HIDDEN BARS OF CHINATOWN
Behind unassuming doors, beneath bustling streets and above the neon glow, there's another side to Chinatown waiting to be discovered.
Chinatown London has always been a neighbourhood that rewards curiosity. Beyond the restaurants, bakeries and lantern-lined streets lies a different kind of nightlife scene, where intimate cocktail bars, tucked-away drinking dens and unexpected late-night discoveries offer an escape from the crowds of the West End.
Think inventive cocktails inspired by Asian flavours, dimly lit interiors, hidden entrances and bars where the atmosphere is just as important as what's in your glass. From discreet basement hideaways to contemporary cocktail concepts, Chinatown and its surrounding streets are home to some of London's most intriguing places for an after-dark drink.
OPIUM - BEHIND THE JADE DOOR
Hidden behind an unassuming jade-green door on Gerrard Street, Opium is one of Chinatown London's best-kept secrets. Inspired by the glamour and intrigue of 1920s Shanghai, this atmospheric cocktail and dim sum parlour unfolds across winding staircases, intimate rooms and three distinctive bars. Discover the Apothecary Bar, where experimental cocktails take centre stage, or settle into the Peony Bar for inventive drinks paired with freshly prepared dim sum. From Asian-inspired ingredients to unexpected flavour combinations, Opium delivers a cocktail experience that's anything but ordinary
EXPERIMENTAL COCKTAIL CLUB - THE ART OF THE UNEXPECTED
Blink and you might miss it. Tucked behind a discreet doorway on Gerrard Street, Experimental Cocktail Club is a hidden Chinatown institution that has been redefining London's cocktail scene since 2010. Ascend the staircase to discover an intimate drinking den where beautifully crafted cocktails, atmospheric interiors and carefully curated music come together. Reimagined in 2025 with a striking new design inspired by Chinatown's heritage, the venue now combines its signature cocktail expertise with a vibrant programme of live music and late-night DJs. From inventive interpretations of classic cocktails to rare vintage spirits, it's the perfect place for those who appreciate a little mystery with their evening drinks
NOODLE & BEER - A HIDDEN BAR BELOW THE SURFACE
Tucked beneath the bustling streets of Chinatown, Noodle & Beer offers more than its signature Sichuan-inspired noodles and bold, fiery flavours. Head downstairs and discover an intimate drinking space that brings a different energy to the neighbourhood's nightlife. With its atmospheric interiors and laid-back feel, it's an unexpected spot to settle in for drinks away from the crowds above. Whether you're stopping by after a bowl of spicy noodles or looking for somewhere a little less obvious for your next night out, Noodle & Beer proves there's more to discover beneath Chinatown's streets.
SPEEDBOAT BAR - TAKE THE PARTY UPSTAIRS
Neon lights, Bangkok energy and a soundtrack made for staying out late. Speedboat Bar brings the electric atmosphere of Thailand's capital to the edge of Chinatown London. While the ground-floor restaurant is known for its fiery Thai dishes and vibrant dining experience, head upstairs to discover a lively drinking space complete with a pool table, colourful interiors and a distinctly after-dark atmosphere. Inspired by Bangkok's bustling Chinatown and late-night drinking culture, Speedboat Bar is anything but your typical cocktail destination. Come for the food, stay for the drinks and let the evening take its own course.
