LAB

LAB Bar – London’s Legendary Cocktail Lab of Mixology and Innovation

LAB Bar, short for the London Academy of Bartenders, was once a groundbreaking cocktail destination in London’s Soho neighborhood, famous for its inventive cocktails, influential bartenders, and vibrant atmosphere. Established in 1999, LAB quickly earned a reputation as one of London’s most innovative cocktail bars, transforming the city’s bar scene and helping to usher in a new era of mixology. Known for its bold flavor combinations, experimental techniques, and commitment to bartender training, LAB Bar became a go-to spot for cocktail enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, leaving a lasting impact on London’s cocktail culture.

Located in the heart of Soho, LAB Bar was a hub of creativity and experimentation. The bar’s founders, Douglas Ankrah and Richard Hargroves, were passionate about elevating the art of cocktails and set out to create a “laboratory” where bartenders could push boundaries and explore new techniques. LAB Bar was one of the first bars in London to embrace the craft of mixology fully, with a focus on quality ingredients, precise techniques, and attention to detail. This forward-thinking approach quickly made LAB Bar a favorite destination for those looking to experience London’s emerging cocktail scene.

LAB Bar’s cocktail menu was renowned for its vast selection and daring flavors, offering over 100 cocktails that ranged from classic recipes to bold, original creations. The menu featured unique combinations, unusual spirits, and fresh ingredients that made each drink a journey of flavor. LAB’s bartenders were encouraged to experiment with ingredients like exotic fruits, spices, and house-made syrups, resulting in cocktails that were as innovative as they were delicious. This adventurous spirit made LAB Bar a trendsetter in the industry, inspiring bartenders and bars around the world to embrace creativity in their craft.

One of LAB Bar’s signature cocktails, the Pornstar Martini, was invented by co-founder Douglas Ankrah and quickly became a sensation. Made with vodka, passion fruit, vanilla, and a shot of prosecco on the side, the Pornstar Martini became one of the bar’s most popular drinks and has since become a global cocktail icon. This cocktail exemplified LAB’s approach to mixology—playful, bold, and expertly crafted. The Pornstar Martini’s success helped solidify LAB Bar’s reputation and left an indelible mark on the cocktail world.

LAB Bar was also dedicated to the education and development of bartenders, making it a key training ground for some of the industry’s best talent. The bar’s name, the London Academy of Bartenders, reflected its commitment to nurturing bartenders’ skills and knowledge. Many of LAB’s alumni went on to become influential figures in the cocktail world, opening their own bars and contributing to the global mixology movement. LAB Bar’s legacy can be seen in the careers of countless bartenders who credit their time at LAB as a formative experience in their journey through the world of cocktails.

The interior of LAB Bar was as lively and eclectic as its menu, with neon lights, graffiti-style artwork, and a bustling, high-energy vibe. The bar’s atmosphere was both relaxed and electric, attracting a diverse crowd of cocktail lovers, from locals to international visitors. LAB’s unique style and vibrant energy made it a favorite among London’s nightlife spots, a place where patrons could enjoy expertly crafted drinks in an environment that was fun, stylish, and unpretentious.

Although LAB Bar closed its doors in 2016, its influence on London’s cocktail culture remains significant. LAB was one of the first bars to bring the concept of mixology to the mainstream in London, inspiring a new generation of cocktail bars that embrace creativity, technique, and quality. Its impact can still be felt in the city’s thriving cocktail scene, where bartenders continue to experiment and push boundaries, honoring the spirit of innovation that LAB Bar embodied.

For many in the cocktail world, LAB Bar represents an important chapter in the evolution of London’s bar scene. It was a place where cocktails became more than just drinks—they became expressions of artistry, creativity, and passion. LAB Bar’s legacy lives on in the techniques, recipes, and inspirations that continue to shape the world of mixology, making it a symbol of London’s dynamic and ever-evolving cocktail culture. While LAB may no longer operate, its impact endures, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved when bartenders are given the freedom to experiment, innovate, and elevate their craft.

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