London (Fodor's 2012) - Fodor's [165]
Bars
Bedford and Strand.
The wine bar enjoyed something of a renaissance in the first decade of the 21st century in London, and this is one of the best of a new generation. It’s sunk atmospherically down below the streets of Covent Garden, with dark wood and hanging shades; the wine list is short but well chosen, the service is faultless, and the bistro food is created with plenty of care. | 1A Bedford St., Charing Cross | WC2E 9HH | 020/7836–3033 | www.bedford-strand.com | Mon.–Sat. noon–midnight | Charing Cross.
HAYMARKET
Bars
The Mint Leaf Bar.
Renowned for its long bar, this restaurant’s bar–lounge has more than 500 spirits and serves more than 1,000 well-prepared cocktails. Nibbles and light snacks with an Indian twist are available, and if you’re up for some more substantial spicy food, treat yourself to a meal at the sophisticated restaurant. There is also a sister bar and restaurant located in Angel Court in The City. | Suffolk Pl., Haymarket | SW1Y 4HX | 020/7930–9020 | www.mintleafrestaurant.com | Mon.–Wed. noon–midnight, Thurs. and Fri. noon–1 am, Sat. 5 pm–1 am, Sun. 5 pm–midnight | Piccadilly Circus.
VICTORIA
Dance Clubs
Pacha.
London’s version of the Ibizan superclub is in a restored 1920s dance hall next to Victoria Coach Station. The hedonistic surroundings include a (smoking) roof terrace for alfresco clubbing and a state-of-the-art VIP room. The crowd is slightly older than average and stylish, but not necessarily as moneyed as you might expect. | Terminus Pl., Victoria | SW1 9HN | 0845/371–4489 | www.pachalondon.com | £5–£20 | Fri. and Sat. 10 pm–5 am | Victoria.
WESTMINSTER
Bars
Cinnamon Club.
In the basement of what was once Old Westminster Library, the Club Bar of this contemporary Indian restaurant (treat yourself to a superb curry) has Bollywood scenes playing on a large screen, Asian-theme cocktails (mango mojitos, Delhi mules), delicious bar snacks, and a clientele that includes fashionable young politicos. Upstairs, the Library Bar also serves cocktails through the day. | The Old Westminster Library, Great Smith St., Westminster | SW1P 3BU | 020/7222–2555 | www.cinnamonclub.com | Mon.–Sat. 6–11:45 pm | Westminster.
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The Scene
The Performing Arts by Neighborhood
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Arts and Entertainment Overview | Arts and Entertainment Planner
Updated by Julius Honnor
“All the world’s a stage,” said Shakespeare, immortal words heard for the first time right here in London. And whether you prefer your art classical or modern, or as a contemporary twist on a time-honored classic, you’ll find that London’s vibrant cultural scene holds its own on the world stage.
Divas sing original-language librettos at the Royal Opera House, Shakespeare’s plays are brought to life at the reconstructed Globe Theatre, and challenging new writing is produced at the Royal Court. Whether you feel like the lighthearted extravagance of a West End musical or the next shark-in-formaldehyde at the White Cube, the choice is yours.
Shakespearean theater and contemporary musicals, enormous art installations and tiny Renaissance portraits, magnificent operas and cutting-edge physical theater—if you’re into going out, London will suit your fancy. There are international theater festivals, innovative music festivals, and critically acclaimed seasons of postmodern dance. Short trip or long, you’ll find the cultural scene in London is ever-changing, ever-expanding, and ever-exciting.
No matter where you head, you’ll find that London’s art and performing arts scenes have been setting global trends for decades—and when you include Shakespearian theater and Handel oratorios, for centuries. Fringe theater, classical ballet, participatory chorales, you name it, London probably did it first and often does it best.
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT OVERVIEW
CLASSICAL MUSIC
Whether it’s a concert by cellist Yo-Yo Ma or a Mozart requiem by candlelight, it’s possible to hear first-rate musicians