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.
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
-
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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mary Poppins Statue
0.2 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Shaftesbury Ave
0.2 km
Discover London’s vibrant Shaftesbury Avenue, the epicenter of the West End's theatre scene, offering a myriad of shows, dining, and nightlife options.
Cecil Court
0.3 km
Step into a cobbled alley where books, history, and magic converge in the heart of London.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.3 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.3 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
London's dazzling heart: iconic neon lights, legendary Eros statue, and the pulsing epicentre of West End entertainment.
Goodwin’s Court
0.4 km
Experience the serene charm of Goodwin's Court, a historic landmark in London, perfect for leisurely strolls and captivating photography.
#O hello sunshine Public Art Sculpture
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant O Hello Sunshine sculpture in London, a historical landmark that embodies creativity and community spirit amidst the city's artistic landscape.
Historic Seven Dials
0.4 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Seven Dials
0.4 km
A star-shaped Georgian quarter blending historic charm with contemporary culture, boutiques, and dining.
Slingsby Place
0.4 km
Explore Slingsby Place, a serene scenic point in London, offering lush greenery and stunning architecture perfect for relaxation and memorable photographs.
Soho Square Gardens
0.4 km
Explore the calming beauty of Soho Square Gardens, a lush park in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
0.4 km
Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sondheim Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, home to Les Misérables and named for Stephen Sondheim after a stunning 2019 restoration.
St Anne's Churchyard
0.1 km
A serene historic garden in Soho, resting on centuries of rich cultural and social heritage beneath its raised grounds.
Chinatown Gate
0.1 km
Step through the ornate Qing Dynasty–style Chinatown Gate into Soho’s vibrant heart, where tradition and modern London life blend in a colorful cultural enclave.
Prince Charles Cinema
0.1 km
Discover London's iconic independent repertory cinema offering cult classics, arthouse gems, and unforgettable themed screenings in the heart of Leicester Square.
The Blue Posts
0.1 km
A historic Soho pub blending classic charm with sleek modernity, offering lively drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of London’s West End.
Gielgud Theatre
0.1 km
Experience world-class theatre in the intimate, historic Gielgud Theatre nestled in London’s vibrant West End.
London self-guided board game tour
0.1 km
Explore London’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems through a fun, interactive self-guided board game tour at your own pace.
Curzon Soho
0.1 km
Discover independent cinema culture in the heart of Soho with stylish screenings, cozy cafés, and a vibrant social scene at Curzon Soho.
M&M'S London
0.1 km
Discover the colorful world of M&M'S in London, where every visit is a sweet adventure filled with chocolate delights and interactive fun.
London Self-Guided Walking Tour
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the vibrant heart of Soho, London’s cultural melting pot.
Apollo Theatre
0.1 km
Experience intimate West End theatre magic in the historic Apollo Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, a Renaissance-style gem with superb views and rich heritage.
Duke Of Wellington
0.1 km
Victorian heritage meets Soho nightlife at this Grade II listed pub on iconic Wardour Street.
Leicester Square
0.1 km
Discover Leicester Square, London's vibrant entertainment hub, rich with theaters, dining, and lively street performances, perfect for tourists seeking excitement.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Admiral Duncan, Soho's iconic bar and pub, celebrating inclusivity and entertainment in the heart of London.
Vue Cinema London - West End (Leicester Square)
0.1 km
Experience cutting-edge cinema luxury and immersive screenings in the vibrant heart of London’s Leicester Square.
Essential places to dine
Meet Fresh
0.1 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Evelyn's Table
0.1 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Gauthier Soho
0.1 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Hoppers Soho
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Blacklock Soho
0.2 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Bantof
0.2 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
J Sheekey
0.3 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Quo Vadis
0.3 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Kricket Soho
0.3 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Mele e Pere
0.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Noble Rot Soho
0.3 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.4 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Boutik
0.1 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
Cool Britania
0.1 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.2 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Machine-A
0.2 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Unique Britain
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Charing Cross Rd
0.2 km
Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.2 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.3 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.3 km
Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.3 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Foyles
0.3 km
London's legendary independent bookshop where literary heritage meets contemporary retail excellence.
Lillywhites
0.3 km
London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
Sounds of the Universe
0.3 km
Discover a world of diverse vinyl and music culture at Soho’s iconic Sounds of the Universe record store.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.0 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Ku Bar
0.1 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
The Black Book
0.2 km
Soho's clandestine basement wine bar, pouring rare vintages by the glass alongside Mediterranean bites in a former members' club hideout—perfect for late-night indulgence.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.2 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
The Thin White Duke
0.2 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
The Spice Of Life
0.2 km
Historic Soho pub and live music venue blending traditional charm with vibrant nightlife and boutique hotel comforts.
Duke of Argyll
0.2 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.2 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Bar Termini
0.2 km
An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
Swift Soho
0.2 km
Soho's split-level cocktail gem: aperitivo elegance upstairs, whisky-laced intimacy below, with live jazz and legendary mixes drawing night owls to Old Compton Street.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.3 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Simmons Bar | Soho
0.3 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.3 km
Dive into Covent Garden's dual-world party den: prohibition cocktails below, live piano magic above—West End's ultimate nightlife hideaway for cocktails, cabaret, and endless sing-alongs. (162 characters)
Thirst Bar Soho
0.3 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
The Little Scarlet Door
0.3 km
Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Penthouse London
0.1 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Sophisticats Soho
0.2 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.2 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.2 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Box Soho
0.2 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Luxe Club
0.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Tiger Tiger London
0.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Club49Soho
0.3 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
The Ivy Club
0.3 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
La Capannina Club
0.3 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.3 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
St Moritz Club
0.4 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Sunset night club
0.4 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.4 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
0.5 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly