London’s cocktail bar scene is hardly lacking in flair, but we’re always happy to welcome a little more – and flair is exactly what you’ll get at new drinking, dining, and dancing spot INCA. Part high-end restaurant, part cabaret experience, this new joint aims to bring a little Latin American flair to town, and turn any night out into a true adventure. With eye-catching decor and a menu stuffed with intriguing dishes, there’s plenty to get excited about here. So, let’s take a look inside…
INCA is right at the heart of the action, quite literally: the bar is found on Argyll Street, next to the London Palladium and a stone’s throw away from Oxford Circus. The hustle and bustle of central London dies away as you descend into the sumptuously decorated bar, replaced by the lively camaraderie of friends and strangers alike gathering together to drink great cocktails, eat great food, and watch the entertainment unfold on stage.
The venue takes its inspiration from the Incan fascination with light and dark, and the sun and moon. That translates into a winding staircase decorated with Brazilian-style tiles inviting you into the bustling restaurant, and the Latin-inspired artwork and softly-lit features of the Night Lounge, a more relaxed affair. Taking centre stage in the restaurant is the performance area, where the theatrical performances and unique entertainment kick off at 7pm sharp.
As the performers dazzle and delight on stage, your focus will likely turn eagerly to your plate, where INCA’s head chef Davide Alberti blends the authentic and the contemporary in his lineup of South American dishes. Tropical Carabineros Ceviche, with fresh and pickled exotic fruits, crispy corn twill, aguachile sauce, and marigold oil is an immediate stand out amongst the mains. Meanwhile, for dessert, we’re eyeing up the Inca Tulakalum and milk chocolate cigar tart, with smoked banana, salted caramel popcorn, and the utterly fascinating tobacco ice cream…
Your time in the Night Lounge is best spent with a drink in hand, and once again, INCA have got you covered. Try the La Salida de Sol, their riff on an Espresso Martini, or opt for the Pina Verde, where mezcal meets avocado and pineapple puree for an intriguingly sweet and smoky concoction. South American might be a world away from central London, but once you’re through the doors at INCA, you’ll feel as if you’ve stumbled into a hidden nightlife hangout of Buenos Aires or Rio de Janeiro.
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Also published on Medium.