9 Swallow Street,
Mayfair,
London,
W1R 7HD
0871 971 4401
The ViewLondon Review
Private members club The Volstead is a lounge bar that aims to recreate the post-war decadence of the 1920s. A sophisticated intimate venue; it lures the party set down into a plush cavern of low lighting and funky music.The VenueVolstead is ironically named after the sponsor of the US Prohibition Act of 1919. Situated on Swallow Street, just off Piccadilly, this below-ground Mayfair club has a strict entry policy, and even being on the guest-list does not guarantee entry if you don’t look the part. Jeans are sometimes allowed but do ensure that you’re looking glamorous!
It is a surprisingly small club; only holding 150 people, but this fosters a comfortable intimacy and enhances the opulent decor of mirrored walls, dark alcoves and leather banquettes.
The AtmosphereBeing in Mayfair and owned by Boujis (frequented by the young royals), the club tends to attract the typical sloaney crowd. The narrow street outside can get quite busy with expensive cars rolling up to drop off partygoers – especially as the Cuckoo Club is just down the road.
Having said that, the club is exclusive without being exclusionist, and once you’re through the velvet curtains, staff are friendly and helpful. The vibe is very relaxed and you can party the night away on the dancefloor before returning to the comfort of your table for a refreshing drink. Table-service is provided, with glamorous waitresses serving the drinks, and glasses and straws supplied on every table.
The MusicThe music can differ slightly depending on the night, but generally an eclectic mix of house, RnB and hip hop is played by the DJ, with sophisticated remixes and well-known hits getting people onto the dancefloor.
The DrinkDelicious retro 1920s cocktails are on offer, alongside champagne and several unusual bourbons and rye whiskies. The prices are pretty standard for this type of West End club, and the drinks are nice, if not particularly strong.
The Last WordThe atmosphere at Volstead is very relaxed for a private club and is not intimidating. This intimate yet upbeat and fun lounge bar is a place where you can party the night away in comfort and confidence.