There are very few things that we Secret Londoners enjoy more than having a thorough rummage through our treasure trove of a city to uncover the twinkliest gems of all. But I’m not going to deny the fact that it’s also pretty darn delightful when the hard work is done for us. And the cocktail connoisseurs over at the Pinnacle Guide have just saved us a job by pointing us in the direction of the best cocktail bars in the whole world.
They’ve recently released the latest edition of their guide – which is kind of like the Michelin Guide, but for cocktail bars. Instead of stars, the Pinnacle Guide dishes out ‘pins’, and a bar can be awarded either 1, 2, or 3 pins, depending on whether it is considered excellent, outstanding, or down-right exceptional. Bars are carefully assessed across 8 areas of excellence, including atmosphere, hospitality, design, and – of course – drinks.
192 cocktail bars from across the globe have earned themselves a sought-after spot on the list since it launched in 2024; 33 of which are in the capital city. What I plan on waxing lyrical about for the next few moments, however, are the three lavish London locales that are the most recent recipients of a prestigious pin (or two).
The Emory Rooftop Bar
The Emory Rooftop Bar was the only London cocktail bar to be awarded with two pins in the latest edition of the Pinnacle Guide. This jaw-droppingly gorgeous rooftop bar can be found on top of – you guessed it, folks – The Emory Hotel (which is also no stranger to an accolade, having been hailed one of the best new hotels in the world last year). This beautiful Belgravia bar boasts a delicious cocktail menu which was created in collaboration with well-renowned mixologist, Tato Giovannoni. It also serves up some of the best views in the entire city.
The American Bar at The Savoy
London’s oldest surviving cocktail bar was also awarded a pin recently. The American Bar at The Savoy requires no introduction, really. It’s iconic, it’s opulent, and it’s packed full of history, having occupied its space inside the Savoy since 1893. The American Bar was particularly praised for its warm and welcoming atmosphere and impressive sustainability practises.
St James Bar
Last but not least, we have the St James Bar, which also managed to get its hands on a coveted ‘pin’. Another bar set within a swanky hotel, this speak-easy style bar innovatively blends British and French flavours to create an exciting menu of mixology. The service here was hailed ‘spot on’ by the Pinnacle team, and the bar was also commended for its sustainability and positive social impact.
You can find out more about the Pinnacle Guide and peruse the full list of pinned bars here.