Traverse the steep staircase to enter the world of London’s oldest wine bar. With fantastic wines, rustic food and a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else, an evening at Gordon’s is an absolute must.

The Venue
Just outside Embankment station, the tiny entrance to Gordon’s is unlikely to catch your eye. Eventually you’ll spot the sign above the door and the narrow entrance, leading to an even narrower staircase and finally the bar. There’s an outside terrace to your right, the food counter straight ahead and the wine bar to the left. Tables and chairs are squeezed in every possible nook and cranny, and paintings, posters and wine bottles covered in thick dust line every inch of the walls.

The Atmosphere
The dark, gloomy bar will more than likely be packed with people inside and out (whatever the weather) from 5pm onwards. But it’s truly worth negotiating the crowds. Everyone’s in the same boat and patrons are usually happy to share tables, and if you’re happy to linger, you’ll often be rewarded with a spot as people begin to leave. Staff aren’t the most charming, but they know their stuff and you don’t really go to Gordon’s to be fawned over. The cave-like back room has the largest seating area, it is lit mainly by candles and is often filled with the sounds of rumbling tube trains – as well as the hum of chattering guests. The ceilings are pretty low, so be prepared to stoop a bit as you find a seat.

The Food
A cheeseboard from here is not to be missed. Choose one cheese for £4.50, two for £7.60 or three for £11.25 – all come with a hunk of fresh oven-baked French bread, tangy pickle, pickled onions and crunchy gherkins. Other dishes include homemade pork pie (£7.50) and Scotch eggs (£6.95), both made to a secret Gordon’s recipe, and medium-rare cold beef (£7.50) – all of which come with salad to which you help yourself. Hot dishes change daily, so check the blackboard when you’re there.

The Drink
Wine, wine and more wine. Choose from a truly exciting selection from all corners of the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a wine aficionado, there is most certainly something on offer that will get your taste buds tingling. More than 50 per cent of the wines on the menu can be ordered by the glass, starting from as little as £3.85, and bottles start at just £14.60. The menu offers tasting notes to help you choose from such a range.

The Last Word
Take a step back in time to a bar that is all about its wine offering, with no gimmicks or fuss. Even if you only try it once, you will not regret your visit.

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