London’s Bar Américain at Brasserie Zédel

From the folks that brought us the Wolseley and the Delaunay comes the equally lavish Bar Américain, situated in the heart of Piccadilly Circus. London’s take on the classic American Art Deco bar (think 1930s prohibition) does us proud. Located within Brasserie Zédel, and in the basement of the former Regent Palace Hotel, the space has been fully restored and refurbished to its gilded glory. The hotel itself is steeped in history, having opened on May 16, 1915 and at the time was the largest hotel in Europe boasting 1,028 rooms. The manager, Joe Lyon, was positioning it as a more “democratic Ritz,” offering “luxuries usually available to the very rich open to the less well-off.” A very American idea indeed.

Not only does Bar Américain recreate Art Deco perfection, it also pays tribute to bygone days with its fantastic cocktail list. Classic tipples include the Manhattan and Sazerac while the house cocktails harken back to the glamorous ’30s (we couldn’t choose a favorite so try both the Chrysler Cocktail and The Gatsby). Pre-dinner drinks and after-dinner nightcaps here are a must.

Bar Américain

20 Sherwood Street

London, W1F 7ED

www.brasseriezedel.com