Hush Bar, nestled in the heart of Mayfair, is ideal for a relaxed evening of posing, schmoozing and generally being ‘fabulous’.

The Venue
Tucked away down a pedestrianised labyrinth of alleyways, on a cobbled street in the midst of Mayfair, the discreet setting makes this bar a real treasure. Situated at the bottom of a narrow street, running parallel to New Bond Street, if first impressions are important then Hush Bar scores well. The large terrace laden with well-dressed tables and chairs is somewhat idyllic. A designer topiary ‘H’ over the brick fronted door gives off the impression that this is a venue where image is everything.

Through the quaint doorway and up the main galleried staircase into the bar, you’re greeted with a clean, modern decor. The beige trumpet-style lighting that hangs low over the light-wood stairs is a stylish touch that sets the tone of the bar. The bar itself is set at the top of the stairs, perfect for people watching. The marble counter reflects the under-lit luminous green lighting, giving off a dark and moody vibe.

The low-lit cocktail lounge evokes an ambience that’s ideal for romantic tete-a-tetes. Comfortable sofas that you can sink into are adorned with plump cushions in jewel tones, set around small wooden tables lit up by candlelight. The seating and walls are integrated creating further space, and although it can get very busy, the lounge area remains intimate. A large gilt mirror adds an elaborate touch to an otherwise minimalist bar. Although the area is not huge in size, the space is well utilised and for parties of up to fifteen there is an exclusive boudoir lounge just off the main area.

The Atmosphere
The bar at Hush Bar is surprisingly upbeat and gets busy from midweek evenings. You can expect it to be full of thirtysomething Mayfair fashionistas cradling their peach bellini in one hand whilst holding their Prada handbag in the other, exceptionally groomed yummy mummies having a post-shop beverage, and businessmen looking to unwind after a hard day at the office. The crowd is certainly upmarket, although the bar isn’t as pretentious as first impressions may imply. The good looking staff are impossibly friendly and attentive.

Expect a good mix of commercial music; RnB, pop, chart and some golden oldies although you most certainly won't be dancing around your handbag, arms in the air to YMCA here. The music is never too loud, it’s more of a background accompaniment that leaves you able to hold a conversation and hear the other person. It is possibly the volume of chatter, laughter and glasses clinking that makes up the majority of the noise here and adds to the lively, busy atmosphere.

The Food
A small but delicious bar snacks menu is available offering light, Asian-influenced bites. The focus is on quality rather than quantity so expect small but aesthetically pleasing dishes that complement your tipple of choice.

There’s a range of snacks from mouthwatering chicken satay (£6) to everyone’s favourite comfort food - homemade chips with freshly prepared garlic aioli (£6). The dishes are served in good time and are easy on the wallet so whether your budget is Gucci or Gap there is something for everyone. Hush Bar also houses a downstairs brasserie with alfresco dining and the luxurious upstairs Silver Room offering a range of dishes for the discerning diner.

The Drink
The drink menu is vast and rather exceptional. The experienced, inventive bar staff provide an innovative drink selection. A large menu consists of captivating cocktails like the aptly named Hush Bar Champagne cocktail (Taittinger with violet liquor and an edible flower).

As you might expect, bubbles reign supreme here; starting at £8.50 for a glass, rising to a purse-emptying £450 for a bottle of Cristal, the balance is pretty good. Wine is also offered with blends for even the most discerning palate (expect to pay around £4.50 for a glass of Sauvignon Blanc).

The spirit selection is extensive with aperitifs and liqueurs at £5.50 a glass and cognacs and gin at £8.50 a glass, expensive but in line with London prices.

The Last Word
Worth seeking out if you’re in the area; Hush Bar is a discreet, popular place to enjoy a mid-week drink amongst stylish, sociable people.

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