Shangri-La at The Shard’s Gŏng
Photo Courtesy of Shangri-La International Hotel Management Ltd
There’s no place like the River Thames when it comes to seeing the British capital in all its glory, and there’s no better way of taking in those awesome views than with a drink in your hand. Fortunately, this is a truth not lost on London’s bar impresarios, who’ve been busy in recent months opening a flurry of top-notch venues in this sought-after part of town. So, all together now, “Take me to the river!”
Dandelyan, Photo Courtesy of Naill Clutton
Dandelyan
Expect high style and effortless cool at bar maestro Ryan Chetiyawardana’s – aka Mr. Lyan – new venture at the Mondrian London at Sea Containers. The award-winning mixologist opened White Lyan in London’s Hoxton in 2013 and Henry, a Liquor Bar, in New York the same year. This unstoppable force brings his innovative style to Mondrian London, with a cocktail menu divided into cereals, vegetals, minerals and florals that call on a whole host of unusual ingredients. For example, there’s the Elderfir and its blend of douglas fir and grapefruit, tonic, Kamm & Sons aperitif and tequila. And we love the subtle dandelion flowers found in the Ford & Warner. With interiors by UK design superstar Tom Dixon, Dandelyan is a treat for the eyes and taste buds alike.
Gŏng at Shangri-La at The Shard
It’s all about the views at London’s highest bar, which makes up just one of the impressive wining and dining options at the recently opened Shangri-La at The Shard. Located on the skyscraper’s 52nd floor, Gŏng offers 360-degree views of the capital, from the River Thames running directly beneath it to Canary Wharf, Windsor Castle and beyond. The awe-inspiring address serves pretty special cocktails, too. Presented with a dramatic puff of dry ice, The Big Smoke, a combination of gin, sherry and vermouth, is a real experience of a drink. You can also choose from five champagnes available by the glass, plus a rare delight, an English sparkling wine from Ridgeview wine estate in Sussex. A menu of small plates, open sandwiches, salads and desserts includes tangy wasabi and ginger-cured salmon with yuzu cream and watercress on toast, fragrant rosemary focaccia with roasted vegetables and a decadent selection of chocolaty treats.
The Understudy, Photo Courtesy of Philip Vile
The Understudy
A relaxed atmosphere rules at this new bar at the National Theatre. Opt for a comfortable sofa or armchair as you look out through the floor-to-ceiling windows or grab a seat on the river terrace. Locally brewed and independent beers (think Redchurch Brewery’s Bethnal Pale Ale or Fourpure Pilsner from Bermondsey) are the order of the day, but you’ll find a range of wines by the glass, cocktails and London-distilled spirits as well. A good spot for refueling after a riverside walk, The Understudy is also the kind of place where you can find yourself whiling away the afternoon with a good book. Hang out later and the place will begin to fill with actors and crew from the National Theatre as they pop in for a drink after their shows have finished for the night.
