The bar had a moody yet upbeat atmosphere which is such a fun way to kick off a night out in London. At times it did feel quite loud inside, but the energy definitely added to the vibe! The drinks were creative and offered fun, unique twists on classic cocktails. Service was great.. she was attentive, especially with refills and checking in on our needs. While the drinks were a bit pricey compared to other bars in the area, the atmosphere and quality made it a solid stop for a night out. read more

I went with a group of 8 girls and we were able to find a nice booth to fit us all comfortably! It was a really fun spot for us to all enjoy a cocktail we liked and hangout before going to a busier bar. They had a lot of cocktails to choose from but also can make anything you want pretty much, a lot of us got the espresso martini and it was so good read more

The Bar With No Name - Cocktails - Cocktail Bars Near Me - London, XGL

What a lovely little space! We were recommended this spot by our airbnb host and it was a blast. This moody cocktail space offers a variety of drinks and simple meals, a great addition to a night out! I had the espresso martini, which was not great, but it also wasnt on the menu (so ill take that as maybe they didnt have the correct ingredients). But my friends has dirty martini's and loved them! We also had a wonderful server who continually filled our waters and re-upped our drinks. Hopeful to come back when visiting again! read more

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This place is great. Really friendly staff, knowledgeable about different drinks, and the night we went they had someone playing piano. Very cool ambiance and environment. Would definitely go again. read more

Next-level cocktails. Perfect service. Oozing dopeness. Kindness to strangers: Pace yourself, these drinks are stiff! And you won't know it til it's too late bc they're so balanced! read more

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Nice cocktails but the seating situation at 69 Colebrooke Row is so not conducive to easy speaking. Wedged in between a jazz band and a set of stairs occupied by waiting patrons is no way to enjoy a drink, no matter how delightful its ingredients or mixing are! I mean, what's the use in making a reservation if you'll be - this close - to sitting in a stranger's lap? read more

Awesome speakeasy in Islington also known as "The Bar With No Name." Everyone usually associates this place by its address so make sure to know it before venturing out. Entrance is through a corner door along a rather quiet part of Colebrook Row. For an easier way of finding its location, look for either a lantern with the number "69" on it or a red awning marked with the Martini logo. The bar itself is quite small so reservation is highly suggested. Came on a whim, however, and was luckily accommodated by the staff. Dimmed lighting and soft jazz playing in the background made the ambiance perfect for an intimate date night. We also thought it was pretty dope how we were seated right in the corner with an upright piano as our table. Mixologists certainly put great thought into creating the bar's menu as majority of the cocktails were relatively unique. Decided to go for the Port Habana while she enjoyed the Coral Fizz. Drinks were well-made but not as stiff as I would've liked especially since each cocktail costs £9.50. To our surprise, the server brought out complimentary Prarie Oysters which happen to be their own version of deconstructed Bloody Mary. Menu also changes every season so make sure to watch out for their new concoctions. Overall, 69 Colebrooke Row is one of those few bars that everybody should check out in London. From atmosphere to libations, there is very little not to like from this joint. I will definitely be back next time I make it out around the area. read more

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A very easy 5* for very very many reasons. If you've read Miss Liz I's review who I came with (and wrote hers far more promptly than I did) she's pretty much covered them, but to give these guys another well deserved high review, here they are; 1) The setting; chilled and jazzy, with clean decor, neatly themed, and classy. 2) The drinks; There are classic and quirks, all expertly mixed, sat at the bar and seeing them at work, they know their stuff, and they do make off menu too, they don't only know the list and nothing more, whilst bantering, we got discussing last words, and one of the charming chaps happily whipped me one up in a flash. 3) The food; assembled and created with the same care as the cocktails, a lot of them very delicate and clever, particularly the prairie oysters. Certainly worth a try. 4) The staff; probably the best bit about the place,not only do they know their stuff with drink, and food, they know their stuff with people. I witnessed the banter with one of their local suppliers, with us and with other customers, kind, caring, funny, attentive genuinely excellent people. They also don't allow idiots, some laddish middle aged man took it upon their entitled selves to decide that I must really fancy a go with someone my dad's age, we politely rejected, and the second they were offensive and trying to stop us leaving, one of the guys was around the front of the bar, calmly and firmly telling them that that isn't behaviour they tolerate. Great for dates and catch ups, get on down there. read more

