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Prelude by Oriole: Innovative Cocktails and Culinary Art in Covent Garden

A sophisticated Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American-inspired cuisine, and live jazz in a stylish, intimate setting.

4.7

Prelude by Oriole is a chic cocktail bar located at 23 Slingsby Place, London, blending inventive drinks with artistic dining in a stylish, Asian-inspired setting. Known for exceptional service and a creative menu featuring unique flavor combinations, it offers a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere with live jazz and world music enhancing the experience. The bar is part of the acclaimed Oriole brand, celebrated for its global cocktail journey and culinary craftsmanship.

A brief summary to Prelude by Oriole

  • 23 Slingsby Pl, London, WC2E 9AB, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Luxury
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Wednesday 5 pm-11 pm
  • Thursday 5 pm-11 pm
  • Friday 5 pm-12 am
  • Saturday 5 pm-12 am

Local tips

  • Book tables in advance, especially for evenings with live music, as the venue is popular and seating can be limited.
  • Try the signature cocktails like the Mizuwari or Chinca Alta to experience the bar’s unique global flavor journey.
  • Enjoy the ‘Dinner and Show’ package for a curated meal paired with live jazz, which includes a cocktail and three courses.
  • Visit the Bamboo Bar upstairs for a more casual atmosphere without live music, perfect for aperitifs or relaxed gatherings.
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Prelude by Oriole location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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A Fusion of Flavor and Atmosphere

Prelude by Oriole stands out in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden as a cocktail bar that transcends the usual drinking experience. The venue combines a sleek, Asian-inspired aesthetic with a warm, inviting ambiance. Soft lighting and carefully curated decor create an intimate setting where guests can enjoy not only expertly crafted cocktails but also a sensory dining experience. The buzz of live jazz and world music adds a dynamic layer to the atmosphere, making it a lively yet sophisticated retreat from the city bustle.

Exceptional Craftsmanship in Cocktails and Cuisine

The bar is renowned for its innovative cocktail menu, which takes patrons on a global journey through flavors. Signature drinks like the Mizuwari, blending Highland Park whisky with chocolate miso and Hojoicha tea, and the Chinca Alta, featuring Pisco and absinthe, showcase the creativity and precision behind each concoction. Complementing the drinks is a culinary menu developed by chef Gustavo Giallonardo, featuring dishes that fuse Latin American and Nikkei influences. Standout plates include shiitake mushrooms with egg yolk and arepa, delica pumpkin with green curry ice cream, and coconut tres leches with fig leaf sauce.

Design and Layout Enhancing the Experience

Spread across two levels, Prelude by Oriole offers distinct spaces catering to different moods. The upper Bamboo Bar features a casual yet elegant environment with Brazilian quartzite bar and cherry-red banquettes, ideal for aperitifs or post-work drinks without live music. Descending to the basement reveals a plush, speakeasy-style lounge with tropical murals and a stage for live performances, evoking a sense of timeless glamour. The design thoughtfully balances intimacy with sophistication, encouraging guests to linger and savor both drink and sound.

Service and Hospitality Excellence

Service at Prelude by Oriole is frequently noted for its attentiveness and warmth, reminiscent of Italian hospitality. Staff are knowledgeable and passionate about the menu, enhancing the guest experience by guiding selections and ensuring comfort. This high level of service complements the bar’s creative offerings and contributes to its reputation as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Live Music and Cultural Vibes

Live jazz, blues, and world music performances are integral to Prelude by Oriole’s identity. Scheduled from Wednesday to Saturday evenings, the music enriches the atmosphere, creating a vibrant cultural hub within Covent Garden. A cover charge supports the musicians directly, emphasizing the venue’s commitment to authentic live entertainment. This blend of music and mixology invites guests into a unique, immersive nightlife experience.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the bustling Slingsby Place development, Prelude by Oriole benefits from its prime West End location near Leicester Square and other theatres. It is an ideal spot for pre- or post-theatre drinks and dining, offering a refined alternative to typical London pubs. The venue’s layout and ambiance cater to both casual visitors and those seeking a special night out, with a focus on quality, creativity, and cultural engagement.

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