Pool
Dirty Martini
London
May 11, 2018
There are changes afoot in Covent Garden. Where once there were mainly venues content to lure in the tourists, with scant regard for return trade, now there are bars and restaurants of quality and character.
Dirty Martini is part of this new wave. It might not be quite as hip as the London Cocktail Club’s various incarnations, but it’s a great place for an after-work drink. Somewhat tucked away, just off the main piazza, the stylish basement space is compact but well laid-out.
Drinks are of a very good standard: the Mango and Chilli Martini has a pleasing kick to it, their Tokyo Mule contains a splash of sake and their Hibiscus Fizz is the definition of refreshing. They serve a short selection of skinny cocktails and have a decent enough wine list.
Bar snacks are serviceable rather than outstanding spring rolls, skinny fries and sharing boards – but the happy hour offers are well worth checking out. They do some really good deals. Quality has not always consistent, though this is improving.
There are more memorable bars in the area, but if you’re looking for a place to let your hair down after a hard day this place should be high on your list. The venue gets particularly lively towards the end of the week and Dirty Martini makes a great spot for a party.
