Cecil’s

I first came here as part of a sort of treasure hunt — didn’t have time to hang around but noted it to come back later. I returned this evening after work (it’s very close to London Bridge station).
Firstly, I love the entrance — it’s so secluded and I definitely wouldn’t have found it if I hadn’t known about it. Having said that, it might be a little too hush hush — when I was there, we were the only clientèle. I think things might get busier later in the evening or on weekends judging by the other reviews, but unfortunately having a reasonably large space so empty meant it lacked some atmosphere. Other speakeasy type bars I have been to have been a lot more cosy, so this wouldn’t be as noticeable, but it does have an impact in this space.
Still, I enjoyed how the candles led down the stairs into a smart and interesting venue. I enjoyed my cocktail, a gin collins, but thought the menu was a little repetitive — the same sorts of spirits and flavours reappeared a lot in the selection, so I was quite limited in my choice because I’m not a fan of whisky, for example. It’s quite pricey but not unexpected for this sort of establishment in Central London.
I’d definitely bring people here to show them somewhere a bit out of the ordinary, but I don’t think I’d return for my own benefit.

I really liked the sound of this venue. A thirties style speakeasy club set in Shanghai. We were promised that we would be «transported to a cocktail party hosted by Mr Cecil Russell George Uff esq. Who entertains his guests in the courtyard of his art deco residence. With live Jazz and our most wonderful cocktails. The full shebang»
So we dressed up, and arrived at the appointed time. First impressions were good. The staff were friendly, welcoming and in character. We were given a cup of «tea» to start and after that we were to order our own cocktails.
The «tea» was fairly lacking in alcohol but tasted alright. The cocktails were lovely but expensive. A few of these will leave your purse far lighter than when you arrived.
The table service was sporadic at best so we ordered from the bar ourselves but the queues were so long and the service so appallingly slow we didn’t do it too often — still it did help to save money.
The music was really good but not at all thirties which we were expecting. Perhaps if it was advertised for what it was, a good live music band rather than the expectation of a nostalgic thirties night I would have enjoyed it rather than feeling deflated.
On paying my tab I was charged 12.5% service charge — considering we went to the bar for all our drinks I wasn’t happy about this and asked them to take it off the bill.
My review will imply that this was not a good night at all, and to be honest it was fun and everyone was dancing, but it did not meet the expectations set whatsoever so it was disappointing and topped up with the worst bar service I’ve seen in a long time it left me deflated. I don’t think I’ll be rushing back.

In a hidden warehouse just behind London Bridge station you can step into decadent 1930s Shanghai.
At weekends they have an amazing Jazz band that will soon get you off your feet and dancing to some old classics, until the DJ comes out to keep you dancing into the small hours.
Great cocktails and friendly staff — all dressed for the occasion.
Glam yourselves up and go for a top night out!