Opium in City of London

You should always book before coming here, it’s known as a hidden bar for a reason! The doorman is always friendly, and the cocktails are second to none. This is not a place to come if you want authentic Chinese food, but Asian inspired nibbles paired with artisanal cocktails is what this place does so well.

While the entry maybe unmarked, this multi level speakeasy style bar is often noticable from the queue out front.The cocktails are creative and tasty. The food menu delicious. Staff attentive, atmosphere mood setting for quiet conversation, large groups, or photo opportunities.Even if you don't have a reservation, asking politely can often get you a seat at the bar if you are only one or two.

The cocktails were excellent. This location was extremely difficult to locate. I find it quite amusing that this restaurant in Chinatown is called Opium. Extremely ironic. Be aware that you will have to wait unless you made a reservation in advance. My preferred cocktail was the Shanghai Punch.

Amazing drinks. Stopped in on a Sunday night without a booking. Had to wait about 15 minutes, but it was worth it. We were seated on the top level and each enjoyed 2 cocktails. More on the spendy side, but each drink was excellent. It’s also one of the few spots in the area that you can order snacks late. Perfect spot for after the theater. Will be back!

It could be great, but it isn't quite there. The cocktails are very average and definitely too sweet. The sweetness of the cocktails rendered them almost undrinkable in my opinion. The menu presents them as having decent ingredients, but when you look closely this isn't the case. One example, is when saffron is listed, but when you look at the small print you can see it's actually a kind of saffron cordial, or almond isn't almond at all, but amaretto. The same goes for the interior. It could be atmospheric and enticing, but it feels like it needs love, or help from an interior designer. The waiter was slightly uncouth, which didn't add to the vibe. New management and revamp needed.

Have been to this place 3 times and never disappointing. If you are planning to go during the peak timings then I would advice you to book it in advance.Amazing cocktails and bar team, special mention to Jeremy who is absolute star cocktail maker and all thanks to him this bar became one of our favourite.Must try cocktail martini and dim sums here!

VIP experience if you book. You don't have to queue. This made my mum's year lol.Staff were super attentive and lovely. Drinks and food came fast and they reminded us politely when we had half hour left on our table. For sure going back again. Recommend booking and having that creamy cocktail last for pudding. Helped with the walk home!

I was at opium apothecary recently and the cocktails were not as great as what I had two years ago. Their menu has changed completely. Didn't prefer the cocktails this time around. Their dumplings were good but pricey.

Review 1: Apothecary Bar: absolutely amazing. Massive thank you to the staff who helped me sneak a cake & some candles up in 2 different goes, while hiding from my friend, and setting it up for me so we could surprise her for her birthday. The food was top notch. The drinks did the most. If I could give them 10 stars I would.Review 2: Academy Bar: soured the entire experience so I've removed 1 star from the total. The staff seemed to have better things to do. Except for 1 blonde guy who kept walking to our table every 5 minutes to "remind" us the booking was almost up. We had 30 minutes left & he brought over the bill without us asking. Plainly he doesn't want our money? So we took the hint & went elsewhere.

Amazing experience.Unique cocktail bar.... Look out for the Turquoise door!!Impeccable service and nice selection of unique, tasty cocktails. Very much worth the price tag.The dim sum was so tasty... I could have kept eating it all night!