Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho: A 1920s Shanghai Speakeasy Experience in London’s Chinatown

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Chinatown

Located on 15-16 Gerrard Street, Opium Cocktail Bar is a captivating destination that transports visitors to the glamour and intrigue of 1920s Shanghai. Concealed behind a jade door, the venue’s entrance sets the tone for an immersive speakeasy experience. This multi-level bar complex is a standout in Soho, combining the vibrancy of Chinatown with the elegance of a bygone era, enhanced by modern artistic touches and a curated cocktail culture.

Distinctive Multi-Level Ambience and Design

Opium spans three floors, each offering a unique atmosphere and style. The ground floor features the Apothecary Bar, designed with a vintage medicine cabinet aesthetic that complements its inventive cocktail menu. The second floor houses the Peony Bar, a secretive and intimate space hidden behind red curtains, adorned with Chinoiserie décor reminiscent of old-world Hong Kong. At the top, the Attic & Academy Bar presents a cozy lounge with plush armchairs, low tables, and nostalgic Oriental memorabilia, providing guests a homely yet sophisticated environment to enjoy bespoke cocktails crafted by expert mixologists.

Innovative Cocktails and Authentic Dim Sum

Opium is celebrated for its creative cocktail offerings, which blend classic recipes with molecular mixology techniques and unusual ingredients. Signature drinks like the Sparkling Pearls and Naked Negroni exemplify the bar’s dedication to craftsmanship and flavor innovation. Complementing the drinks is an authentic dim sum menu served in traditional bamboo steamers, featuring Cantonese classics such as Har Gau, Siu Mai, and pork buns. This pairing of refined cocktails with delicate Asian bites creates a distinctive dining and drinking experience rarely found in London.

Atmosphere and Service

The bar’s ambiance is a harmonious blend of cozy intimacy and lively energy, enhanced by warm lighting, plush seating, and artistic décor that celebrates Chinese heritage and 1920s aesthetics. Service at Opium is noted for being attentive and knowledgeable, with bartenders offering personalized cocktail recommendations. The venue’s layout, with its secluded corners and varied seating styles, caters both to intimate gatherings and small groups seeking a memorable night out.

Events and Experiences

Beyond regular service, Opium offers cocktail masterclasses with their Master Mixologist, allowing guests to learn the secrets behind their signature drinks. Seasonal menus and special pre-theatre offerings make it a favored spot for celebrations and evenings out in Soho. The venue’s design and cocktail artistry also make it a popular choice for those seeking a unique and photogenic nightlife experience.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in central London’s bustling Soho district, Opium is easily accessible by public transport and is surrounded by the eclectic energy of Chinatown. Its discreet entrance and multi-floor layout provide a sense of exclusivity and discovery, making it a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.