Noir

Noir, the smart, sleek bar at the Charles Hotel, exudes 1940s cool. With its beaded curtains and soft red light it’s true to its name, styling itself as the kind of place Philip Marlowe might want to sink a drink in. Ere-appropriate films are projected on the walls and the music completes the 1940s mise-en-scßne. A number of swanky leather booths are dotted around the place and even the drinks riff on the film noir theme. The LA Confidential is a louche, fruity mix of peach, vodka Cointreau, peach nectar, and champagne. The Black Dahlia packs a punch, pairing 42 below Vodka with Triple Sec, pomegranate juice, blackberry juice and a twist of lemon, while the Dick Tracey blends cognac with rye whiskey, Amaro Montenegro, and angostura bitters. They also do a nice line in classic cocktails, including a mean Red Hook, that potent cousin of the Manhattan. Small plates and bar bites include wasabi peas, moreish artichoke and Parmesan dip, all manner of sandwiches and salads. The service is smooth and the bar plays host to an eclectic range of events.