Going to a bar for a first date might seem like a low-effort plan, but with London’s hidden gems, that doesn’t have to be the case! We’ve narrowed down the best dating bars in London based on their atmosphere, drink offerings, and uniqueness to help you plan the perfect date.
Whether you want to keep things local to your borough for the time being, or you’re trying to make a big first impression by going all out on the experience, there’s a bar in this list that’ll suit you down to a tee.So, shake off those first-date nerves, and let’s get planning!
Our Top 7 Ranked & Rated London Dating Bars
| Bar | Atmosphere | Drinks Menu | Food menu | Price* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Be At One Bar | 10/10 | 9/10 | n/a | 10/10 |
| Coyote Ugly | 10/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Studio48 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Opium Chinatown | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| The Crown Pub | 9/10 | 10/10 | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| The Little Yellow Door | 8/10 | 10/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Bar Américain | 10/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 |
*These prices are ranked as being reasonable for London bars!
The Best Bars in Mayfair
Mayfair’s packed with amazing bars that are perfect for a romantic date. The vibe is always buzzing, and there are so many great spots to pick from.
Sure, it’s known for being a bit pricey, but the bars and restaurants here are seriously worth it. Whether you’re after somewhere fancy or just a cosy spot to chat, Mayfair’s got you covered.
Here are some of our favourite Mayfair dating bars…
1. The Connaught Bar
Located: The Connaught, Carlos Place, Mayfair, London, W1K 2AL
The Connaught is a super chic cocktail bar with gorgeous art deco vibes and an incredible cocktail menu. It’s one of the best spots for a date or catching up with friends, thanks to its cosy, intimate atmosphere – perfect any time of day or night.
They’ve got food menus for every occasion, too, whether it’s breakfast, all-day dining, or late-night bites. And the best part? No reservations are needed! Perfect for those last-minute plans.
2. Sketch London
Located: 9 Conduit St, London, W1S 2XG
Sketch London is famous for its pink interior, quirky decor, and amazing drinks. By day, it’s a tea room, but by night, it turns into a super vibey cocktail lounge.
It’s hands down one of the most Instagrammable spots in London, thanks to its stunning aesthetics and photogenic food, perfect for a cute date or just snapping some pics.
There are a few different rooms to check out, each with its own unique look, including:
- Glade
- Gallery
- Parlour
Bonus: Sketch stays open late, so you can keep the night going if you’re feeling the vibes.
The Best Bars in Farringdon
Farringdon is the best place for those who love nightlife and culture. Whether you’re looking for a new bar or restaurant, you’ll be sure to find something that tickles your fancy.
It’s located near Central London, so it’s you could even take a stroll around the city afterwards. And if you’re feeling up to it, there’s plenty of live music at some of the local venues for an added dose of culture and entertainment.
3. Be At One Bar
Location: 40-42 Charterhouse Street, London, London, EC1M 6JN
If you’re looking for a bar with a party vibe, Be At One Bar is where it’s at. It’s got a fun (sometimes rowdy) atmosphere, tons of cocktails, and tasty bar snacks to keep you going – there are over 100 cocktails on the menu!
It’s the perfect spot to loosen up, break the ice, and see if your date’s up for some playful banter. Just be prepared for bartenders doing karaoke on the bar and spraying themselves and punters with the soda gun! As a first-date venue, Be At One certainly isn’t boring.
The Best Bars on Old Street
Old Street is right in the heart of London, and it’s packed with great bars for you and your date to check out. With so many trendy and unique spots along this 1-mile stretch, you’re bound to find a place you’ll both love.
4. Bar Nightjar
Location: 129 City Rd, London, EC1V 1JB
Located in Shoreditch, Nightjar is known for its creative cocktails and live music.
If you’re in Shoreditch, you’ve got to check out Nightjar. This place has been serving up creative cocktails and live music since 2011, and it’s still one of East London’s go-to spots. Think live jazz every night, an epic drink menu, and a super romantic vibe.
Honestly, it’s hands down one of our favourite spots in London for a date night or just meeting someone new.
The Best Chinatown Bars
Chinatown is not just for eating – there are plenty of great bars to explore, too. From traditional Chinese teahouses to innovative cocktail bars, Chinatown is full of exciting options for a romantic date night.
5. Opium Chinatown
Located: 15-16 Gerrard St, London, W1D 6JE
Opium is the perfect spot for a cosy date night. This dim sum parlour and cocktail bar has a unique Shanghai-inspired vibe that’s sure to impress. With its speakeasy charm, Opium sets the scene for a romantic and unforgettable evening.
Whether you’re sipping on their award-winningcocktails, learning the ropes in a mixology class, or diving into a whiskey tasting, there’s plenty to keep things exciting.
| Some of our favourite Opium cocktails include: – Naked Aroma – Mind The Gap – Boba Stars – Pineapple Daiquiri |
The Best Bars in Bethnal Green
Bethnal Green is such a chill spot in London, making it perfect for a first date. It’s super diverse, too, so you’ve got loads of options to choose from. Whether you’re into traditional pubs or trendy cocktail bars, here are some of the best places to check out…
6. Coupette Bar
Located: 423 Bethnal Green Rd, London, E2 0AN
Coupette is the perfect mix of French elegance and London’s edgy vibe. It’s famous for its calvados and champagne cocktails.
The atmosphere is super chill, making it a great spot for a romantic date, but it’s also really friendly and welcoming. Plus, they’ve got a solid food menu, so you can grab a bite before diving into the drinks.
