London’s Most Coveted Vinyl Bars For Your Next Night Out

Chiave

Founded by former nightlife workers Cem and Selin, Chiave is built on a shared love of good drinks and good music. Since opening its doors, the drinking den has been met with almost immediate success. Maybe it's the chic fitout, the downstairs dance floor or the rotating list of inventive cocktails, but there's no shortage of selling points which have guests flocking in droves. The bar also boasts a custom-built sound system from Danish audiologist Arda Audio, which is known for providing a very high-fidelity ambiance.

Address: 36 Redchurch St, London E2 7DP

Bookings: https://www.chiaveshoreditch.com/

Bambi

Bambi is worth paying a visit to for the aesthetics alone. This wine bar cum listening space has established a loyal fanbase who value the art of good vinyl as much as mixology. The focal point of the space is the oversized speakers which are built into the wall and flanked by a mini library of vintage vinyl. The dining is equally important with a variety of European-esque small plates which compliment the diverse drinks list.

Address: 1 Westgate St, London E8 3RL

Bookings: https://bambi-bar.com/

Sixt33n

Located under New York inspired eatery, BRIX, this drinking den is equal parts sultry and sophisticated. In partnership with Patron, the bar offers top shelf tequila in expected ways (think margaritas and palomas) to unexpected ways (think a Spanish take on the infamous 'last word' cocktail). Even the food menu draws inspiration from the agave plant — the grilled tiger prawns with tequila hollandaise is a particular standout.

For those who love the freshness of the paloma but are looking for a little spice, don't skip the 'Up In Smoke'. Illegal mezcal meets ancho pepper, homemade grapefruit soda and a hint of tajin for a cheeky kick. The staff are very friendly and more than happy to offer suggestions, so you'd need only ask if you're slightly unsure of what to order.

Fitted out with moody blue lighting and offering a revolving list of talent, there's always fun to be had here. Be sure to grab a seat near the decks for a behind-the-scenes look at how the vinyl magic happens.

Address: 16 Great Guildford St, London SE1 0HS

Bookings: https://www.sixt33n.com/

Jazu

Housed in Deptford, Jazu is the elevated neighbourhood bar where everyone is welcome. Independently run, the space offers a relaxed ambience where people can come and enjoy good drinks and a top-quality vintage sound system. Playing a little bit of everything from soul and funk to disco and jazz, this is a listening bar that appeals to all kinds of music lovers. The oversized disco ball suspended from the ceiling lets everyone know that come nightfall, there's plenty of room to have a boogie or two as well.

Address: 2 Deptford High St, London SE8 4AF

Bookings: https://www.jazudrinks.com/

26 Curtain Road

Known for its heady selection of vinyl-only music, 26 Curtain Road offers the perfect balance of a fun night out in Shoreditch without going overboard. It's a great place to catch up with friends, sip on a selection of specially sourced beers and spirits and soak in the ambience. Housed in a beautiful heritage listed space built in the 1800s, it offers a snug and intimate setting, reminiscent of the days where bars really were cool.

Address: 26 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3NY

Bookings: https://www.instagram.com/26curtainroad