531 Kings Road,
Chelsea,
London,
SW10 0TZ
(020) 7349 0810
The ViewLondon Review
Rumi is totally relaxed and unpretentious despite its Sloaney location, offering super cocktails, a sophisticated crowd and charming staff.
The Venue
Located on the Kings Road, next to Crazy Larrys, Rumi is easily reached from Fulham Broadway tube station, and is simple to identify with tasteful signage outside. Once inside, the fleur-de-lys swirly wallpapers, art deco chandeliers, and neutral colours create a stylish, mellow space with intimate booths, bar stools and a comfy area with lowered seats, plump cushions and dimmed lighting. The bar’s management make much of their interior design, and rightly so, as it creates a chilled out and unthreatening vibe.
The Atmosphere
Rumi attracts a refined crowd of slightly older thirtysomethings, Chelsea socialites, and a smattering of local design and media types. More mature and relaxed than the usual Kings Road trustafarians, the clientele help maintain the air of understated glamour the management are working hard to create, and there is a definite feel of smug superiority that you’ve found somewhere slightly above it all. There’s no pretension though – the managers are friendly and helpful sorting out your guestlist before you visit, and the doormen will greet you with a smile and a cheery, “Have a good night,” on the way in.
The Food
This place only offers food for its functions, with their Lebanese fusion canapes offering something unusual for the private parties, corporate functions, and launches it regularly caters to.
The Drink
There’s one reason to come to Rumi, and one reason to keep you coming back – the cocktails. Worth a mention are the Blood Orange (Absolut Mandarin with orange juice, raspberry and lime) and the Goan Tipple (pear vodka, strawberry liqueur, lime, mango and passion fruit), but truly outstanding is the Socialite, which you’d be a fool to miss. A delicious blend of raspberry Stoli, vanilla, apple juice and chambord, which is refreshing and summery. You can’t expect to get a cheap drink in this neighbourhood, but the cocktails won’t break the bank, priced at £7.50, which is comparable to its nearby rivals. Also available are a quality range of spirits, including Grey Goose vodka, and Champagne for every budget (including Cristal if you feel like a hip hop star).
The Last Word
You feel like the management at Rumi care about your night, with a well-thought out cocktail menu and the friendliest staff for miles. That’s why this classy crowd keep coming back for more – don’t miss out!
Rumi has been reviewed by 233 users