ideal cocktail accompaniments. But for sheer decadent indulgence we suggest sharing the Lobster Wellington with sauce Américaine, green salad with avocado and truffle French fries. Its arrival is jawdropping – the pastry is perfectly lobstershaped and within lies all the sumptuous meat of a whole lobster. One of the very best things we have ever tasted.
The food: One of many reasons we love this bar is that you can order any dishes from the hotel’s Foyer & Reading Room restaurant, and enjoy them without leaving the comfort of your table. Canapés like the Prawn Tempura with carrot, chilli and soy dip and
The drinks: Order your favourite classic cocktails here and rest assured they will be exceptional. Hence we started with a couple of sublime Dry Martinis, impeccably balanced and chilled. But make sure you also try some of the bar’s original creations. We
54 - The Cocktail Lovers
went for The Royal Stag (Dalmore 15-YearOld Whisky, Campari, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, chocolate bitters and roasted almond) and The Mayfair (Rémy Martin XO, Carpano Antica, Laphroaig 10-YearOld Whisky and Disaronno Amaretto). Both were rich, luxurious and delightfully in keeping with the surroundings. And both were utterly delicious.
