Today marks the opening ofBarcelona BarDry Martini’s first British outpost in London’s Meliá White House hotel.
The iconic bar from Javier de las Muelas has consistently sat within the World’s 50 Best Bars list for the past six years and now a London venue will be added to the bar’s portfolio that already includes; the Gran Meliá Fenix, Madrid and the Gran Meliá Victoria in Palma de Mallorca.Now the bar will grace the British Isles with its presence at Meliá White House, a Grade II listed building opposite the stunning Regent’s Park in central London, and will be headed by Martin Siska, formerly bar manager of the Barcelona site.
With its hallmark style of recreating classic cocktails, alongside signature cocktails from Javier, the original Barcelona bar is considered an institution in cocktail culture. Since its launch back in 1978 it has remained at the forefront of the Spanish cocktail scene and continues to ooze a quietly confident vibe that can only come through years of experience. The minute you walk through he door the atmosphere is relaxed and playful and entices you into their world of discovery and wonder.
The menu will feature a range of classic and signature cocktails, including updates from Javier de las Muelas’ repertoire such as; ‘The Scented Negroni’, a slightly more fragrant verison of this classic tipple that Tanqueray No. TEN, Martini Rosso, Campari and Dry Martini’s signature ‘rosemary droplets’ – a range of essences created specifically for the bar.
Featured drinks from the menu include cocktails such as The Carnivore; a mix of strawberry and pisco combined with the punchy flavours of Szechuan pepper and passion fruit, served in a frozen flower on a bed of moss and dry ice, as well as The Jigger which arrives in a porthole style vessel and offers guests an updated version of Sangria by mixing fresh fruit with Zacapa 23 and Bacardi Superior.
Devoted followers of the original Barcelona venue will be pleased to know that the team has also brought the iconic ‘Martini counter’ to London. The counter boasts a choice of 80 gins and bitters for the picking, along with recommendations from the knowledgeable bar team, all set within a an elegant three-metre section devoted to making Martinis.Tradition will also be kept alive with the infamous stamped certificate being issued to every partisan that orders one of the irresistible Martinis.
For a unique drinking experience Dry Martini really does have it all. An exciting fusion of classic flavours along with contemporary innovation, this will truly be a destination venue in the capital.
Meliá White House Hotel
Albany Street
Regent’s Park
NW1 3UP
+44 20 7391 3000
london@drymartini.org