This place is a big nope for me. While it tries to give the appearance of a swanky cocktail bar (staff in crisp white jackets, dim lighting, music playing) this place is way, way too crowded. As in, there are physically too many chairs and tables scrunched up together so that you are within about 4 inches of your neighbor. The service isn't great and frankly for such a small place the music is way too loud which makes everyone else talk louder which means you're almost yelling to your date sitting just across from you. The drinks aren't that great - the only standout is the Rye Rye - everything else is just "meh". The only positive thing I can say about this place is that once you order your drinks they do come out quickly. read more

No muss no fuss speakeasy. Made a last minute res for Sunday night and had no problems w availability. Walked through an open, unmanned door and was greeted sweetly by a white coated long maned bespectacled fella who confirmed my name and showed me to a table. The live jazz trio was a nice touch but given the space (10 tables, 300 sf dimension), volume was an issue (my partner ended up sitting beside me so that we could hear ourselves). We had 3 rounds in 90 mins - each trying something different off the house cocktail menu each time. At £11 a pop, I found the value reasonable given the arcane ingredients, obvious care in preparation and overall uniqueness (for reference I had the vinus lupus - a white wine honey and chamomile mixture, death in Venice - a Campari variation, and serafin - a tequila and ginger beer kicker which was my favourite). Would recommend for it's authenticity, lack of pretension and highly attentive service, and yummy bevvies. read more

The space itself is pretty small. It was full when we arrived and we were a bit cramped, but fortunately the table next to us left shortly after. They really do squeeze you around small tables though and the tables are really near each other, so possibly a place best for 2s. They have a piano in the corner and apparently great live music at points (based on the other reviews) though, perhaps unsurprisingly, not on a Tuesday night. Drinks wise, I had a super frothy rum based drink with a Guinness reduction ('St James' Gate) which i loved! Also really enjoyed the 'Barbershop Fizz' - Gin, soda, lemony stuff and more; super refreshing. Also served in a cool glass that says barber shop and with a paper straw. Great drinks and service make this a winner. read more

The Bar With No Name - Barbershop Fizz - Cocktail Bars Near Me - London, XGL

Book your table. Choose wisely, pace your consumption. Soak up the atmosphere, whilst savouring your expertly crafted beverages. Staff, service and ambiance spot on. read more

- bar with no name; even if you know the address you might not find it because you think the house must be empty/uninhabited - very friendly and helpful staff (knows everything about the drinks and the taste/flavors) - small bar (reservation recommended); seating is a little bit uncomfortable; but atmosphere is great - Tony Conigliaro is one of the UK`s pioneering drinks creators: that`s why the drinks are not just drinks but drinking experiences - not that many, but unusual/eccentric drinks on the menu such as Prairie Oyster Tomato yolk, Horseradish Vodka, Oloroso Sherry, Shallots, Pepper Sauce, Celery Salt and Micro Herbs (9.50 GBP); I also loved the non-alcoholic cocktail: Lime, Orgeat and Vichy Water (4.50 GBP) which was sour but in the end not that sour at all (as I said a drinking experience even with the non-alcoholic drinks!) Highly recommended!!! It is all about drinks! read more

The Bar With No Name - Cocktail Bars Near Me - London, XGL

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"come meet us out!!" "where?" "well.... err..... it doesn't have a name...." And let's keep it that way. I probably shouldn't be writing this, and you probably shouldn't be reading this. The establishment found at 69 Colebrooke Road is a well-kept secret and for good reason, it's a quiet place to stop that isn't tacky, trashy or trying too hard (cough cough... upper street...) Fantastic service, sultry decor, and the satisfaction of knowing that randoms off the street probably won't be popping in for a stag party... this is where you need to be when you don't want to be where you usually are. If that makes sense, then you'll know what I mean. Confused? I hope so. read more

