Nightjar Bar

by Emily T (subscribe)

I'm an English Literature student at the University of East Anglia but spend my holidays living in South East London.

Published August 22nd 2012

Walk straight in to the 1920's

If you're walking through the streets of Shoreditch, you might be so fortunate as to stumble across The Nightjar - one of London's most authentic speakeasies, which will have you believe you have just stepped into the 1920's. It's exterior is unassuming but be assured, once you step in and walk down the stairs you will be wowed but its character and retro feel.

From Tuesdays to Saturdays (from 8.45pm), guests will be treated to live music from the 1920's-1940's, although be warned, this is sometimes accompanied by a small fee. (£5 on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and £7 on Friday's and Saturdays), but truth be told, it's worth it. This month acts include The Boomtown Swingalings, Eric Ranzoni, Gerty and her Gaiety and The Sidecars. To have a look at who is performing when and find out more about the performers just visit the website.

Though the ambiance of the bar is reason enough to visit it, you'll also be pleased to know that the cocktails, which start at £9, don't fail to impress either. Also, if you'd like to take away a little memento of your stay, the cocktail menu is available as a complete deck of playing cards which you can buy - a nice touch I think you'll agree! They even serve food, but think tapas and cheeseboards rather than steak and chips.

Make sure you book in advance as the authenticity of this speakeasy has made it very popular and they have a no standing policy. So basically, no table...no good! But don't worry, reserving a table is simple, just click here.

Open until the early hours of the morning, 7 days a week, with a wide arrangement of delectable cocktails in a brilliantly vintage setting, there is no reason not to go!