The American Bar at The Savoy Hotel
Alessandro Scire CalabrisottoShare
The Savoy Hotel – American Bar, London, UK
The American Bar at London’s iconic Savoy Hotel is not only one of the most famous cocktail bars in the world but also one of the longest-running, with roots dating back to 1893. This historic bar has played a pivotal role in shaping cocktail culture and remains a beacon of elegance, innovation, and exceptional service. With its rich history, the American Bar has hosted some of the most celebrated figures in hospitality and has inspired countless bartenders around the globe. Each era has seen it adapt and evolve while honoring the traditions that have made it legendary.
From the moment guests step into the American Bar, they’re greeted by an atmosphere that combines classic elegance with modern luxury. The Art Deco decor, adorned with black and white photos of jazz legends and film stars, transports patrons to a different era. The bar’s grand piano often fills the space with live jazz, creating an ambiance that is both lively and intimate, an invitation to relax and savor each sip. Despite its fame and grandeur, the American Bar maintains a warm and welcoming vibe, offering patrons an experience that feels exclusive yet approachable.
The American Bar’s cocktail program is as refined and storied as the bar itself. It’s known for crafting timeless classics, many of which have become global icons. The Savoy Cocktail Book, published in 1930 and written by Harry Craddock—one of the American Bar’s most celebrated bartenders—remains a seminal text in cocktail culture. This book documented over 700 recipes, from the dry martini to the White Lady, many of which were either invented or perfected at the American Bar. Craddock, alongside bartending legends like Ada “Coley” Coleman, helped establish the bar as a leader in cocktail innovation. Coleman’s creation, the Hanky Panky, a blend of gin, vermouth, and Fernet Branca, is one of the many cocktails that originated here and remains popular today.
Today, the American Bar honors this legacy while continuing to innovate. Each new menu reflects a unique concept, often inspired by London’s culture, music, or history. The team behind the bar puts meticulous thought into each cocktail, creating not just drinks but experiences that reflect the sophistication and creativity for which the American Bar is known. Whether reinterpreting a classic or crafting a modern original, the bartenders take immense pride in their work, elevating every drink to an art form. Cocktails are often served with elegant garnishes and in glassware designed to enhance the experience, each drink a visual as well as a sensory delight.
But it’s not only the drinks that draw patrons to the American Bar—it’s also the exceptional level of service. The staff is highly trained, knowledgeable, and attentive, striking a perfect balance between professionalism and warmth. Bartenders and waitstaff are always eager to share the story behind each cocktail, making the experience as educational as it is enjoyable. Their deep understanding of the bar’s history and cocktails transforms each visit into a journey through time, where patrons can learn about the art of mixology and the bar’s legacy.
In recent years, the American Bar has continued to receive accolades, often ranking as one of the best bars in the world. Despite the changing landscape of the bar industry and the rise of contemporary cocktail culture, the American Bar remains a timeless institution. It is a place where tradition meets innovation, where the past is celebrated, and the future of cocktails is continuously explored. This blend of old and new has kept the American Bar relevant for over a century, drawing guests from around the world who come to experience the magic for themselves.
For anyone who appreciates history, elegance, and craftsmanship, a visit to the American Bar at The Savoy is more than just a stop for a drink; it’s a step into the very heart of cocktail culture. Whether enjoying a classic martini, a signature drink with a modern twist, or one of the bar’s historical cocktails, every sip tells a story. The American Bar is not only a destination—it’s an experience, an homage to the legacy of cocktails, and a testament to the timeless allure of true hospitality.
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