They say good things come in small packages; does the diminutive size of The Cinnamon Bar prove this theory? In part, at least, it does.

The Venue
Surprisingly intimate for somewhere so close to the Strand and the many theatre-goers who descend upon it, The Cinnamon Bar is a great place to sit and watch London go by after a hard day’s work. Small but not cramped, the modest bar is easily missed by passers by.

Subtle metallic hues and a glass counter filled with delicious treats combine wine bar with cafe. With high stools and plenty of little round tables, you won’t struggle to find a seat and they often provide table service. If you don’t mind the hustle and bustle of Aldwych there are more seats outside, ideal for enjoying one of their menu’s refreshing cocktails in the sun.

The Atmosphere
Although The Cinnamon Bar gets busier in the evening, it always has a sense of calm. More of a quiet snack bar than anything else, it attracts individuals, couples and small groups who might be experimenting with cocktails and wine or just having a coffee and a slice of cake. Its location and style means that you’re as likely to find a tourist in jeans as you are a group of well-suited businessmen. Even on your first visit you will feel right at home as the bar exudes a comfortable, laid back ambience. Most importantly, the staff are friendly and eager to please with professional service that comes with a genuine smile.

The Food
The Cinnamon Bar spoils customers for choice with its boastful counter of snacks. Most popular is their selection of tapas with both meat and vegetarian options starting at £1.80 per portion; choose a selection of three for only £5.75, or combine with beer or wine for a great inclusive price.

If you’re after something smaller, go for the portion of toasted bread for £2.10 served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Sushi lovers can enjoy the classic or vegetarian selection from £6.75 for seven pieces, or for those with a sweet tooth there’s nothing better than their selection of large cookies at only 95p per indulgence - the white chocolate ones are particularly divine. For a lunchtime dish try one of their freshly made paninis and you won’t go wrong.

The Drink
The bar caters more for the suave businessmen than the boys, with no draught beers and only four bottles to choose from; Budvar, San Miguel, Tiger and Becks. The tasty wine menu more than makes up for it though, as does the Champagne, which ranges from £27-£60 per bottle. The beers are on the expensive side at £3.50 and a small glass of chilled Chenin Blanc will set you back £4.50. This is the only downside of this pleasant bar.

Their cocktail menu offers far more variety, from Champagne mixtures to classics such as the cosmopolitan. Darker options include Between the Sheets (Remy Martin Cognac, Cointreau and Bacardi), or a tangy orange mojito, a refreshing take on the original. If martinis are more your tipple, The Cinnamon Bar has no less than ten martini-based cocktails on the menu. The cocktails are your best bet for good value as they price in at £5.15 a pop, which isn’t bad at all, and are only a little more for the Champagne based drinks.

The Last Word
The Cinnamon Bar offers great service, delicious cocktails and tasty snacks, all wrapped up in a fantastic location. However, its diminutive size is a letdown and makes this the kind of place to kickstart your night on the town rather than languish in for an entire evening.

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