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Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho: A Speakeasy Gem in London’s Chinatown

Discover a hidden speakeasy in Soho’s Chinatown offering award-winning cocktails, dim sum delights, and a journey through vintage and modern mixology.

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Nestled behind a secret jade door on Gerrard Street, Opium Cocktail Bar offers a unique three-level speakeasy experience blending Chinese-inspired décor with modern mixology. Renowned for its award-winning cocktails, dim sum, and immersive ambiance, Opium combines vintage charm and contemporary flair across its Apothecary, Peony, and Attic & Academy bars. This upscale venue invites guests to indulge in expertly crafted drinks and a multi-sensory journey in the heart of Soho’s vibrant Chinatown.

A brief summary to Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho

  • 15-16 Gerrard St, London, W1D 6JE, GB
  • +442077347276
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Luxury
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 5 pm-1 am
  • Tuesday 5 pm-1 am
  • Wednesday 5 pm-1 am
  • Thursday 5 pm-2 am
  • Friday 5 pm-2:30 am
  • Saturday 5 pm-2:30 am
  • Sunday 5 pm-12 am

Local tips

  • Reserve in advance to secure a spot in the intimate Peony Bar, especially for weekend evenings.
  • Try pairing dim sum with one of Opium’s signature cocktails for a unique culinary experience.
  • Visit during Aperitivo Hours (5pm–7pm) for special cocktail prices and festive seasonal menus.
  • Ask the bartenders about molecular mixology techniques for an engaging behind-the-scenes experience.
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Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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A Hidden Entrance to a Multi-Level Cocktail Experience

Tucked behind an unassuming jade door on Gerrard Street, Opium Cocktail Bar transports visitors into a secret world of 1920s Shanghai-inspired glamour fused with modern sophistication. The venue spans three distinct floors, each offering a unique atmosphere and cocktail experience. The journey begins at the Apothecary Bar, where retro medicinal bottles line the shelves, evoking the feel of an old-world apothecary. This main bar features a blend of formal and informal seating, allowing guests to enjoy both intimate conversations and lively socializing.

The Peony Bar: An Intimate Oriental Hideaway

On the second floor lies the Peony Bar, a hidden gem concealed behind red curtains and designed as a luxurious Hong Kong-style drinking den. With its intricate Chinoiserie décor and maze-like skylight, this cozy space accommodates up to 30 guests and offers a curated menu of innovative cocktails alongside classic favorites. The Peony Bar’s intimate setting makes it perfect for private gatherings or a quiet escape within the bustling venue.

The Attic & Academy Bar: A Mixologist’s Playground

Ascending to the top floor, the Attic & Academy Bar presents a welcoming, family-like ambiance framed by Oriental memorabilia and nostalgic photographs. This space features comfortable armchairs, low coffee tables, and intimate booths, inviting guests to relax and savor their drinks. The open-plan kitchen-style layout includes a bartenders’ table where visitors can watch master mixologists craft cocktails using cutting-edge techniques, including molecular mixology.

A Culinary Fusion of Dim Sum and Cocktails

Opium stands out by pairing its cocktail offerings with a selection of dim sum, served from early evening until late into the night. This fusion of Chinese flavors and expertly crafted drinks creates a distinctive dining and drinking experience. The cocktail menus themselves are works of art, showcasing signature creations like the Naked Negroni and Sparkling Pearls, alongside a core collection of timeless classics. Seasonal specials and festive menus add further variety throughout the year.

Design, Atmosphere, and Cultural Significance

The design concept at Opium blends antique and modern furnishings, fine art, and cultural motifs to create a visually stunning environment. Each floor’s décor tells a story, from the apothecary’s vintage bottles to the Peony’s oriental elegance and the Attic’s nostalgic warmth. This artistic approach enhances the immersive experience, making Opium not just a bar but a cultural landmark within London’s Chinatown.

Service and Experience Highlights

Known for impeccable service and a welcoming atmosphere, Opium offers guests an opportunity to engage with expert bartenders and learn the secrets behind their craft. The venue’s layout caters to different moods, whether seeking a lively night out, a romantic evening, or a quiet spot to appreciate fine cocktails and dim sum. Its location in Soho’s vibrant Chinatown district adds to its allure as a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

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