In the heart of Belgravia, hidden beneath the historic Orange Hotel, lies one of London’s finest underground cocktail bars – The Blood Orange Bar. The hotel is named after William of Orange and the bar shares its rich heritage with a contemporary twist. (If it ain’t broke.)
Think seductive coral and blush hues, crimson plush seats and draped curtains. The ambience is soft and elegant; the result is pleasingly old-world Victorian charm that brings a refreshing vibrancy to London’s cocktail scene.
Upon entering, you are greeted by the softly-lit shelves lined with fine wine – always a welcoming sight! Within the depths of the bar is a cosy private space named The Vault, equipped with large screens and lounge seating. It’s perfect for those seeking more intimacy, ideal for gatherings, watching sports and marking occasions with family, friends and colleagues.
One of the charms of this gastro is the carefully curated selection of cocktails, craft beers, fruits de Mer dishes and a bar menu featuring wood-fired pizzas. Standouts on the drinks menu are mixtures of orange-infused cocktail classics like Blood Orange Margaritas (a citrus concoction of Cazcabel Blanco Tequila, blood orange and bitter lemon shrub, and fresh lime juice), Queen’s Paloma (Hayman’s London Dry Gin, champagne and elderflower cordial, blossom better and Riesling liqueur) and a Hugo Old Fashioned with a modern twist. Prices for drinks and dishes are on the higher side but it’s Belgravia – what do you expect?
Service is attentive and unobstructed, with the knowledgeable, friendly staff happy to offer recommendations – so you can continue with the serious business of enjoying the evening. To dispel any doubts about the bar’s hipness, DJs play music from vinyl records – take that, Hackney!
Whether you’re dancing the night away or simply unwinding with friends in style, Blood Orange bar is the place to be.
Basement, The Orange, 37 Pimlico Rd, London SW1W 8NE; Blood Orange Bar
