The best cocktail bars in Mayfair

Smith & Whistle is a stylish, retro-inspired Mayfair cocktail bar boasting 1920s decor. The bar serves expertly crafted drinks to two and four-legged patrons alike, with a dedicated menu of dogtails for your best pal. Boasting an extensive selection of spirits, including intriguing gins, whiskeys, and rums, alongside a cigar menu and an outdoor terrace for al fresco enjoyment, Smith & Whistle isn't just one of the best cocktail bars in Mayfair, it's the most dog-friendly too.

The Bar at The Athenaeum hotel is a refined yet inviting space offering over 100 types of whiskey from around the world. Taking full advantage of the impressive collection, the cocktail bar in Mayfair offers a range of signature mixes and whiskey-based drinks, and they're happy to serve you up your off-menu favourite too. Cocktail masterclasses are also available for those eager to learn more. With an accompanying selection of wines, champagne, and low- or no-alcohol options, this sophisticated venue provides a welcoming atmosphere for both spirit enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

Tucked away beneath French chef Cyril Lignac's elegant France-meets-Asia restaurant you'll find a stylish basement lounge with plush seating, rich fabrics, and an air of hushed sophistication. There are more than 250 bottles of the finest French wines to choose from here, but cocktail enthusiasts are in luck as well. Classic serves and signature house drinks are both available at this speakeasy-style cocktail bar.

3'6 Bar is a stylish drinking spot located inside the renowned Fortnum & Mason department store. Featuring a sophisticated design with deep colours, framed artwork, and a striking sculptural bar, 3'6 specialises in signature and classic mixes, alongside an extensive range of spirits, wines, teas, and coffees. Gourmet bites are served throughout the day as well, making this a rounded retreat for anyone needing a break during their shopping spree.

Like their sister venues across London, the Mr Fogg's cocktail bars in Mayfair draw inspiration from the adventures of Phileas Fogg in “Around the World in Eighty Days”. These themed drinking dens feature meticulously detailed decor and serve an extensive cocktail menu showcasing exotic ingredients, unique glassware, and theatrical presentation. Live music nights and cocktail masterclasses are also hosted here.

Enduringly popular, the bar at the prestigious five-star Connaught hotel is regularly named among the finest drinking spots worldwide. Within its Art Deco-inspired designer setting with intricately detailed walls, a polished grey counter, and a seamless blend of classic and modern touches, mixology maestros serve cocktails that capture subtle sensations and moods. They also know that you can't beat a classic, which is why the dry martini, elegantly assembled tableside on a trolley, is a perennial favourite at this timeless cocktail bar in Mayfair.

A favourite among Mayfair's stylish crowd, Donovan Bar exudes sophistication with its plush velvet armchairs, gold accents, and understated decor punctuated by vibrant touches and stained-glass windows. The meticulously curated cocktail menu is the work of renowned mixologists and has placed this Mayfair cocktail in the elite company of some of the finest drinking destinations in the world.

The Dorchester hotel's Vesper Bar is named after the iconic Vesper martini conceived by James Bond in Ian Fleming's novel “Casino Royale” – the author was a regular visitor to the hotel back in the day.  Exuding the glamour of a 1930s lounge, the designer space is elegantly adorned with Art Deco touches, offering a refined setting for cocktail and Bond fans alike. Martinis are the stars of the show, of course, but other skilfully mixed drinks in bespoke glassware, accompanied by gourmet snacks, are available as well.

The Ritz is one of the most prestigious hotels in the whole world, and the Rivoli Bar is a perfect reflection of this grandeur. This lavish Mayfair cocktail bar is adorned with gold accents and welcomes distinguished patrons with its intimate, sophisticated atmosphere. The Rivoli Bar's inventive cocktail menu changes month to month and is complemented by gourmet choices like caviar, sandwiches, and burrata.

The original Kwãnt was considered one of the world's best bars before closing down, relocating, and launching a couple of years later. Fortunately, the new iteration didn't take long to reach the same heights. Featuring lush greenery, rattan furnishings, and subtle tiki-inspired touches, Kwãnt offers a unique experience in addition to its regular menu – an omakase menu comprising five exquisite potions crafted in front of you.

The lavish Artists' Bar at the five-star Dorchester hotel radiates elegance – and light, too, seeing as Liberace's glittering piano and a bespoke Lalique crystal bar serve as its centrepieces. Both function as more than just decor, however, with the former put to good use by the resident pianist, and the latter serving premium champagne, expertly crafted cocktails, and exquisite seafood to a discerning Mayfair clientele.

The May Fair Bar stands out with its sleek round bar, complementing the chic modern décor and stylish furnishings. It's a vibrant destination for cocktails, small plates, and breakfast too, offering an exclusive drinks menu alongside a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere. With regular DJ sets, the bar creates an upbeat party vibe while maintaining its refined appeal.

Previously situated above chef Jason Atherton's Social Eating House and now tucked away beneath Mary's, The Blind Pig is known for its inventive cocktails, fine wines, and beer. With a dimly lit interior suffused in vintage charm, featuring mirrored ceilings and reclaimed wooden furnishings for added ambiance, the discreet drinking den serves signature cocktails and intriguingly themed selections like the Music Through the Ages collection, inspired by iconic tunes.

The luxurious Claridge's Bar offers an exquisite drinking experience within the renowned Claridge's hotel. Inspired by Art Deco elegance, the Mayfair cocktail bar serves a sophisticated selection of champagnes, cocktails, and rare spirits, blending classic favourites with inventive new creations. Thanks to its “no photo” policy, don't be surprised to see a famous face or two while there either.

Located within the elegant Japanese restaurant Nijū, Nipperkin offers expertly crafted cocktails served with exceptional care, in line with the Japanese philosophy of hospitality. Featuring just 22 seats arranged around a central table, Nipperkin is styled after retro Japanese listening bars, with warm ambiance, soft lighting, and a tasteful music policy. The cocktails here are crafted with Japanese spirits and sake for an extra-special touch.