Our selection of the 26 best Mayfair bars

Found in Heddon Street on the border between Mayfair and Soho and just around the corner from Piccadilly Circus, The Starman is a Mayfair bar with a musical past. The house artwork pays tribute to the Starman, himself, referencing David Bowie's iconic Ziggy Stardust album vinyl cover on Heddon Street.

The Starman is beautifully traditional Victorian on the outside and has a restored stylish and modern interior that highlights the best of its original features. Spacious, welcoming, and totally relaxed. The basement bar is open till late, an ideal place for a private party, DJ set, and dancing into the small hours.

The good people of The Starman know what they're about – enjoy the hospitality, many fine wines, beers, artisanal spirits and cocktails, and a modern British menu. On Sundays, tuck into a hearty roast lunch or dinner, and on sunny days take full advantage of the outdoor seating area surrounded by overflowing pots of plants that almost make you forget you're in the heart of London, and take in the atmosphere of Heddon Street.

Amazonico takes inspiration from the allure of South America and the shine of the Amazon River and it shows. The Octo cocktail bar is fantastically underwater-inspired and themed right down to its plush clam shell cocktail chairs, porthole windows that look out into the green of the river, shimmering textures, and a striking octopus chandelier.

The upscale bar offers a unique experience, a standout signature cocktail menu, and creative dishes full of Latin American flavours to complement the cocktails! Octo can accommodate up to 95 for a private hire booking.

A distinct early 20th-century appeal saturates this Mayfair bar and terrace. Tucked away in the front corner of the Beaumont, Le Magritte pays homage to the cadre of interwar artists, writers, and intellectuals with a selection of cigars, drinks, and artworks worthy of the modest hedonistic modernist.

The central figure, though, is obviously Belgian surrealist René Magritte. The artist’s combination of the quotidian and unexpected can be seen everywhere, with nods to the Belgian’s famous work visible throughout the bar. Fun fact, the bar proprietor also happens to be the owner of various Magritte originals. Practice what you preach.

Our recommendation? Order a good bourbon on the rocks and watch the afternoon slide away to a soundtrack of smooth jazz.

Another basement Mayfair haunt, HIDE brings all the luxury and quality of a Mayfair bar whilst never leaning into making you feel uncomfortable for not, like, owning a yacht or something.

Descending the sinuous wooden staircase brings you to a cosy speak-easy that is decked out in dark wood, with an array of backlit bottles providing that sense of cosiness so suited to inundating your tastebuds with high-proof spirits.

Speaking of, the drinks menu here veers into experimental (try the Happy Distraction, a blend of single malt brandy, oolong tea and cinnamon), whilst the spirit selection is comprehensive; expect literally pages of gin, vodka, agave and whiskey to choose from.

A true HeadBox fav.

It’s the combination you never knew you needed.

Above, on the corner of Heddon Street, you’ll find Caso Do Frango’s Mayfair spot: an upscale take on Portuguese Piri-Piri (no that that Portuguese Piri-Piri chicken). Whilst consuming an irresponsible number of perfectly spiced wings is a noble pursuit, we’re most excited about the underground bar space, The Green Room.

With enough velvet seating and dark tones to make Lionel Richie blush, The Green Room is undeniably seductive as a bar space. Traditional spirits adorn the back bar and can be shaken, stirred and blitzed into all manner of drinks.

Qualingos is a charming underground bar nestled in the heart of Mayfair. This hidden gem offers a refined and sophisticated atmosphere without pretence. Stepping into Qualingos feels like stepping into a secret world, with its dimly lit interior and intimate seating arrangements. The bar boasts a tasteful decor, combining classic elegance with modern touches.

The Mayfair bar has a well-curated selection of drinks, ranging from classic cocktails to premium spirits, all expertly crafted by their skilled mixologists. Whether you prefer a timeless martini or a unique concoction, you'll find a libation to suit your taste.

There's also a great roster of live entertainment underpinning the bar most nights, so you can catch dinner and a show, all in the same space.

What makes MNKY HSE distinctive? Is it the slightly antagonist approach to vowels? The combination of vibsey atmosphere, Latin food and experimental cocktails? The iconic Dover Street location? Whilst we are confounded by the vowel thing, it’s probably a combination of all three.

Dark, discreet and unapologetically playing to the Mayfair elite, MNKY HSE is a half-hidden den of excess and atmosphere. Not bad for a bar that can’t spell.

Benjamin Franklin famously wrote that ‘in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes’. Well, had ol’ Mr. $100 Bill ever had the fortune to find himself scrolling listlessly through London Instagram one hungover morning, he would have amended the quip: death, taxes and seeing countless photos of Sketch.

The gem of the Mayfair cafe and bar scene, Sketch has charmed the hearts of many an amateur photographer with its striking decor, buckets of champagne and, yes, egg-shaped toilets.

