The hotel, restaurant and bar scene in London ranks amongst the absolute most competitive environments in the world. It’s a compliment to the international reputation of the Mondrian hotel chain that it landed on the city’s radar so prominently so quickly.
The Mondrian Hotel London put down roots in Southwark – south of the River Thames – an area that exploded in recent years in both importance and amenities in London. High atop the hotel, the Rumpus Room bar capitalizes on the hotel’s prime location and surrounding vistas with a warm ambiance and a creative drinks menu.
Kept on its toes by Manager Henry Lukas and Head Barman Simon Aukett, Rumpus Room could’ve have opted for artsy, uptight and overpriced at every turn. Instead, the furnishing are comfortable and the staff friendly. The only minor quibble a guy could offer is the music was amped up a little too high — making it more difficult to chat with a date while defying the mellow, stylish feel of the lounge. That’s an easy fix.
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There are countless gorgeous views in a city like London, but the view from Rumpus Room (below) is worthy of legendary status. From local skyscrapers like “The Cheese Grater” and the “Walkie Talkie” to the east, across St. Paul’s Cathedral and downriver to the west, the sights make Rumpus Room a good spot for a drink even if you’re running stag. No lady on your arm? Enjoy the night air on the outdoor deck.
As for said drinks, the Rumpus Room menu includes a mix of standard offerings and special takes on old recipes. My personal favorites include The All British Whiskey Sour (Dewar’s 12 YO Scotch, rosehip and cider vinegar, London honey, bitters) and the Long Island Old Fashioned – a great mix of two standbys (Plantation Rum, Pierre Ferrand Curacao, Beefeater Gin, Ketel One Vodka, Olmeca Tequila, Mr Lyan cola syrup, orange bitters).
The joint is accessible right now as the hotel hasn’t been around long on the UK scene. Locals or tourists should stop in double time for a hang out before the secret gets out into the London air.