The people sitting next to me at 69 Colebrooke Row were incredibly stupid; they were clattering on about James Bond as if he were the last word in cocktail sophistication and apparently they had just come from a good feed in GBK, the restaurant chain that gives Burger King a good name. Naturally I threw my perfectly mixed martini in their face and stormed out. Apart from the lenient door policy, everything else here was super. Great drinks at a good price (£8 for all cocktails), although the labcoats on the barmen hinted at an experimental side that was not apparent in the finished article. These were awesome cocktails, but they weren't a brave new world of boozing or anything. Amuse-bouche were nicely done, the chap on the joanna were banging out some first-rate ragtime and the company was pretty great too. Perfect for a date: book ahead and ask for one of the seats nearest the bar beside the large window. The ones against the other wall are a little cramped and prone to encroachment. If you're here summer 2010, order the eleganté. read more

Small space that is packed with a punch. I almost didn't find this very small corner bar in Islington but thankfully I did as I had such a delightful evening there. On a dark night in the pouring rain this place felt cozy and relaxing. Think private club speak easy with low light, buzzing conversation and soothing house cocktails. You are only allowed inside if there is a space to sit which actually makes for a stress free bar experience with no one pushing you around nor does the place get packed. Attentive service, and the unique cocktail menu really makes for a distinctively pleasant time. read more

They don't kick you out when you slosh your drink around. How great is that? Or maybe it was just because in my 3-piece pin striped suit, fob watch casually tucked into a vest pocket, and a fedora (a full on proper one purchased from a real hatter...not one of those cheapo ones from the tourist stall) perched jauntily (always wanted to use that word in a sentence...just the sound of it in my head makes me smile) on my head made me look like the place's mascot and that would be bad for business right? So 69 Colebrooke Row is a proper 1920s speakeasy joint. It's not quite like the Boardwalk Empire clubs that are packed with hundreds of people. This place is lucky to fit in a couple dozen on a good day so seating can be a challenge. Which is why in hindsight I'm surprised our group of 8 managed to get a table after walking in on the spur of the moment after our 1920s excursion at the Candlelight Club. I credit my friend Max B who seems to know every bartender in London. Anyways, I distinctly remember sticking with my standard Manhattan for the night and it going down an absolute dream. I've had more Manhattans in the last two weeks than shots of tequila in the last two years (which is saying something) and fancy myself something of an expert at the last Yelp Elite Whiskey Masterclass at Blue's Kitchen (review to come as soon as my memory returns). This one was worth every penny my date paid. Yep, that's right, a beautiful drink paid for by an even more gorgeous girl who decided I was her choice (yeah I don't get it either). Gents, I tell you, life doesn't get much better than that. Where was I? Ah yes, the booze. So my Manhattan was slowly soaking into my brain and jacket (remember I said I sloshed a little?). Not a problem, a new one was graciously offered up by our waitress as she thought she may have bumped me. Did she? No idea, but I appreciate the customer service. We stayed till close, having a great time sipping our cocktails, chatting to friends, and in general enjoying the atmosphere. Overall, on my speakeasy search, this could well be the top (it's a tough call with Night Jar) in the UK (Violet Hour in Chicago still wins my heart). Get going, get looking, and with a bit of luck you'll be seated soon sipping a delicious spirit. Damn that's a lot of s sounds....ssssssssmoking! read more

Can I make a cocktail my last meal on Earth? I'm not sure what my caramel infused tequila, honey water and lemon twisted cocktail was called, but it will forever be named "10 sips to Cielo" in my heart. This is the most lusciously divine cocktail den in London. And I live about 10 steps away. 10 steps to 10 sips of heaven... I like that. read more

It's a struggle to find, but when you see a lantern above a door you'll know you're in the right place. New York Prohibition era is the vibe, with a Piano in the corner which they break out on Jazz nights, (Thursdays and Sundays). Tony is the dashing mixologist behind one of London's best new hangouts. Watching T-bone and his team fix you a drink is reminiscent of a potions class with Professor Snape - no idea what they're actually doing back there - but the results are a masterclass in cocktail making. He's got it all covered, from putting Horseradish Vodka in your Bloody Mary, to charging our Almond Blossom with Proscecco. His drink making is almost as ground breaking as his dance moves. Plus if you're nice to him, he may offer you a tour of his lab upstairs... don't worry - this isn't his chat up line, it's a genuine lab. The place only seats 35, so don't turn up on Thursday / Friday / Saturday and expect to get a table for 6. read more