7. The Crown Pub with Rooftop Bar
Located: 223 Grove Rd, London, E3 5SN
Looking for a more laid-back vibe? Check out The Crown in Mile End. Downstairs, you’ve got a cosy pub with a solid craft beer lineup, and upstairs, there’s a rooftop bar with killer views of London’s skyline and the East End.
Oh, and the food? So good. Plus, they’ve got live music on the weekends, which is always a win. It’s the perfect spot to grab a pint, relax, and ease into your night out.
The Best Notting Hill Bars
Notting Hill is known for its trendy bars, upscale restaurants, and chic cafes. There’s something for everyone in this fashionable neighbourhood.
Here are some of the best bars Notting Hill has to offer…
8. The Little Yellow Door
Located: 6-8 All Saints Rd, London, W11 1HH
The Little Yellow Door is hands down one of the best spots in the area for late-night cocktails and great food – and honestly, we couldn’t agree more!
It’s such a quirky and fun neighbourhood hangout, serving up delicious food and creative drinks straight from their Notting Hill flat. Yep, you read that right! This place is actually a flat-turned-bar, and the vibe is just so cool.
The Best Bars in Camden
Camden is one of the most unique neighbourhoods in the city, lending itself to unique, fun dates where you can indulge your quirky side with your date.
Here are some of the top bars Camden has to offer for a unique first date…
9. Studio48 (Formerly Near & Far)
Location: 48 Chalk Farm Road, NW1 8AJ
Camden’s “little slice of Californian cool“, Studio48, is the ideal spot for a cosy, intimate date night. With benches covered in cushions, you can get comfortable for an evening of getting to know each other.
Offering everything from bottomless brunches and romantic sunset cocktails to quality gluten-free food, you can easily spend an entire afternoon here with your date. If you indulge enough, you might even want to check out the Elvis-themed karaoke lounge!
| They also offer a non-alcoholic bottomless mocktail brunch that’s ideal for keeping your first date on the straight and narrow! |
10. Coyote Ugly Camden
Location: The Stables Market, Camden Market, Chalk Farm Rd, NW1 8AH
Nestled in the heart of The Stables Market is an unassuming saloon bar with a wild side. Coyote Ugly Camden is the perfect spot for a fun and lively first date, with live music performances, dancing on the bar (that you’re free to partake in*), and plenty of drinks to go around.
The infamous bar is definitely not your average bar experience, making it an exciting choice for a unique first date in Camden. You can even bag some Coyote Ugly merch to commemorate your date. So, let loose, have some drinks, and enjoy all that the Coyote Ugly Saloon has to offer!
| *Note that only female patrons are permitted to dance on the bar. Sorry lads! |
The Best Bars in Soho
We love Soho for its eclectic atmosphere, and it’s home to some of the best bars for a date in London.
With tiny cocktail dens rubbing shoulders with old-fashioned pubs, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to a great night out.
11. Bar Termini
Location: 7 Old Compton St, London, W1D 5JE
While Rome might be a bit far for a first date, Bar Termini is the spot for an unforgettable Italian-inspired cocktail experience in London. The mixologists here are seriously talented, whipping up some of the most creative drinks you’ll ever try.
And the best part? They’ve got takeaway options*, so you can keep the good vibes going at home!
*Be aware of open container laws, especially on the tube, and keep your takeaway bottles closed until you’ve made it home to stop your date spiralling downward.
12. Bar Américain
Location: 20 Sherwood Street at Brasserie Zedel, W1F 7ED
One of the best first-date bars in Soho is hidden away under the hustle and bustle of Piccadilly, Bar Américain.
This authentic American bar is well-known for its amazing cocktails and live jazz performances. They also have a stunning brasserie if you’re hungry too! The atmosphere is intimate and sophisticated, making it the perfect place for a romantic first date.
With a walk-in-only basis, you can’t book ahead, so prepare for a small waiting time during busy periods and maybe have a backup plan in case the wait is too long!
| Be sure to check out their pre and prohibition cocktail range for some classic drinks that take you straight back to the early 1900s. |
How to Incorporate Bars into Your Date Ideas
First dates at bars can be great, but the trick is to make them fun and engaging. Instead of just sitting and sipping drinks, why not pick a bar with something extra, like board games, karaoke, or even a cocktail-making class?
You could also go for a spot with a cool theme or quirky vibe—something that sparks conversation and makes the night memorable.
It’s understandable that the idea of lowering your inhibitions makes a first date much more enjoyable, but simply heading down your local won’t cut it, especially with so many other options available in London.
Summary: Our Favourite Dating Bars in London
London has no shortage of amazing bars perfect for a first date – but let’s be real, the person you’re with matters just as much as the place. A great night out is all about that spark, the chemistry, and finding someone who just clicks with you.
So, go ahead and explore the city’s incredible bar scene, but don’t forget – the real magic happens when you’re with someone who gets you.
Find your perfect bar-hopping match on the Finding The One app and explore these dating bars together. You can find us on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store!
FAQs
How Do I Choose a Bar for a First Date?
When choosing a bar for a first date, consider the ambience, noise level, and overall atmosphere. Opt for a place that allows for easy conversation and provides a comfortable setting to get to know each other.
Where Do Singles Hang Out in London?
London offers a vibrant and diverse social scene, making it easy for singles to find places to meet and connect. Popular hangout spots for singles include trendy bars in Soho, lively clubs in Shoreditch, and social events like speed dating and singles mixers.
Is a Bar a Good Place for a First Date?
Yes, a bar can be a good place for a first date as it provides a relaxed and social setting. However, it’s important to choose a bar with the right atmosphere for easy conversation and where both individuals feel comfortable getting to know each other.