Punch Room: London's Intimate Craft Cocktail Sanctuary

A Modern Revival of Historic Punch Traditions

Punch Room revives the rich heritage of punch, a communal drink with roots tracing back to 17th-century trade ships and aristocratic garden parties. The bar celebrates this legacy by blending spirits from Europe and the colonies, spices and citrus from Africa and Asia, and teas from China and India, all harmonized into unique, globally inspired flavor profiles. This approach honors punch’s historic role as a social and sensory experience while pushing the boundaries of contemporary mixology.

Design and Atmosphere: A Cozy, Exclusive Hideaway

Located at 10 Berners Street, the venue exudes the charm of an old English parlour updated with mid-century modern touches. Guests enter through a wood-paneled door beyond a vaulted marble lobby and neon sculpture, settling into plush armchairs by a roaring fireplace. The intimate setting, with its warm wood tones and refined décor, evokes the feel of a private 19th-century club, offering an exclusive retreat from the bustling Soho area nearby.

Innovative Cocktail Menu with Signature Punches

The Punch Room’s menu, known as The Recipe Book, features both long-standing favorites and inventive new concoctions. Signature drinks include the Milk Punch—a complex blend of Hennessy fine de Cognac, Havana Club rum, Somerset cider brandy, green tea, pineapple, spices, and milk—crafted with a meticulous process that clarifies and softens the flavors. Other highlights are the Ingenue Punch, inspired by the Jazz Age, and the All American Punch, each showcasing a unique balance of spirits, tea infusions, and aromatic ingredients.

Gourmet Bites Complementing the Drinks

The bar also offers a selection of elevated bar snacks designed to complement the punch cocktails. Options range from marinated olives and crispy bravas to lobster rolls and angus beef tartares. These thoughtfully curated small plates enhance the tasting experience, marrying bold flavors with the intricate cocktails.

Exclusive Experience and Practical Details

Punch Room operates Tuesday through Saturday from 5 pm to 12:30 am, maintaining a reservations-only policy that preserves its intimate ambiance. The price point is on the higher side, reflecting the quality and craftsmanship of the drinks and service. The venue is perfect for cocktail aficionados seeking a sophisticated, quiet environment to savor expertly prepared punches in central London.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Beyond its role as a cocktail bar, Punch Room stands as a cultural homage to the art of punch-making, blending history, craftsmanship, and innovation. It invites guests to explore the evolution of punch from its colonial and aristocratic origins to its modern reinterpretation, making each visit both a sensory and educational journey.