Love the current incarnation of this space. Killer cocktails, effortless cool and charming staff. It really is just that good. Go. read more

I went all the way to London to find the Perfect Manhattan. Tony Conigliaro & His team have created drinking nirvana. I have been to my share of cocktail lounges, and I don't know that I've ever had a progression of drinks so well conceptualized (they have an actual lab) and executed. Not too mention unbelievable service. Oh, and the killer live jazz. Gonzalez - Made me love tequila again Almond Ramos - A beautiful drink to end the night, amazing texture. Somerset Sour - A perfect fall cocktail. Thanksgiving in a cup. The Blush - Champagne is great for mixing Manhattan - Aged Bourbon, Perfect Balance Silver Shadow - Named after the car. Gin Wet Martini with silver essence mixed in. Smell the coaster which has been sprayed with essence of leather, and then drink to recreate the feeling of the vehicle. Vintage El Presidente - Yes Tony, yours was better. :) God I wish this place was in New York. read more

When I was first in the city, a friend and I were wandering around the alleys and curving mews of Angel when we came across this small and unassuming looking bar. Unfortunately, we had spent too long getting lost so we did not have the opportunity to go in at that time. However, last night I finally had the opportunity to visit 69 Colbrooke Row. It was at the end of the night after an evening of socialising and carrying on (thank you yelp and Zanna), and this place was perfect for enjoying a quiet nightcap with good friends. The atmosphere is quiet small and cozy with a few tables that are conducive to close intimate conversations. The cocktails are delicious and well crafted. They are a bit pricey, but worth it if you are looking for a cocktail made with care and quality ingredients. read more

I think this little bar is really something special. Its intimate (i don't think it could hold more than 50 people at most) and the drinks are incredible. I asked the barman to serve me my new favourite cocktail without any more details..and he did! read more

SMALL space, so on a date, or max 3 people to be comfortable and feast your eyes on the rest of the patrons, serving staff, and the pundits behind bars.... well one, bar. lovely space, dark enough to invite cozines, and intimacy. you dress up you go, and you sip on gin martinis, and other sexy cocktails while discussing the latest in fashion, politics, or music. MUSIC... some really classic jazz in the background, and the piano in the right hand corner that is more than just a piece... it's a statement, it's an inspiring patron demanding your attention to the very finest details that 69 colebrooke row offers... the amuse bouche!!! get it the cocktails rock! my friend rocked! i was ON for the night!!! read more

Wandered into this place with friend who had come here some evening recently before. First time impression upon leaving the place. "Borderline trying too hard" Almost like a theme bar for the upper classy vintage enthusiast. The bartenders had coats. LIke old school white waiter coat things. I actually liked those. One of the bartenders had a ridiculously thick french accent leaning on the side of bad impression of a french person. But that was more amusing than a negative thing really. Just thought I'd point it out. I think it was the intimate setting combined with the clientele that evening that didn't do it for me. The place was full and everyone around us seemed a little too hoity toity for me and my hanging out jeans. They take reservations because of previously mentioned smallness. The reservation holders/placecard thingies are vintage accessories with a playing card on them. Like a fedora with an 8 of diamonds slipped on. Or some leather gloves with the 4 of hearts. It's the little details that make me want to come back and try them again when Im more dressed up. Oh yeah and the tequila based drink I had was good but not "omg" inducing. Which I need to have happen with expensive fancy drinks. read more

One of the best bars in the world? I respectfully disagree. Drinks are solid, and the Prarie Oyster is a classy (albeit expensive) way to down some shots before heading out. Loved the innovative tomato infused yolk and presentation of the ~5 quid savory "drink". Note that it is NOT available on Sundays. Flamenco, sugar infused sherry and champagne, wasn't bad but nothing about this place struck me as unique and special. Its dimly lit and cozy, but I wouldn't say it's the most romantic venue. Make a reservation a few days in advance, but they do take walk ins. read more

