If you've found The Key you've certainly found the secret of Lavender Hill. This small, unassuming cocktail bar makes the best Manhattan this side of the Atlantic.

The Venue
The Key's modest exterior is no doubt passed daily by the hundreds who don't realise its hidden gems. Spaced over three floors, the good lighting, white walls and mocha coloured seating are stylishly understated. The basement bar is darker and more intimate and popular for private events. The coveted mezzanine floor with lounge-about sofas which overlook the Hill is a prime spot and well worth vying for.

The Atmosphere
The vibe seems to be what’d you expect from an ultra-cool New York bar. The clientele are a good-looking bunch of locals smug in the fact that they've found The Key, whilst the friendly and ultra-efficient barman really knows his stuff and effortlessly knocks out great cocktails all evening. Mid-week the tunes are more chilled to suit the easy going nature of the crowd, then the venue cranks the beat up to fit the weekend crowd.

The Drink
There's always a fraction of disappointment when your favourite cocktail is poured from a pre-mix. So it's very nice to see that the staff at The Key frown upon these and are all ears if you want a sweeter margarita or a dirtier martini. The drinks are served in the right glass with the right garnish and with prices more reasonable than most, you feel that you're getting good value for money. The vast and varied martini list boasts intoxicating pleasures such as the Bountini, vodka mixed with creme de cacao and Malibu, a pretty lady's dream. The Manhattans are better than in Manhattan and the margaritas are perfect Margarita. For the less exuberant there is Staropramen on tap and a half-decent wine selection.

The Last Word
For a chilled evening of perfectly mixed spirits, Lavender Hill's The Key is highly recommended. A neat little cocktail bar with its heart steeped in NYC.

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