If the atmosphere is frosty, blame it on the chilled interiors.
ArtesianDazzle them with a little West End glamour and they'll be putty in your hands. (View London are not responsible for any lack of putty-less hands.)
Langham Hotel,
1c Portland Place,
Regent Street,
London,
W1B 1JA
read our review BabalouBring some vibrancy to the date with a visit to the unique surroundings of Babalou, guarenteed to wow your date if nothing else.
The Crypt, St Matthews Church,
Brixton Hill,
Brixton,
London,
SW2 1JF
read our review Bar GansaMake it party time with a visit to Bar Gansa and have impromptu flamenco dancing quell any embarrassing silences.
2 Inverness Street,
Camden Town,
London,
NW1 7HJ
Commercial TavernNothing diverts the attention than a colourful and eclectic pub, so get them down here and watch those nerves disappear into the refurbished walls.
Crown and GreyhoundWhy not take your date to a pub with history? This Grade II listed pub building could be the perfect ice-breaker if your date happens to be a passionate Londoner (or a historian).
The CubanIf sophistication and contemporary settings are more your date's bag, delight them with this stylish embodiment of the Havana spirit. Get the pulses racing, the drinks flowing and the revolution started.
First EditionLocated in an attractive area of Canary Wharf with a swathe of white decor, this sophisticated but well priced wine bar is sure to impress without being too OTT.
The GramaphoneTake your date to the hotbed of cool (except 'cool' isn't cool anymore) by visiting The Gramaphone, a shrine to Hoxtonites with a scintillating vibe and the best DJs around.
Ground Floor & Basement,
60-62 Commercial Street,
Shoreditch,
London,
E1 6LT
read our review Greenwich Park Bar and GrillNothing will rescue a potentially troublesome social situation like a beautiful view of the capital, so take them to Greenwich Park Bar and Grill and let the backdrop be your secret weapon.
King William Walk,
Greenwich,
London,
SE10 9JH
Hand in HandIf you prefer a more traditional date then Hand in Hand in picturesque Wimbledon Village is perfect. With a beautiful courtyard and pretty views, it's sure to impress.
The Lock TavernIf you want to throw some live music into the mix, try the Lock Tavern for an unbeatable line-up of talent. The assured Camden ambience will also seal the deal.
LoungeloverThe jaw dropping design of this bar coupled with the impressive range of cocktails just begging to be sampled, make Loungelover a perfect choice for the first dater.
Mau Mau BarA deceptively small yet popular DJ and music venue in West London, the Mau Mau Bar may just be the environment for the chemistry to bubble.
265 Portobello Bar,
Notting Hill,
London,
W10 1LR
The Peoples Republic Bar and KitchenSink into the warm and groovy atmosphere of the People's Republic Bar and Kitchen, losing those first date nerves in an instant.
PineappleThis funky pub purchased a while ago by a number of wealthy locals (after rumours spread that its number was up) is the perfect spot for a first date tipple or two.
51 Leverton Street,
Kentish Town,
London,
NW5 2NX
Public House(British)Public House may sound like just another pub, but this is actually a very romantic, attractive bar in the heart of Islington. Serving great food and cocktails, it's worth checking out.
Shochu LoungeIf they like their cocktails, take them to Shochu Lounge and sample a selection of Japanese-based concoctions in modern and luxurious surroundings.
Two FloorsThis could be your 'find' - a fabulous bar with reasonably priced beverages in Soho, should you be a little strapped for cash on this important evening.
The VBarIf things are going well, take them for a spot of late night drinking in this stylish cocktail bar beneath the Viktor Japanese restaurant in Knightsbridge.
ZensaiZensai guarentees a party atmopshere every weekend so make the date one to remember with an original cocktail, an expert on the decks and perhaps a spicy bite to eat too.