London’s Coolest Bars
It seems too good to be true what with all the good weather recently in London. In a city like this, you need to enjoy the longer warm evenings – and perhaps a bit of relief from the heat – at a nice bar or summer terrace, with a good drink and company at hand. But how to know which ones to pick in a city as big and varied as this – one that will offer a welcoming and multicultural crowd, sunny and positive vibes and of course some quality beverages? No need to get all hot and bothered, Catch a Vibe has sought out the cool from the sweaty. Here’s our guide to some of the best summer bars to sip a cocktail or a beer…
Mahoe Cafe
Mahoe Café Bar
Echoing a true Caribbean vibe, this centrally located café cum bar is named after the blue hued indigenous tree of Jamaica where the lawyer-turned bar owner hails from. Inside the lime green walls and among the cosy décor, choose from Caribbean classics like curried goat, jerk chicken as well as herbal teas, cocktails and ‘Sunday lunch’. Stylish and modern for the city workers but also provides that relaxed, homely island feel. Late night bar on Fridays and Saturdays until 1am is popular. A refreshing change from the typical bar-restaurant fare in Central London.
74 – 82 Queen Victoria Street, EC4N 4SJ, Mansion House tube | Mahoe Cafe website
The Beaufoy Bar & Restaurant
Offering a welcoming feel, this bar and restaurant in Battersea borough offers live music DJs as well as a varied menu, including Caribbean favourites.
18 Lavender Hill, SW11 5RW, Clapham Common tube | Beaufoy Bar website
Rhythm Cafe
Live music and performances are the focus at this venue, with evening and music workshops also offered such as Brazilian dance and African drumming, as well as jamming sessions, much in line with the traditional, tribal Camden spirit. A not-for-profit organisation, it aims to instil rhythm, spirit, dance and community for its punters – to provide a world music centre in the heart of North London. Think raw yoga dancing, a family friendly vibe and funky organic café food. Uplifting and welcome to all.
Stables Market, Camden, Chalk Farm tube | Rhythm Cafe website
Camino
Offering a Spanish taste, this bar-restaurant offers authentic breakfast, lunch and dinner including churros, tapas or a mean steak cooked on a charcoal grill. And if you’re of the social conscious minded clan, the venue aims to offer free trade, organic and sustainable food and drink options. There is also good discounts and freebies on offer for those on a budget. A varied selection of DJs guest at the space, including reggaeton, funk, salsa and hip-hop. Its obviously popular as they are now planning a second venue – Camino Puerto del Canario is set to open in August.
3 Varnishers Yard, N1 9FD, Kings Cross tube | Camino website
Barrio North
Barrio North/Barrio Central
Aiming to provide a fusion of Latin cultures – that is to reflect the down-to-earth, inclusive neighbourhood vibe of Latino quarters within the busy London streets, the welcoming ethos is spread across two ‘barrios’ – one in Soho and another in Islington – both offer an eclectic menu and vision in line with its belief of no geographical barriers but a common mindset, with flavours and styles from Mexico, North America, Cuba and Spain. DJ Oliver Knight (part of Roots Manuva’s Banana Klan) is a regular fixture at the Soho space, which has colourful, spacious but unpretentious décor, including garden-style seating for that summer terrace experience. Go to North to sup a beer in the caravan (yes inside the bar). Head there early evening for the ‘amigo hour’ cocktails and stay late for the music, attentive staff and happy atmosphere.
6 Poland Street, W1F 8PS, Oxford Circus,Tottenham Court Road tube | Barrio Central website
45 Essex Road, N1 2SF, Angel tube | Barrio North website
The Gold Coast Bar
Originally opened in South Norwood, The Gold Coast, its popularity meant a second venue was opened in Brixton. Ghanian hospitality, food and drinks are the theme at this venue. The Brixton bar offers the full works of restaurant, bar and club, while at the South Norwood home, the two-floor venue has big screen football, restaurant as well as a beer garden.
224 Portland Road, SE25 4QB, Norwood Junction tube
40 Acre Lane, SW2 5SP, Brixton tube | Gold Coast website
