Scarfes Bar — Restaurant in London

PRETENTIOUSNESS SHAKEN NOT STIRRED

I was pulled into Scarfes Bar by a Boujee friend, you’re immediately struck by its cinematic glow. Here are my personal perspectives.

The lighting is moody, the jazz is sultry, and the decor whispers (or rather bellows) old-school elegance. It’s the kind of place where you expect to lock eyes with a mysterious stranger across the room or overhear a scandalous affair being plotted over martinis. But before you settle into this grand fantasy, reality arrives—wearing a three-piece suit that’s one size too small.

The crowd here was a curious mix: first dates playing at sophistication, groups of friends clinking glasses too loudly, and men in suits discussing “business,” which seems to involve a lot of boisterous laughter. On closer inspection, the glamour begins to crack. The three-piece suits cling precariously to expanding waistlines, turning sharp pinstripes into wavy optical illusions. I saw a sea of bald heads gleaming under the low lighting, while toupees threatened to slide off with each exaggerated laugh.

The decor, though undeniably grand, feels like a shrine to a bygone era of luxury. It’s all polished wood, plush chairs, and an atmosphere so heavy with pretension that you can practically hear it creak. There’s an unshakable sense that Scarfes Bar is trying too hard to evoke “old money,” but instead lands squarely in the territory of “new money trying to cosplay as old.” It’s a bit like being invited to a dinner party where the host insists on calling the living room a drawing room.

And then, of course, there’s the price tag. The cocktails were good, but expensive. Abit like Casper the friendly ghost—two sips, and they’re gone.

Ah, the Tangerine Incident. My Boujee rebel friend, placed a harmless tangerine from her bag onto the table. Enter a manager? With what felt like the urgency of someone defusing a bomb, to inform us that “foreign objects” weren’t allowed.

The pretentiousness isn’t just in the drinks or the decor—it’s in the air. It feels performative and the ambiance too curated. Even the impeccable waitstaff, who glide around wiping up spills and refilling glasses with clockwork precision, can’t quite soften the atmosphere. I start to wonder: is this place a bar, or a very expensive stage set for people who like to pretend they’re in a Bond film?

Scarfes Bar tries to be many things: luxurious, sophisticated, exclusive. But instead, i feel it to be stiff, overly rehearsed, and just a little too pleased with itself. It’s hard to relax when the room seems to be constantly checking itself in the mirror.

Would I return? No, I’d rather have a pint at the...

I became a regular at Scarfes around later 2014, early 2015, when it was nice and quiet. I couldn't be sure but I believe it was shortly after it was refurbished. The manager/staff @ that time used to remember me and they always offer me and my guests a glass of house bubbles if we were there and had to wait for a table. I knew it will become a very successful bar because it has so much to offer on the highest standards. It has become busier and busier over the years and I sometimes struggle to get in and get a seat due to its popularity.

I have had so many good memories and grown so much fond of this place. I had my birthday party & drink there in 2015, 2016, and 2019; celebrated my best friend's promotion there; also remember once I sent an Irish coffee back twice because they couldn't get it right, but they were really trying; I also remember one girl who worked there shared the big news with me that she is going to the university of Westminster to study media, and I was so happy for her. I used to love one of the cocktails from their very early menu which is named after the Rosewood hotel spa place - Sense of the place. They have then changed and updated their Cocktail & Drink menu many times over the years but I do still miss the old ones. I loved their live music bands, one of the main reasons I fall in love with this place too, they are classy, fun and I love both the bands, as they play on different days.

Today, when I was looking for places to take my friend from the US when she visits, I thought of the Scarfes, and I wonder why I have never left any good words/reviews for this place. I guess it's better late than never, and here we go, got a bit sentimental too. It's probably my favourite drinking place in London, and I'd recommend anyone to come to have a perfect cocktail or a Gin&Tonic, or a whisky here as they have so much on the menu! But do visit when I'm not around so when I am there I can get my...

Scarfes Bar at the Rosewood London hotel was undoubtedly the highlight of my trip to London. In fact, it quickly became my favorite bar in the entire city.

What truly impressed me was the seamless experience from start to finish. Unlike many popular spots in London, we didn’t have to wait in any line and didn’t need reservations. The bouncer at the door was incredibly cool, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. In fact, we even exchanged tips on must-visit spots in New York City for when he makes it over here.

Once inside, the sophisticated ambiance and attention to detail immediately caught my eye. Inspired by the whimsical artwork of Gerald Scarfe, the decor added a touch of artistic flair to the elegant surroundings.

The service was impeccable, with attentive staff ensuring that every need was met promptly and courteously. From recommending signature cocktails to providing insights into the history of the bar, the staff at Scarfes Bar went above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience.

Speaking of cocktails, the drink menu was a masterpiece in itself. Each cocktail was expertly crafted with precision and creativity, offering a delightful blend of flavors that tantalized the taste buds.

Adding to the ambiance was the live jazz music, which provided the perfect soundtrack to the evening. The combination of smooth melodies and cozy lighting created an atmosphere that was both lively and intimate.

Overall, Scarfes Bar exceeded my expectations in every way possible. From the exquisite decor to the impeccable service, from the expertly crafted cocktails to the enchanting live music, every aspect of my experience was nothing short of perfection.

Without a doubt, Scarfes Bar earns a perfect 10 out of 10 in my book. It may be pricey, but the experience is worth every penny. My first visit may have been my introduction to London, but it certainly won’t be my last visit to...