Nightjar

Nightjar is a basement cocktail bar on City Road near Old Street roundabout, opened in 2010 and designed in the style of a speakeasy. Behind an unmarked door, a staircase leads down to a dimly lit room with low tables, booths and a small stage, decorated with Art Deco touches that evoke the jazz age. It has been featured in The World's 50 Best Bars and is consistently named among London's best cocktail bars, while keeping a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

The cocktail menu is the main draw. Drinks are grouped by era, from historic recipes to modern creations, and are known for their theatrical presentation, with unusual glassware, garnishes and serving vessels. Many cocktails use rare and vintage spirits, and several have become modern classics. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to guide you through the list or make suggestions based on your tastes. A menu of snacks and small plates is available to accompany drinks.

Live music is the other highlight. Every night from 21:00, musicians play jazz, blues, swing or funk on the small stage, and the music adds a lot to the atmosphere. A cover charge applies for the live music sessions, and it goes directly to the musicians. Nightjar suits couples, small groups of friends and anyone looking for a polished, atmospheric night out in East London.

Walk-ins are welcome, but booking ahead is recommended, especially for evenings with live music and at weekends, when the bar fills quickly. Groups of up to 20 can be accommodated from Sunday to Thursday with a pre-order and minimum spend. Booking is through the official website, which also publishes the menu and the live music programme. Nightjar keeps late hours, so check the website for opening times on the night you plan to visit.

Nightjar is on City Road, right next to Old Street station on the Northern line and National Rail, so it is easy to reach from the City and the West End. The bars, restaurants and street art of Shoreditch are a short walk east, and Hoxton Square, Silicon Roundabout and the Barbican are all close by.