ATTN London women - Cool place to meet in London?

[TheClitterati]

I am meeting a woman I do business with but haven't yet met in person. She is visiting London from South Korea and I would like to take her somewhere fantastic for a drink & a chat. So not too rowdy.

I live outside of London but will get the train in. We are meeting late afternoon in December.

I was hoping to reserve the SkyBar but I can't get a reservation.

Back up plan is a trip up the Thames and back on the Clippers with a drink at the O2 or somewhere. Or perhaps the Christmas lights?

I've not lived in London for several years now - so where would be a fab "London" London place to take her?

to add its the woman I am meetings first time in London

Afternoon tea - Claridges or the Ritz for maximum atmosphere. Fortnum’s is next door to the Ritz and there your client could even combine afternoon tea with a bit of Christmas shopping, and it’s obviously a lot cheaper.

The Ned is also a good shout. The food is very average but the architecture is great, and its location allows for a trip to St Paul’s.

I’m not sure how low-key is too low key, but this cocktail bar in a bookshop just near the Ritz is beautiful. Great cocktail menu and it feels very European and sophisticated. And it’s easily combined with a visit to F&M with its beautiful Christmas displays or the Royal Academy.https://www.maisonassouline.com/

I'm loving The Ned & Maison Assouline - will investigate both further & I've never heard of either of them.

I think Sushi Samba is fab, with great views over London, good food and cocktails.

If you want somewhere really calm - like a hug shutting out the outside world, the bar at the Connaught Hotel is bliss. Far less flashy and trashy than Claridges and less uptight than the Ritz or The Savoy. The Oxo Tower bar and Skylon on the South Bank both have great views over the river.

One Aldwych

I like Burt&Co inside the Kimpton Fitzroy Hotel in Russell Square

Or Sketch in Conduit Street

Cahoots is good fun! Sort of wartime Speakeasy type thing in an old tube station. Great cocktails (including in jugs which are Winstin Churchill / Vera Lynn heads). You have to book and you get a secret password 🙂. Off Carnaby St so you can look at the lights there too.

that does soudn fun. Going to look into booking there.

we have a gorgeous wee speakeasy in the town I live in - it is good fun! you need prior arrangements and get a code etc

I am so glad you mentioned this. DS (adult) went there once with a friend and was raving about it but couldn't remember its name or exactly where it was (or didn't want his uncool mum to know! )
It looks fantastic. Going to book it for a drink at Christmas if there is any room.

Scarfes Bar - Rosewood Holborn
The Ned
Connaught Bar
Swift Soho
The Painter’s Room - Claridges