101 New Oxford Street,
London,
WC1A 1DB
0871 971 4128
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
This boudoir-themed bar at the busy cross section of Centre Point caters for cheap night for students on a tight budget with a lengthy and dirt-cheap happy hour.
The Venue
101 Bar is located on New Oxford Street, right underneath the Centre Point tower. The area is less than salubrious but the bar is easy to find, with a few tables and chairs outside for those who want to watch double decker buses whiz by. Inside it takes a while for your eyes to adjust to the dimly lit bar, which is covered in mirrors and futuristic light-fittings. There are two floors in the bar, with lots of cosy deep plum coloured booths.
The Atmosphere
101 Bar has a student atmosphere of people out for a good time, and is quite quiet before the night owls come out. Once the party gets started though, this place has the potential for a raucous night out. Earlier in the night there is a strange mix of people here from middle-aged men getting together, to young professionals meeting up for a sneaky cheap cocktail, and a scattering of students who clearly don’t believe that being late is fashionable. The bar staff are all happy, friendly and seem to be well versed in cocktail recipes.
The Drink
The emphasis at 101 Bar is clearly on cocktails, which come in pitchers for those in it for the night, as well as in individual servings. There’s a decent range to choose from, with nothing particularly out of the ordinary on the menu. However, sticking to what you know is often a good philosophy and seems to work for the staff of 101 Bar who can mix a tasty concoction for you.
The Last Word
The decor of the bar is a little dated, and if it’s not busy 101 Bar could be a little depressing. However, this place is a decent choice for those on a budget who want to drink and dance the night away.