Welcome to the weird and wonderful world of Mr Fogg’s Residence. Inspired by the famous (and fictional) explorer Phileas J. Fogg, Mr Fogg’s Residence is the perfect place for adventure-hungry and thirsty travellers.

Find your way to Mayfair's Bruton Lane and come on in. You can’t miss it - It’s the perfect balance of British and kitsch. Pass by a few of Mr Fogg’s knickknacks, (spot the hot air balloon and floating bicycle) and find yourself a seat.

Explore the drinks menu and choose from adventurous libations that’ll transport you from Hong Kong to Shanghai to Yokohama.

Ready for an adventure? The doors at Mr Fogg’s Residence are always open.

What is Mayfair without Claridge’s? The iconic hotel bar is without a doubt, one of the most popular Mayfair bars, and for good reason.

Designed by the award-winning interior design and architecture studio, David Collins Studio, Claridge’s Bar is every bit the luxury bar you would expect. Think modern, refined and elegant.

With glasses of vintage champagne and prohibition-era whiskey just an order away, a drink is never just a drink at Claridge’s. It’s luxury, and sometimes that’s all you really want. Visit Brook Street for your own little bit of Mayfair history, and an experience that is worth every penny.

The Connaught Bar needs no introduction. In case you did need one though, you can find it on Carlos Place, in its namesake hotel. With an “impressions”-inspired drinks menu, original Connaught gin and more canapés than you can imagine, this Mayfair bar is one you can’t miss.

The first thing you’ll find out about The Connaught is that they take each and every bar experience very seriously.

That’s all the more reason they’ve been chosen as The World’s Best Bar in 2021 by The World’s 50 Best Bars, the second best adjudicator of bars on the internet. So sit by the marble bar or in one of their plush leather seats, and be prepared to happily spend the rest of your evening here.

At The Donovan Bar, elegance is the name of the game. When you arrive you’ll be greeted with a signature green decor that is stylish, sophisticated and hard to miss. Expect nothing less from a bar whose namesake is fashion photographer Terence Donovan.

Stain glass, black and white stills, and plush green velvet seats keep you comfortable while you wait. Choose from any of the original drinks, specially made by one of the world’s leading bartenders, Salvatore Calabrese. It’s a master mix made just for you.

Take a seat and sip in style in Donovan’s own “Naughty Corner” if you dare. Late-night drinks have never looked so good.

Right in the centre of Mayfair, you’ll find Hush. The Instagrammable bar is a Mayfair favourite. It’s no wonder why, they’ve got contemporary style down to a tee.

Sit by the bar as one of their bartenders makes you a new creation (fancy a Scarlet Letter?) or take it outside for alfresco drinks. Ever had drinks under the stars? No, you should try it sometime.

It’s Mayfair’s worst-kept secret but one we’re happy to share. All that’s left is for you to make your way down to Lancashire Court.

Chat, chill and sip away - just remember to put your phone down once in a while…

Tucked away on Upper Grosvenor Street, is Dickie’s Bar, the former hunting ground turned favourite local haunt (now owned by Irish chef Richard “Dickie” Corrigan). In true hunting fashion, Dickie’s Bar is decked out in scores of wood panelling and cosy brown leather seats.

The rest of the decor is where the fun really starts. Silver wallpaper and contemporary art make for the perfect mix of traditional and modern, a nod to the history with just enough hints of personality. Where else would you find a stag head and artwork from Angus Fairhurst and Jim Lambie?

With an 80-person capacity, Dickie’s is the best Mayfair bar for birthdays, after-work drinks and parties.

Picture this - a few drinks with friends, or a date, at an impossibly stylish bar. Now imagine that - but you’re on the 28th floor in the Hilton, overlooking the entire city. That’s 10° Sky Bar.

Drink and dine to your hearts’ content and wait for golden hour - that’s where the magic happens. The only thing better than a panoramic view of London is a sunset to go along with it (after all, that’s where 10° Sky Bar gets its name from).

Dinner, drinks and the city at your fingertips. That’s what it’s really all about. It’s time to take happy hour to new heights.

Down the winding steps of Ollie Dabbous and Hedonism Wines’ HIDE restaurant, you’ll quickly find your way to The Bar Below at 85 Piccadilly.

Luxe brown panelling, brown chairs and exposed brick really balance the contemporary and traditional, in what feels like, and probably is, the most stylish basement you’ll find in Mayfair.

Flavour is the name of the game at Below. Whether it’s sweet and heavy, light and fresh, or bitter, Below has got you covered. Then, head down to the cellar for your choice of wine.

It’s intimate and the perfect date night spot, any day of the year.

Travel back to the 1920s and step into The Luggage Room, an actual (former) luggage room somewhere in the Marriott Hotel on Grosvenor Square.

The dark wood and marble floors make you feel like you’ve stepped into a secret speakeasy. It’s sleek, stylish and pure class. And with more drinks than you can shake a stick at, there’s no place you’d rather be, and why would you? It’s the cat’s pyjamas.

