ONE of iconic cocktails bars on the London scene opened a brand new venue hidden in the heart of Soho. Launched over a decade ago in east London, Nightjar quickly became a favourite among Londoners with its glamorous atmosphere, late-night live music, prohibition-era decor and, of course, a range of lavish, innovative cocktails.
The new location in Kingly Court, similarly to its predecessor, evokes the Roaring Twenties atmosphere with the dim lighting, Art Deco interiors with a touch of soft rose gold and a bespoke illustrated glass panels by Mosley Thorold Archritects Ltd.
You can choose to sit at one of the small round tables facing the stage, where you can observe amazing live jazz, swing or blues performances or, alternatively, slip into the booth for a slightly more private spot for those who seek an intimate, romantic setting.
Nightjar Carnaby. Photograph:Â Andrew Meredith
The menu honour three historical eras starting with Pre-Prohibition, Prohibition and finishing at Post-War. The fans of the classic flavours will not be disappointed and will also find the Nightjar Signatures and the Sharing Cocktails section.
The extensive menu might seem a bit overwhelming, frankly because every single of the cocktails sounds beyond inviting, but apart from the descriptions you can also see three main flavours, which will dominate each drink to find your preferred tones.
Nightjar Carnaby. Photograph:Â Andrew Meredith
Pre-Prohibition includes early classics, with light, fruity options like Premier – based on Belvedere vodka with pennyroyal mint tincture, buchu liqueur, lemongrass & cardamon cordial topped with fresh lime and Moët & Chandon Brut champagne or slightly stronger and heavier cocktails like Aztec Tapache with more savoury notes made with Herradura, Chinotta & camomilla liquor, pineapple huacatay & purple corn tepacher, fino sherry and freshly squeezed lime juice.
Premier – Nightjar Carnaby
Short and stronger cocktails will be found in the Prohibition section with The Filmograph, refreshing but spiced drink based on Hennessy VS Cognac, Santiago de Cuba 8 yr, aecorn spiced, Barka Muscat Eau de Vie, discarded citrus & guarana cordian topped with ginger beer and fresh lime – which quickly became my personal favourite.
Nightjar – Name of the Samurai
Post-War offers twists on the latter-day classics from 30s and 40s Tiki age with more tropical flavours such as Lupita with Olmeca Altos Tequila, diamond lemon liqueur, fresh lulo & prickly pear cordial and Prickly pear sorbet.
Nightjar Carnaby also has a selection of small plates for those who crave a mid cocktail snack including treats like Manchego boards or smoked mozzarella and jamon serrano toasties.
The new location is bringing London’s top speakeasy into the heart of West End. Ideal place for a cocktail with friends or a romantic date.
by Olga Petrusewicz
Nightjar Carnaby
Kingly Court
49-51 Carnaby St
London
W1f 9py
Nightjar is currently open from Wednesday to Saturday.
Book a table here