Cork & Bottle Leicester Square

Just moments from the bright lights of Leicester Square, Cork & Bottle is one of the West End’s true drinking institutions. Founded in 1971 by the formidable Don Hewitson, the bar quickly earned a reputation that opened doors to some of the world’s finest growers, securing access to treasured bottles rarely seen beyond their local cellars. More than five decades on, it remains a pilgrimage site for wine lovers, now run by Will Clayton under Don’s watchful eye and guided by the same unwavering philosophy: great wine, chosen with care, poured without pretension.

Inside, it’s all old-school charm and well-worn conviviality, with a 300-label wine list that roams confidently across regions and styles. The menu is pleasingly eclectic - robust, unfussy dishes designed to partner properly with what’s in your glass - and the signature ham and cheese pie has achieved cult status of its own.