This find is tucked away on a quiet residential street just off Upper Street, but inside it is buzzy and as popular as ever. It's best to book ahead, especially on a Friday or Saturday night, and the bar even wants you to text them if you are running a bit late. Inside, there are maybe 20 seats, with no standing room, and with live music it gets quite loud so perhaps not the easiest place to have conversation with more than 2 or 3 other people. We had a booking for 9 pm and you only get a table for an hour and a half, and people have to sit/stand on the stairs to wait for their tables as there is literally no other standing room. As for the drinks, they definitely know their stuff as they distill a lot of their own alcohol. I tried the Terroir, which has a taste I can only describe as earthy... it is interesting but not exactly my preferred type of cocktail (it's strong, is like a smooth alcohol, but I was chasing that with water). For my second drink I got something off-menu that the waiter suggested, where they mix an apricot syrup with the preferred liquor of your choice (I chose vodka). I really enjoyed that drink and I think it's so great that the waiter is able to come up with drinks to meet your preferences. They were also very attentive with refilling water... and really, I can't think of another place where I've had a waiter at a bar... definitely a unique experience! read more

Came here for drinks and was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere. The drinks were not cheap but they were well made and the place is fairly small. It's not a true speakeasy but has enough mystique around it to give it that vibe. There's live music on some nights that makes it difficult to have conversation. But they've got good cocktails to make you feel okay about loudly talking over a table. I think I would like to try more cocktails on their menu. The other point for this place is definitely the cool factor because it seeps through the clientele as well. Everyone I saw was fairly well dressed and had a vibe about them that complemented the chicness of the bar itself. But there's no air of pompousness that usually accompanies the hip spots, which makes this an ideal place for a few drinks. read more

I hope I don't get stoned for this review because I really really wanted to like this place. It has an amazing decor, the bartenders wear lab coats like proper mixologists and it's conveniently close to where I live. However, drinks-wise, this place needed a little less mixer and a little more substance. My companions' drinks tasted like midori sour mix and my old fashioned was too citrusy sweet. Alas, a disappointing blow as I work my way down my cocktail bar list especially since everyone else seemed to have loved this place? If you do decide to go, you should probably make a reservation as the place was extremely packed by 10 pm. read more

Absolutely loved the drinks we had here. had to reserve on line as it's pretty crowded. You only officially get a 1.5hr seating, however we overstayed a bit & they were fine to accommodate until the next reservation arrived. We had the Hinoki. A Johnny Walker based drink that was smoky & light while plenty boozy, as well as the Fig Leaf Collins. Both were completely delicious, but we kept returning to the Hinoki for reorders. I did come b/c it was listed on Time Out as a north London speakeasy option, however there wasn't anything too authentically speakeasy about the vibe: big name on the marquee outside, lots of open windows all around, no sneaky/secret/fun elements to speak of, but a great bar nonetheless. read more

My trip to this place is a story that was 4 years in the making. tl;dr, it was worth the wait! You should arrange a stop in, have a drink, and be happy. So here's the story. I went to a conference in North Carolina in late-2013. One of the sponsors had a representative there, and I ended up at a table with this gentlemen during the lunch break. During some chit-chat, he mentioned The bar with no name ... by the wrong address! BUT it was close enough, and he raved about the place, and suggested that if I ever find myself in London, I should go there immediately, order a rhubarb gimlet, and be happy in my life. Then he left, and I was thusly left with this goal. I corrected the address (apparently there isn't a 69 Cockburn Lane anywhere in London), and bookmarked it, hoping to one day have the opportunity to visit. In 2015, I was in London for my first visit, but didn't have time to go there. My second chance came this year (in fact, last week), and I finally dropped in. The place is fit for locals, and not in any touristy area, which is great. Respecting this, I tried to stay as low-key as the establishment, since it was nice and I tried to be similarly nice and chill. The staff greeted us warmly and found a table for us (2) despite not having a reservation. Since it was so small, I took this to be a good sign, and some luck. Nice and intimate space, but pretty small. We were given menus and I was saddened to see there was nothing resembling a gimlet on there. Had I missed my chance?! I ordered the Licorice Whisky Sour, and she ordered the White Almond Bellini. They were delicious. The hour was late, and as it quieted down, we talked about that drink again. Should I attempt to order it? I thought to order another drink... this time, the Manhattan Steele Corp. But, I decided to risk it and ask the waiter for that gimlet. With a bit of thought, he slipped away, and came back with the drink! No fuss or pretension for us, and great, prompt service for our drinks. Was it worth the wait? Considering how long I had this on the list, I was satisfied for sure. We almost missed out because of not having a reservation, but a mid-week drink was good for us. You should go and have a drink. Remember to make a reservation, though. read more

