Shochu Lounge

The decor is right out there – some of London’s wackiest murals adorn the walls – but the abundance of lovely dark wood and the low lighting give a total visual effect that’s not just soothing but subtly seductive. And the seating reinforces it, with lots of places where two people can settle in and feel they’re in their own little nook. One wall is lined with big demijohn-like tanks of shochu, the traditional Japanese spirit, which takes centre stage – it comes flavoured with interesting additions like plum or sweet potato and forms the basis of many of the fine cocktails. There’s nowhere else like this in London.