Below Travel Guide

Below at HIDE is tucked away beneath the Michelin-starred HIDE restaurant on 85 Piccadilly, offering a secretive retreat from the busy streets of central London. This subterranean bar is accessed via a spiral staircase leading down to a dimly lit, elegant space where concrete and wood create a modern yet warm ambiance. Its location beneath one of London’s most prestigious restaurants adds an air of exclusivity, making it a sought-after spot for discerning patrons looking for a sophisticated drinking experience.

The bar’s cocktail menu is a showcase of creativity and precision, curated by renowned mixologist Oskar Kinberg. Emphasizing flavor above all, Below offers a rotating seasonal menu alongside classic cocktails with unique twists, such as a Martini shaken with frozen birch sap for a silky finish. Whether you prefer light, fresh concoctions or stronger, more robust drinks, the menu caters to varied tastes, with options including the tropical Jungle VIP and the zingy Last Train To Tokyo. The focus on seasonal ingredients ensures each drink is crafted at its peak flavor.

Below boasts an impressive collection of the world’s finest and rarest spirits, including vintage whiskies like Macallan 25YO Anniversary Malt 1971 and exotic selections such as Yamazaki Tsukuriwake whisky. This extensive offering appeals to spirit enthusiasts seeking unique tasting experiences. Additionally, the bar benefits from its connection to Hedonism Wines, one of London’s premier wine merchants, providing access to over 450 carefully selected bottles. Guests can enjoy these exceptional wines alongside their cocktails or as a standalone indulgence.

The interior design of Below balances cool industrial elements with inviting wooden features, creating a moody yet comfortable environment. The curved bar stretches along one wall, opposite a vast wine cellar, encouraging interaction with skilled mixologists and fellow guests. The lighting and layout foster intimacy, making it ideal for quiet conversations, dates, or small gatherings. For those seeking privacy, Below offers three distinct private dining rooms: The Broken Room, The Shadow Room, and The Reading Room, each providing exclusive environments for special occasions.

Below is primarily an after-work and evening destination, opening from midday on weekdays and noon on weekends until midnight. Its clientele often includes Mayfair’s professional elite, looking for a refined spot to unwind or enjoy a nightcap after dining upstairs or elsewhere. The dress code leans towards smart casual, reflecting the bar’s sophisticated setting. Complementing the drinks, Below offers a selection of bar snacks such as soft-shell crab tempura and charcoal-baked flatbread, enhancing the overall experience.

While Below operates as a distinct cocktail bar, it is intricately linked to the Michelin-starred HIDE restaurant above. Guests can transition seamlessly between the two, enjoying world-class dining followed by expertly mixed drinks in a relaxed subterranean setting. This synergy creates a comprehensive luxury hospitality experience, combining culinary excellence with innovative mixology in the heart of London’s West End.