Best cocktail bar I have EVER been to in London and that's saying a lot. Most of the cocktail bars in London are so far up their own asses. But The Bar with no name is a diamond in a sea of costume jewellery. My first (and there will be many) visit to the bar was on a date. The date was so-so but the cocktails were to die for. The bar staff were above and beyond attentive. They actually listened to you when you fancied something in particular, suggested some amazing cocktails and were always on the ball....I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this place. I'm not spreading the word, if I do someone will let some ignorant knob know and they will invite the rest of the Upper St/Essex Rd plebs. Peaz read more

Let me start off by saying that I really wanted to like this place, I had read the reviews and heard wonderful things from people I knew. The location: The outside is nothing to look at, and doesn't give off a speakeasy vibe like I had imagined in my mind. It is indeed very small inside, as others have indicated, and the music is very loud and you have to shout at the people next to you and the wait staff. There was a man paying the piano in the corner at one point, but you would have never known due to the other noise level. There was alot of people standing around, and lingering on the stairs which was very distracting, I would have assumed such a small place with such a good reputation would have had a no standing policy. The cocktails: Average. The menu had some interesting combinations that I was excited to try, but when they came out they were too sweet and not strong enough for my liking. The prices are great, and very affordable for London standards. I must admit that the Prarie Oyster is quite imaginative, its a little shot served in a shell that is the consistency of an egg yolk but is made of tomatoes and such. An experience but I wouldnt be returning for it, due to the fact it was 5.50 for about 1ml of alcohol and the shallots on it were overbearing. The service: The service was very quick, and the staff were friendly and dressed in all white like butlers which was a great touch. One thing to note though - a reservation here is limited to 1 1/2 hours, which is maybe why the drinks come out so quickly as they kick you out soon after. Overall, I wanted to love this place, but don't. I am not sure why people compare this place to Nightjar, Happiness Forgets, Callooh Callay, or Evans and Peel. For me, I would take any of those places over this one and would spend the entire evening enjoying their creations. This place... not so much. read more

We used to be in love. I used to swoon when thinking of you. Your name made my heart flutter. It stands to reason that I wanted to show you off and I should have known that you would have been too busy to give me your full attention at 10pm on a Friday. I reserved a table and tried to recreate those moments we had early in our relationship, but I realized they always took place early in the evening on a school night. I learned that some of your classiness erodes during the weekend. My right shoulder was touching a girl dressed in boxy Esprit sweatshirt and leggings who reeked of cigarettes. When she went out for another, she managed a full face-plant into the door. My left shoulder rubbed a girl with a voice louder than a megaphone. I was treated to stories about watching WWF with her brothers as a child. I needed to go to the loo, but didn't want to brave the stairs. I would have had to dodge a goth girl who I learned was not wearing anything under her fishnets as she perched on a step while making out with her beau. Further up the stairs was a heroin chic looking chick with her tongue sabering the throat of her bearded hipster counterpart. Maybe I've become a prude. Maybe I'm getting old. But I just can't share you with these people. Next time I try to rekindle our love it will be around 6pm on a Wednesday. read more

It's a small gem really. Too small, but I guess this is a beauty in it. It has this 1920s atmosphere to it - given the mixologists (yes, mixologists, NOT bartenders) jackets, live jazz music and just a general speakeasy feel (you don't need a password to get in though!). I like majority of the drinks, though when I asked the bartender to make me something off the menu using my preferences (love dry, hate syrupy drinks) he just made me Death in the Afternoon - I was expecting something more from a mixologist... Anyways, if you stick to the menu, it's going to take you down a pretty good alcohol-hazy night, especially, if you sit at the bar and keep the drinks coming. read more

