LAB Bar, Old Compton Street

Opened in 1999, LAB (London Academy of Bartenders) has been the place to go for well priced and good quality cocktails. With an extensive cocktail list, there’s an abundance of choice.

We kicked off with a Jack Bauer Sour and the Bon Bon – unfortunately, the Jack Bauer was pretty disappointing – I was expecting a potent mix of Beefeater 24 Gin, Suze and Chartreuse Herbal Liqueurs, egg white and green tea syrup but instead, was presented with something that tasted weak and oddly soapy. Luckily, the Bon Bon saved the day – deliciously sweet and creamy, the Limoncello and tangy lemon juice cut across the warmth of the vanilla vodka, butterscotch schnapps and vanilla sugar, creating a perfectly balanced cocktail. Other favourites included the Tiramisu cocktail – a creation from the LAB kitchens, it was a delectably rich mix of flavours of the Patrón XO Café Tequila, Mozart white and dark liqueurs and mascarpone cheese all topped with an invigorating shot of espresso and dusted with super rich dark chocolate powder.

For those who don’t fancy an alcoholic tipple, there are a few delicious creations in their ‘Hall of Shame.’ We sampled the Melonie, a refreshing blend of watermelon, apple and cranberry juices shaken with lemon juice and elderflower cordial and also the fantastically flamboyant Parade which consisted of a passion fruit and raspberry puree mixed with fresh apple, orange and lime juices.

The only downsides are the fact that bartenders can take quite a while to concoct your drinks – but this is small price to pay for the excellently crafted drinks they come up with. I’ve also heard complaints that the cocktails are too sweet so if you like a cocktail that packs a punch, it might be a good idea to ask the bartenders to tone down the sugariness.

Overall, LAB is a great place to hang out  – there's a good vibe, an excellent cocktail menu and friendly service.



Details, details:

12 Old Compton Street

London W1D 4TQ

020 7437 7820

//5 Foodie Places to love - London ♥

If you're out and about in London, I highly recommend paying a visit to one of these places - they're all fantastic and totally worth a nose around in!


1. Monmouth Coffee Company - 27 Monmouth St, London WC2H 9EU

A visit to Monmouth’s flagship shop in Covent Garden is definitely a worthwhile pilgrimage for seasoned coffee lovers. Famous for their carefully sourced beans and the care and preparation lavished on each and every cup of the good stuff, Monmouth shows bog standard coffee chains that it is possible to be ethical and produce something delicious.

2. Beatroot - 92 Berwick Street, Soho, London, W1F 0QD

Beatroot offers yummy vegetarian fare and has been heartily recommended by vegetarians and non veggies alike. With fresh, quick, tasty and very reasonably priced food as well as a wide variety of smoothies on the menu, it makes for a perfect place to eat when you’re after that essential energy boost.

3. Yalla Yalla Beirut Street Food - 1 Greens Court, London, Soho W1F 0HA

Yalla Yalla offers good quality, authentic Lebanese Street food and is open until 11.30pm. It’s a great venue if you’re out and about and want a tasty late night snack. Don’t be put off by the fact that it is always packed, a great vibe and friendly service will make you want to stay all night.

4. Borough Market – 8 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TL

Undoubtedly the best place to food shop in London, there isn’t anywhere quite like it. ‘Fresh’ is the keyword here – you’ll be surrounded by the best local and international produce London has to offer. It’s recommended you visit on a Thursday when it’s quieter, but if you love the crowds, go on a Saturday.

5. Graphic Bar - 4 Golden Square, Soho, London, W1F 9HT

Quirkily furnished bar with knowledgeable, friendly staff and a drinks list that boasts awesome cocktails as well as 60 types of gin, Graphic is the ultimate hang out for those who long for a more sophisticated but still highly enjoyable night out.