Small but perfectly formed, Be at One boasts a formidable cocktail list that takes on the big boys and easily finishes first.

The Venue
Be at One began in South London over ten years ago, now it encompasses eight venues across the capital. The latest Clapham Common branch brings it back to its roots with this tiny venue that is just a few convenient steps from Clapham Common tube station. Step inside and be transported into a miniature amalgamation of a classic New York-style cocktail bar and a laid back London local. The lights are dimmed, the sofas are leather and the music is loud – perfect party material. The windows allow you to watch the world go by, but once you get the drinks in, you’ll be more than pleased that you’re looking out from the inside of this charmingly cosy little bar.

The Atmosphere
It’s no exaggeration to say that you’ll be hard pushed to find a friendlier bar in the long stretch of Clapham’s watering holes. From the moment you enter there are greetings all round. The staff are evidently happy and proud to be working somewhere that offers its clients genuinely fabulous cocktails at easy-on-the-purse prices. Conversations are struck up by the bartenders, the glass collectors, the doormen. This talkative take on the more commonly found snooty cocktail bars means that the clientele tend to be full of smiles and handshakes (it could also have a little something to do with the impressive happy hour deals).

The Drink
If the superb staff haven’t won you over, then pick up the menu and admit defeat. There are over 180 cocktails available here and entertaining, professional bartenders mix all of them expertly. The Twisted Mojito and Mango Collins (£6.50) are must-haves and when the night gets heated (as it most certainly will on the weekends) then the ice-cream cocktails (£6.50) such as Chocolate Dipped Strawberries and Banana Banshee will have you screaming for more.

To sample the endless delights, visit during Happy Hour (Sunday-Wednesday 5pm-8pm and Thursday-Saturday 5pm-7pm) or stick with the trusted Bartender’s Choice and get 2-4-1 on selected cocktails all night from Sunday-Wednesday. It certainly helps to take credit crunch woes out of your night.

The Last Word
The kind of rare cocktail bar where you would have a great time whether you turned up alone or armed with a group of friends. There is nothing to disappoint here – the drinks are sensational, the staff are fantastic and the price is just right.

venue information venue map view london review user reviews (1)