Hotel bars can sometimes feel like an afterthought. Somewhere you end up because it’s convenient, rather than somewhere you would actually choose to spend an evening. Bow Bar at Hilton London Metropole doesn’t quite fit that mould. From the moment you walk in, it’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into the space. The design is sleek and contemporary, but still feels warm and inviting, with a sophisticated atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in for the evening. There’s a real sense of personality to the room, from the details in the interiors to the lighting and carefully considered styling. It feels polished without feeling cold, which is something hotel bars don’t always manage to get right. The design also works nicely alongside the concept behind Bow Bar. Inspired by East London, the bar takes cues from the area’s markets, music, history and neighbourhoods, creating a space that feels connected to its surroundings rather than simply being another hotel lounge. It has a stylish, modern feel while still retaining a little bit of that London character.
Then there is the cocktail menu. Drawing inspiration from places including Columbia Road, Brick Lane and Dalston, the drinks take the idea of East London and turn it into something you can actually taste. Rather than simply giving cocktails different neighbourhood names, there is a sense of creativity behind each one. We started with Party at Paloma’s, which was bright, refreshing and had just the right amount of sweetness. The grapefruit gave it a sharp, zesty edge, while the ginger added a little warmth. It was an easy favourite and the kind of drink that would work particularly well at the beginning of a night. Berries in Bloom was a little more playful. Fruity and aromatic, it had a lovely balance between sweetness and acidity, with a peppery finish that added something unexpected. It was also one of those cocktails that looked as good as it tasted. Then came the East India Club, which felt like the more grown up choice of the three. Richer and more complex, it had a subtle tea note running through it that worked surprisingly well with the rum. The three drinks were completely different, which made exploring the menu feel genuinely fun.
The food is worth ordering alongside the cocktails, too. The crispy fried chicken thigh with sweet chilli mayonnaise was a particular highlight – crunchy, moreish and exactly what you want sitting alongside a drink. The smoked salmon with blue corn nachos and whipped cheese offered something lighter and fresh, making it an easy option to share.
What really makes Bow Bar stand out is how well everything comes together. The interior, the cocktails and the food all feel like parts of the same experience. Nothing feels overly forced or themed, and there is no sense that the East London inspiration has been added simply for the sake of having a concept. Instead, it gives the bar its own identity.
Bow Bar feels sophisticated without being pretentious and, most importantly, somewhere you would actually want to spend a few hours. It’s the kind of space where you can come dressed up for an evening out, drop in for a drink after work or simply sit back and work your way through the cocktail list. Beautifully designed, full of character and with a cocktail menu that gives you plenty of reasons to stay for one more, Bow Bar is one to add to the London bar list.