Oriole: Covent Garden’s Globally Inspired Cocktail Sanctuary

A Revival of a Legendary Cocktail Experience

Oriole has reemerged in Covent Garden’s vibrant Slingsby Place, restoring its reputation as one of London’s premier cocktail destinations. Originally famed for its subterranean speakeasy beneath Smithfield Market, the bar has been thoughtfully relocated and redesigned to enhance its immersive atmosphere. The new venue retains the spirit of adventure and global exploration that made Oriole a beloved haunt, while introducing fresh energy and sophistication. Its carefully curated decor features tropical-chic elements and a collection of exotic artefacts, evoking the glamour and mystery of bygone eras of travel and discovery.

A Journey Through Global Flavours in Every Cocktail

The cocktail menu is a passport to the world, with each drink crafted as a narrative of distant lands and cultures. Signature cocktails like the “Silk Road,” blending gin, jasmine tea, and lychee, or the “Andean Odyssey,” featuring pisco and purple corn, showcase Oriole’s dedication to innovative, story-driven mixology. The bar also offers unique creations such as the Mizuwari—a whisky cocktail infused with chocolate miso and cold-brewed tea—and the Acadia, inspired by a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, complex and satisfying mocktails are also available. This global approach is matched by the skill and creativity of the mixologists, who transform every drink into an experience.

Latin American Fusion Cuisine to Complement the Drinks

Oriole’s culinary offerings are a standout feature, elevating the cocktail bar to a full dining destination. The menu, crafted by Argentine head chef Gustavo Giallonardo, focuses on Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian), Argentine-Italian, and Latin American fusion dishes. Highlights include hamachi tiradito with kimchi aguachile, lamb rump with Peruvian black mint and spring greens, and sea trout with beurre blanc and trout roe. Small plates inspired by global street food, such as Moroccan lamb koftas and Korean barbecue sliders, perfectly accompany the drinks. The food balances bold flavours with refined presentation, making it ideal for sharing and pairing with cocktails.

Atmosphere and Ambience That Transports You

The two-level venue offers distinct yet complementary spaces. Upstairs, the Bamboo Bar provides a casual, aperitivo-style environment with a Brazilian quartzite bar and a relaxed vibe. Descend to the basement, and you enter the plush, speakeasy-style main bar, where live jazz, blues, and swing music set the mood. The lighting and sound are finely tuned to create an intimate yet lively atmosphere, enhanced by the bar’s unique collection of curiosities and murals depicting exotic landscapes. This blend of elegance and warmth makes Oriole perfect for both special occasions and casual evenings.

Innovative Spirit and Future Prospects

Oriole continues to push boundaries with its own bar lab dedicated to experimentation and innovation. This commitment promises new and exciting cocktail creations that will keep the experience fresh and dynamic. The team’s passion for storytelling through drinks and food ensures that every visit offers something new to discover, maintaining Oriole’s status as a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Location and Cultural Significance

Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, Oriole benefits from a lively cultural setting renowned for theatre, dining, and nightlife. Its presence enriches the area’s vibrant scene by offering a sophisticated yet adventurous alternative to traditional pubs and bars. Oriole’s fusion of global influences reflects London’s cosmopolitan character, making it a microcosm of the city’s diversity and creativity in hospitality.