London advice -drinks at the Savoy ?

[Whatwouldnanado]

Country mice heading to London in the new year to see Paddington. It’s a surprise trip so thought it would be nice to plan (pub type) dinner earlier followed by a drink somewhere special near the theatre. Can ordinary mortals just rock up at the American bar? All suggestions welcome.

Yes, a group of friends and I regularly used that bar after an annual do at the Savoy. It was bloody expensive compared with anywhere else, though!

The Coal Hole pub next door (assuming it’s still there) was a favourite, too.

You can turn up - don’t think you can book a table if you’re not staying in the hotel so you can’t be sure if a table. As pp said, it’s very expensive so be prepared.

other possibilities are the Bar Americaine at Zedel, Ham Yard Hotel or Christopher’s.

You can turn up but it’s quite dull

zedel (mumsnet favourite, i think they all have shares🤣) And Ham Yard a bit of a trek. better off at Covent Garden, it’s across the road

Or just accross the river Lyaness or the Bar at Skylon are good for fancy cocktails and great views.

Oh and the American bar has a smart casual dress code. Not sure how rigorously it is enforced these days.

Yes why not! Just be careful not to accidentally order the £10k cocktail!

American bar at Savoy might be full (as could any of them to be fair), so you might have to wait / have a fall-back plan. For us we love the live music you get there

Bloody hell! Some people really must have more money than sense 🙄

I think it’s pretty dull for the cost. I’d just go around the corner to Gordon’s on Villiers St. Or maybe the Nell Gwynne?

I would go to the Corinthia, which is just off Whitehall. Not usually very busy either.

Do ring Zedel to book, just in case.

The Coal Hole is still there

Yes we have been several times it’s great!

It’s fabulous. But you need a mortgage!

£10k 😲

Its get very busy - might be a challenge to get a table.

Another suggestion the bar at the Royal Opera House - out on the terrace with a view over Covent Garden ( again gets busy)

We have been to Zedel a couple of times. Will look at the Coal Hole then and save Savoy for another trip when we have more time.

Yes but check if you can extend your mortgage before you go.

If you want cocktails, I recommend The Alchemist on St. Martin's Lane (about 10 minutes' walk). They make these spectacular cocktails up in front of you at the bar.

Yes we like Zedel, will go there another night. Have booked the Coal Hole. Thank you.

I love the American bar and yes you can just rock up, though it's not got loads of seats.

My favourite place for drinks is Sketch on Conduit St, which is off Regent St. It’s very stylish, fab drinks and atmosphere.

Most of the cocktails are between £20 and £30- is that considered expensive in London in a place like The Savoy? Genuinely no idea as I love overseas.

There are far, far nicer places to go for a drink. All of Covent Garden is only. Few minutes walk from the Strand, and Soho not much further.

There are a limited number of tables available to book at the American bar. On both times I've been in with a reservation I've seen people (including residents) turned away as full. It's nice as a one of experience. You do get some nice snacks with your drink. I'd recommend Gordon's just round the corner a million times more than the American bar. It's bloody lovely and super special