‘Are you trying to tell me something?’ asked my date for the evening when informed that I’d be taking her to a bar called The Lucky Pig. Fair comment, but as soon as you walk into this wonderful underground drinking den, it’s effortless glamour all the way. Situated between Great Portland Street and Tottenham Court Road, though you’d never know it, this charming bar’s previous life was a drab, rundown club. What a difference a year makes.
The Lucky Pig has set out its stall as a 1920s-style parlour of self-indulgence. Don’t use the word ‘speakeasy’ here though; manager Olly Hornby-Smith is at pains to stress that they’re not trying to jump on this ever-growing London bandwagon. No prohibition-style clichés here; instead Olly charmingly states that the aim of the place is ‘to feel like a house party’. Indeed the furniture, all comfy sofas and vintage armchairs with a smattering of tables, lies somewhere between comfort and decadence. Partially-ripped wallpaper and quirky framed postcards add to its understated charm. This is a bar that is as appropriate for a first date as it is for a post-work unwind with half the office. On the evening I was there, a very handy singer worked her way through some old classics, accompanied by an equally tasty pianist. Music, though not intrusive, is a big part of The Lucky Pig vibe.
The food is superbly judged, simple and hearty, but it’s drinking that this joint really understands. I was served some of the best cocktails I’ve had in quite a while; trust me, their ‘Dark and Stormy’ has to be imbibed to be believed. Some places strive for cool, and their desperate efforts are written all over their drab, generic menus and brushed stainless steel bars. Others just simply know what people want, and what constitutes a great night out. The Lucky Pig is one of those....
Read moreI want to share how much I love The Lucky Pig. For almost three years now, I’ve been organising monthly nights out with my friends, and this place has become our absolute favourite spot. It’s not just a bar to us anymore; it’s where we go to relax, laugh, and just have a great time together.
Our nights usually start with a round of Prosecco, it’s kind of a tradition at this point, before we dive into the incredible cocktails. Seriously, they’re so good. You can tell a lot of thought and care goes into making them. And don’t get me started on the pizzas! They’re the perfect addition to the drinks, and we can never resist ordering a few to share.
What I love most about The Lucky Pig is the atmosphere, at times they have entertainment in the form of singing performers, or even DJs. The décor is stylish and classy without feeling over-the-top, and the space really works for any vibe. If we’re in the mood for something lively, we hang out in the main area, but when we want to keep things more intimate, the little alcoves are perfect. They’re cosy, can fit up to eight of us, and feel like our own private spot for the night.
The team there is fantastic too. Over time, we’ve gotten to know them, and they’ve always made us feel so welcome. Fefe, the general manager, is an absolute gem. They always go above and beyond every time we’re there, which is one of the reasons we keep coming back.
With great cocktails, good food, and a place that just feels special. I can’t recommend The Lucky Pig enough. Check it out, you might end up loving it as much as we...
Read moreCame here last Friday and was very disappointed by the tragic lack of business acumen. Ordered a bottle of wine at the bar (after being repeatedly hassled to purchase a long list of cocktails). Once the bottle was in the cooler, I said I'd take it over to our table. The server was insistent that he would bring it over with the glasses. I insisted back, but eventually he won. I paid on card when it arrived and it was only after I'd looked at the receipt that I'd noticed they had the cheek to add a service charge!? To walk literally 5 steps over to our table with the bottle and 2 glasses!! I was so shocked, especially after I'd insisted to take the drink over myself, and having not been warned at all that I'd be charged extra! Totally unprofessional behaviour, very bad business habits and I felt very cheated. I've been a few times but will make an effort to find a new haunt instead as there are plenty of others...
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