The ViewLondon Review
Is it a gallery? Is it a bar? Who cares? It’s a great place to have a drink, with the added bonus of a bit of culture for those who want it.The VenueA stylish space centred around a large bar, Art Bar is welcoming with comfortable leather sofas and an open fire. A selection of art, available for purchase, hangs on the walls and is changed on such a regular basis that even the flightiest of social butterflies will be hard pressed to tire of the decor.
The AtmosphereCelebrities, royals and privileged locals mingle noisily in Art Bar and, as none of them seem to work very much, the place is packed even on week nights. The atmosphere is buzzy and informal and staff, although fashionably thin, are cheerful and competent.
The music focuses on Kings Road classics with 90s' soul and RnB providing most of the set list. Even the absence of a dancefloor doesn't seem to worry any of the booty shakers, who strut their stuff whenever and wherever the mood takes them.
The DrinkA vast and delicious cocktail list includes imaginative twists on old classics such as, the Jamaican Mule with spiced rum. Whilst bar service is fairly swift, this is reflected in the rather simple presentation of cocktails, so those for whom appearance is all-important may want to order instead from the decent wine list or the selection of beers and lagers.
The Last WordStuffed to the rafters with braying hoorays, Art Bar may well be frivolous but it's most definitely fun.