1 Aldwych,
Aldwych,
London,
WC2B 4RH
0871 971 3938
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
A stylish yet unpretentious hotel bar, the Lobby Bar at One Aldwych is the perfect choice for a pre- or post-theatre cocktail.
The Venue
An imposing arched doorway complete with immaculately groomed doormen signals the entrance to One Aldwych, hinting at the luxurious surroundings that await within. The Lobby Bar at One Aldwych sprawls out in front of you with a limestone floor so polished that you could check your lipgloss in it, dark oak panelling and a large bronze sculpture of a rower with giant oars taking pride of place on the floor in the middle of the room. Scattered seating set around small dark wood tables laden with dishes of nuts sit alongside a few throne-like high back leather chairs. Clean, simple lines make the overall appearance of the bar sophisticated and double-height ceilings give a light, airy feel to the space.
A couple of giant pots burst with oriental-style flowers set high above the bar on Perspex plinths. The small bar is located towards the back of the space with premium spirits and expensive bottles of Champagne adorning the shelving behind.
The Atmosphere
Lobby Bar at One Aldwych isn’t the kind of place you just stumble upon and you could be forgiven for thinking it’s going to be just another stuffy, ostentatious cocktail bar; however, this really isn’t the case and the atmosphere is surprisingly relaxed. Expect to see young couples sipping cocktails intimately by the windows and groups of women in well-cut skirt suits animatedly chatting around a table laden with nibbles and martini glasses. Most of the customers are in their thirties, forties and fifties, and the atmosphere is not particularly lively but there is an animated vibrancy to the space.
Table service is the order of the day here and the impeccable staff are friendly and attentive. The rather attractive bartenders are more than happy to draw upon their mixology skills and create personal cocktail concoctions just for you.
The Food
The Lobby Bar at One Aldwych focuses on good quality snacks and nibbles. There is a breakfast menu that is served throughout the week until 11am. Sandwiches are also offered during the lunchtime period. An evening snacks menu is also available and you can choose between sushi (£13.75) or crispy duck spring rolls (£8.50) complete with plum sauce, spring onion and cucumber.
The Drink
Cocktails are undoubtedly the drink of choice at the Lobby Bar at One Aldwych. The Gooseberry Martini (£10.50) is a blend of fresh gooseberries, light elderflower cordial and chase potato vodka. Alternatively, toast the Great British summer with a Summer Meadow (£11.50) a Champagne cocktail comprising kiwi vodka, midori and lime cordial. For those that wish to keep a clear head on a weekday evening try one of the energizing mocktails such as the aptly named Up and About (£6.50) - a delicious blend of fresh pineapple, kiwi and cranberry juice.
The Last Word
The epitome of style, the Lobby Bar at One Aldwych doesn’t disappoint with mouth-watering cocktails, dramatic architecture and the perfect blend between comfort and design.
Lobby Bar at One Aldwych has been reviewed by 2 users