Rupert Street Bar

Soho's Premier Spot for Fun Cocktails

Entering the charming confines of Rupert Street, one is immediately struck by its infectious energy—a blend of camp camaraderie, music so undeniably loud it practically has its own postcode, and a buzzing crowd. Let's gloss over the sonic assault that makes conversation something of an Olympic sport; this Soho staple attracts patrons with its brimming cocktails and cheeky character. The bar strength lies with its buoyant staff, like the vivacious Josh Meadows—kitted out in bleach blonde hair and nerdy specs, expertly wielding both shaker and charisma like a stage magician you've paid to see. His mere presence has, indeed, been noted to elevate the cocktail-tipping experience to new heights. Meanwhile, Joseph adds an extra dose of whimsy with his wardrobe choices, confidently turning denim dungarees into standard bar man attire; were rabbit ears ever a daywear trend I missed?

Of course, this oasis of libation does, at times, test patience for a sip of service, courtesy of haphazard table clearing and moments of inexplicable bartender invisibility. You might encounter the odd sour note, a grumpy doorman channeling too much pre-party Interpol, or traverse a lacklustre passage with a drink list as unenthusiastic as a Monday morning commuter. Nonetheless, pin these wonky glitches against the indelible charms of Anthony’s expertly shaken mojitos or Alex's masterpiece Long Island Iced Teas and you find yourself, despite these blips, very much in Rupert Street's corner. Ultimately, it's a speakeasy theatre that leaves its patrons more enriched with character than gold-lined pockets—and really, that's what keeps you compulsively boomeranging back for generous top-ups of both beverage and banter. — Penelope Savory