Choose from any of the expertly made drinks and soak it all in - the atmosphere, the company and some of the best drinks in Mayfair. Gatsby’s got nothing on this.

What’s better than drinks? Music and drinks. The Terrace Bar at Chesterfield Mayfair is a truly classy affair. Nestled in Charles Street, The Terrace Bar is a piano bar with a difference.

Settle down on one of their signature green armchairs, and choose from drinks, dishes or tasting experiences, which are experimental, to say the least. Sip in style and listen to the resident pianist, John Hudson on Thursdays to Sundays, and a selection of London’s top musicians on Fridays and Saturdays.

Explore wine and cheese pairings, sample rum or experience interesting G&T pairings. There’s a bar, and then there’s The Terrace.

Heritage meets luxury at Coburg Bar. The Connaught Hotel’s bar offering comes recommended by, well everyone. Relax in a comfy armchair and watch the hours go by - you’re in pretty decent company (if we do say so ourselves).

Whether it’s breakfast, a quick lunch or a late-night dinner, the doors at Coburg are (almost) always open. And with more drinks than you can count, it only makes sense to have a drink (or two). There’s wine, liqueurs, and spirits all on tap.

Go on - dine, drink and gossip as you sit by the fireplace. Take it all in. You’ll be here for a while.

Chairs you just sink into. An inviting marble bar. Low lighting that is intimate and cosy yet never intimidating. You’re in a world of your own at The Dandy. It’s a refreshing change from the busy Mayfair streets.

Take a quick detour in your day and come into The Mayfair Townhouse, where you’ll find enough food and drink to satisfy (and excite) your tastebuds and keep you occupied for hours to come.

Fancy a drink? You’re in luck - they’ve got plenty. Choose from a selection of wines or something specially made for (just ask a Dandy bartender).

Now, what’ll it be? Old Cuban or The Earl in Mayfair?

You’ve never seen gin done quite like this. Nestled in St. Marks, in what was once an old church is Jim & Tonic - the gin bar with a difference.

On your way in, you’ll soon realise why. You’re surrounded by lush plants, stain glass windows and structures so ornate you can’t help but feel a little awestruck.

Don’t stare too long though, there’s a matter of drinks to get to. If it’s gin you’re after, you’re in luck. They specialise in all sorts, from the fruity and floral to the sour and dry.

Meet them at the altar at Mercato Mayfair.

You know what they say– great minds think, and drink, alike. That’s never been truer than at Manetta’s, Flemings Hotel’s very own bar.

Some of London’s literary greats found a home here at the iconic Mayfair location. Now, almost a century later, it’s holding down its spot as one of the best bars in Mayfair.

Come in - and find the stylishly simple Art Deco-era decor that feels like a world away. Sit back, relax and take a sip of one of the literary-inspired cocktails (Parker Pyne anyone?) or a glass of a favourite red.

Cheers! You’re in great company at Manetta’s.

Take a break from the day and step into Mr Fogg’s Secret Garden. It’s a whimsical world away, that really does make you feel like you’re in your own fantasy film.

With flower-lined walls, garden chairs and a refreshing drinks menu that tastes as good as it looks, it’s no wonder it’s a firm favourite. Take your pick of Fogg’s Favourites, or any of the wines, beers or ciders, for sips under the sky.

And since it hosts between 20 - 110 people, what better place to hold a summer party (or three)? Drinks, great weather and even better company. Summer really does start here.

The colourful decor at Mayfair's The Loop stands in a sea of minimalist chic, and if nothing it’ll keep your spirits up. With booth-style seating, neon signs and a lit dance floor you can’t miss, it’s right up your alley if you’re up for a night of drinking and dancing.

Play, brunch, dance, and if you can’t get enough, there are three floors that hold up to 1000 people.

Right on Mayfair’s bustling South Molton Street is Jak’s Mayfair.

The converted townhouse is both quirky and homely with frequent nods to the city (spot the Union Jack by the till), which is fitting when you consider just how popular South Molton Street is, with tourists and locals alike.

There are four floors but since you’re here for bars you can find that on the lower ground.

If you can swing it, grab yourself a seat by the huge window that overlooks the street for some drinks and people-watching. Or wander over to one of Jak’s two lounges, and well, lounge. At a 150-person capacity, Jak’s is ready for any private hire events you have.

Chances are, you’ve heard of the Hard Rock Cafe. It’s pretty hard to miss (if in doubt, just look for the sign).

It’s the perfect place for music lovers and pop culture connoisseurs. Rock fans, you’ll be in your element. The bar is full of rock memorabilia. Think signed guitars, framed newspaper snippets, copies of Melody Maker, an original poster for the WHO - and to top it all off, a door from Apple Studios, signed by The Beatles.

It’s Mayfair, but with a little edge. Bottoms up and let the good times roll!