Blame Gloria – Vibrant Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden

A Basement Bar with a Legendary Muse

Blame Gloria is a unique cocktail bar located beneath the streets of Covent Garden, London, in a space that was once a public toilet. The bar draws inspiration from Gloria, a 1960s muse and legendary groupie who mingled with rock icons like Jimi Hendrix and David Bowie. This backstory permeates the venue’s character, which is drenched in neon lights, psychedelic prints, and rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia. The interior features exposed brickwork, plush velvet booths, and an iconic TV wall, creating a vibrant den of debauchery and nostalgia.

Eclectic Cocktails and Themed Events

Blame Gloria’s cocktail menu is a highlight, featuring both classic favorites and retro-inspired creations. Signature drinks include the Porn Star Martini, Flaming Zombie, and Pineapple Negroni, alongside inventive options like the Purple Haze and Ziggy’s Stardust. The bar is also famous for its wild themed bottomless brunches, where guests enjoy endless drinks, drag performances, lip-sync battles, and dance-offs. Happy hour specials offer 2-for-1 cocktails, bottles of bubbles, and affordable beers, making it a hotspot for both early evening and late-night revelry.

Atmosphere and Social Vibe

The atmosphere at Blame Gloria is electric and playful, with a strong emphasis on visual and sensory experiences. Neon pink strip lights, colorful acid-trip prints, and disco balls in the restrooms create an immersive environment. The bar attracts a selfie-loving crowd, with cameras and TV screens amplifying the party vibe. Despite the lively setting, the venue is split into two rooms, which can sometimes create a dynamic where performances and music in one room contrast with quieter moments in the other.

Location and Cultural Context

Situated at 20 Bedford Street in Covent Garden, Blame Gloria benefits from its central London location, close to major theaters and nightlife hubs. The area is renowned for its vibrant entertainment scene, making the bar a perfect afterparty destination following shows or dinners. Its proximity to Covent Garden and Leicester Square tube stations adds to its accessibility, drawing a diverse crowd from locals to tourists.

Unique Features and Visitor Experience

One of the standout features of Blame Gloria is its quirky, disco-themed restrooms, which include dance anthems and cheeky messages on the walls. The bar’s commitment to themed events and performances, such as the ABBA vs. Bottomless Brunch and 90s Retro Brunch, adds layers of entertainment beyond just drinks. This makes it an ideal spot for celebrations, group outings, and those seeking a memorable night out with a retro rock twist.

Community and Hospitality

Blame Gloria fosters a sense of community with its Inner Circle membership offering perks like free welcome drinks and birthday gifts. The staff are known for swift service, although some visitors note varying experiences with friendliness. The bar’s dedication to creating a fun, inclusive environment is reflected in its lively events and welcoming vibe, making it a staple in London’s cocktail scene.