Ideal for a pre or post dinner drink, Odette’s Bar is a sophisticated space and perfectly caters for the wealthy residents of this exclusive neighbourhood.

The Venue
Set amidst countless other expensive yet understated establishments that grace Regent’s Park Road, Odette’s façade blends in perfectly. The simplicity of the sign combined with the warm glow flowing from the large windows easily draws in locals on their evening jaunt.

The pretty décor of the restaurant on the first floor is typical of lovely Primrose Hill chic. Downstairs, the look is altogether different, with dark woods, dim lighting and large, plush velvet chairs that create a more intimate feel. Though the bar is small, with only a few tables tucked in and around the bar, the arched booths for large groups add space and a stylish look.

The Atmosphere
The characters that grace the bar at Odette’s showcase the mix of north west London residents. Yummy mummies gossip and sip cocktails while their children stay at home with the nannies; decadent, older gents pine for cigars as they relax under the odd purple glow from the bar; friends and couples catch up over a bottle of wine and add a lively tone to the otherwise rather quiet but peaceful basement bar. The bar is the perfect accompaniment to the restaurant upstairs, adding a chance to get really comfortable after a three-course meal, or giving locals an opportunity to pop in for a lighter bite in a more laidback ambience.

The Food
Though any food from the restaurant can be ordered in the bar, if you want something moreish to accompany your drinks, the small selection of bar food is more than adequate. It costs from £8-£11 per dish and the smoked salmon is fresh, thick-cut, full-flavoured and a lighter option for the health conscious. For something saltier and a great deal richer, the selection of cured meats or the selection of British meats are ideal. However it’s the battered fish that’s the star of the menu and it’s so good it should be offered in the restaurant. The light, well-seasoned batter encases soft flaky fish which is very light and delicious. For something sweeter, the tarte tartin from the a la carte menu has a delectable, sticky consistency with a good balance of sweet and sour.

The Drink
The classic selection of cocktails offered at Odette’s aren’t frivolous or fussy, but instead they’re well-made with premium ingredients, which is reflected in the price (£9.50-£10.50). The cosmopolitan has just the right sharpness to compete with the strength of the triple sec, but for something with a more heady strength, the vodka martini certainly delivers. The caipirinha is well-made but needs a bit more lime in it, and the whisky sour is a refreshing concoction of whiskey, lemon and sugar.

Unsurprisingly for the area, the whisky selection is ample, as are other options for digestifs, such as cognac and armagnac. However the wine selection is small, and though carefully selected, the prices hover around £20-£30 a bottle, which means it won’t be to everyone’s budget. Locals are unlikely to be unduly troubled, though.

The Last Word
Offering a change of scene and a less formal sitting than the restaurant, Odette’s Bar is a pleasant place to enjoy a few drinks and a bite to eat.

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