A classy, romantic wine and cocktail lounge just off Essex Road in Islington. It has a great old school Parisian feel to it. Service was spot on as where the delicious cocktails. However, this is a fairly generous 4 star review based largely on the stellar drinks. 69 Colebrook Row is absolutely tiny...there are probably twice as many tables as there should be given the small quarters (it's really just one small room). You will brush against your neighbors whether you like it or not! read more

Well, okay. I was excited about this place. I love fancy 'tails. There were four of us, all excited. We each had two drinks with only one of them replicated (dry martini). None were exceptional. I am not an asshole, and I also don't claim to know it all about cocktails. I LOVED the decor here and it was a cozy little corner pocket to chill out in. I recommend going there, but not if you're going there explicitly for the quality of the cocktails. The drinks are not very strong. The dry martinis were not all that dry and are a solid OK. The sarafin tasted like a margarita made with sour mix at a crappy Mexican bar. I could taste the ginger and it was definitely alright, but nothing that made me say MMMMMMMMMMMM. And I'm a pretty easy sell with anything tequila. I don't know. We all left kind of disappointed. I'd go back, but probably just for one drink. If you're billing yourself as a cocktail bar, you better serve me something a) delicious and b) inventive. The scene was top notch, but the drinks were barely above mediocre. Sad face. read more

I am so annoying when I'm indecisive! I don't know how I feel about 69 Colebrooke Row. Even though I'm pretty sure I'll be back. See? Indecisive and inconsistent. For shame, self (with serious input from my liver). Here's what I love love love about 69 Colebrooke Row: the service is impeccable. Like, seriously erm...bomb dot com. Greeted at the door by a man with our reservation on an iPad, guided to a table and introduced to server (hey, Martha!), everyone really attentive but not overbearingly so, water always filled up...yep. Fantastic service. I also love the space itself: it's tight (30 ish seats?) and so people were waiting for tables sitting on the stairs (drinking audience!). But...it felt cozy. And away from the hurly burly of Old Street. And the pianist was amazing (did I mention there was a pianist? No? Well, there was and I wish I could always take a tipple alongside the sound of live music). Here what I'm a little less sure of: the drinks were nice - truly nice - but they didn't wow me. Or maybe I'm being unfair because my expectations were so high. Or because I was comparing 69 Colebrooke to the NYC prohibition-style cocktail bars that have every detail on lock. Maybe, just maybe, it's worth another boozy experiment. I guess what I'm unclearly saying is: a great place to pop in for one cocktail pre-dinner or en route somewhere else, but I don't think it's enough of a unique experience to justify a night of cocktails here. Hmm. Yes. I think this is my final answer. Yelp note: reservations on Fridays and Saturdays, gang! Also, on that note: best for a party of 2. Largest party I saw was 4, but the space is tiiiiiight. read more

Love this place. Hands down one of the best cocktail bars in London. Service - Great! I've been here a number of times with both big and small groups and have never been disappointed. I was once served a dirty gin martini that didn't taste quite right- but once I queried if something was done different to it they insisted on making me a new drink. What? In London?! All the servers dress up so it's a fun place to head out for a couple drinks before a night on the town - especially if you are dressed up yourself. Cocktails - So yummy! All top shelf liquor - i don't want to say it's definitely worth the 9 quid per drink, but I've never once had a bad drink here. A lot of work is put into each drink, all fresh ingredients - one of my favs is the prairie oyster - a tomato infused yolk served in an oyster shell. At 5 quid it's a bit less than the other drinks on the menu and an experience in itself to drink. After 6+ cocktails one night with friends I was astounded to wake up hangover free, but apparently this is a sign of the liquor quality rather than any superpower I may possess. Reservations? Depends on when you're going but I've walked in here numerous time and been able to get seated. Of course on a Friday or Saturday night you'll want to book ahead. They also do a number of special events - worth signing up for the email list to get notifications. read more

First of all: You must book a place. Colebrooke is tiny, so try to make a reservation for a table before coming (especially on the weekend). My boyfriend is a big fan of these small vintage speak-easy cocktail bars, so we've come to 69 CR a few times over the last 2 years. The cocktails really are creative and the bartenders do a good job mixing up a tasty beverage. Good service, and a nice, laid-back environment. read more