apt is a real chameleon of a bar, exuding an air of daytime tranquility, transforming into an unpretentious party playground come the evening. A favoured haunt of work-hard-play-hard City girls and boys.

The Venue
Housed in the heart of Cheapside, apt is a short walk from Mansion House tube, equidistant between Bank and St Paul’s stations. It’s located on Queen Street, a few minutes from St Paul’s Cathedral; however, this is where the romanticism ends. Situated directly next to a William Hill betting shop, the protruding yellow and burgundy apt sign can’t be missed.

Before entering, you will notice a moderately-sized outdoor seating area, cordoned off by red rope. This area may not have the most charming view, with a main crossroad being directly adjacent; however, this alfresco area is pleasant enough and can be reserved on request, allowing revellers to soak up the last of the early evening sunshine. Inside, it’s apparent that this bar isn’t about high end sophistication, but it’s not trying to be. What it is, is a fun bar that’s home to two stylish, streamlined bars and a basement club area, which comprises a cluster of comfortable low black leather seats that overlook the dance floor.

The overall decor is certainly appealing: a sweeping curved black marble-topped bar is complemented by high steel and caramel leather stools with soft red lighting accenting the muted palette, making for a chic and well put together interior.

The Atmosphere
Based in the hub of The City, this bar appeals to an array of City workers who regularly descend upon it from 5pm. Like most bars, with the promise of the weekend comes its busiest period - Thursdays and Fridays are always upbeat here. Posing and pretension are not high on the bar’s agenda. The doormen and staff are welcoming and polite yet not over-familiar, probably because of the huge turnover of people who venture through the doors.

The Music
Forget funky house, trance or hardcore base tracks, at apt when the party is in full swing, you can expect the DJs’ sets to include a commercial round up of dance classics, party anthems and pop hits until 2am from Tuesdays to Fridays. The music reflects what this venue is about - light entertainment for a wide audience, a feel-good factor always taking priority.

The Food
The bar’s catchphrase ‘appropriate for you’ is certainly true when it comes to the varied menu - there is something for everyone here. Value for money and variety are phrases that spring to mind. There are two menus. Nibbles and sharers include chunky chips for just £2 and the most expensive item - nachos - is only £4.50. You can either order dishes individually or three for £10. There are also three generous sharing platters - rustic, (£12.95) Mediterranean and seafood (both £13.95). Happiest Hours between 5pm-9pm Monday to Friday and all day Wednesday ensure sharing platter prices are slashed by half.

The all day menu provides a huge choice from light bites and sandwiches to comfort food, gourmet burgers and sumptuous desserts. For example, you can choose from fresh homemade soup of the day served with crusty baguette (£4), prawn sandwich (£4), green Thai Asian chicken curry (£7.95) and hand-pressed lamb burger with Greek salad and tzatziki.

The Drink
In keeping with the food menu, the drinks list is fairly extensive and if you visit during happy hour your wallet will not feel the pinch.

The bar stocks a range of well known and continental beers, including Becks, Stella and Tiger and prices range from £3.70-£3.90. The cocktail list is comprehensive and includes classics such as the classic Woo Woo (£5.75 or £16 per jug) and Mojito (£6), with quirky concoctions such as Cream Cracker (Baileys, Kahlua, butterscotch and Amaretto; £6).

The wine list is also generous with something for most palates, from the Chilean, full bodied Sauvignon Blanc Ochagavia (£14.25) to the classic, dry French Pouilly Fume Serge Dagueneau (£32.95).

The Last Word
apt’s vivacious party atmosphere, stylish, comfortable setting and highly competitive promotional offers ensure it has something for most tastes and budgets, preserving its continued popularity within the heart of The City.

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