Best Bars In East London

Housed in a former bank by Spitalfields Market, The Bar Downstairs shakes up some of East London's coolest cocktails. Created by the team behind Blixen and Three Sheets, this basement treasure trove is a haven for those after curious sips and achingly stylish interiors.

Signature Brew on Blackhorse Road is one of Walthamstow's finest bars - part of the Blackhorse Beer Mile. The industrial space also boasts an expansive outdoor area, and they host live music and resident DJs on a regular basis.

Choose from 12 lines of freshly brewed beer, or sample some local spirits and wines instead. What's more, 7 Bone Burgers are serving up juicy beef, chicken or plant-based patties, paired with wings and dirty fries.

A classy place to drink around East London, Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is an impressive rooftop bar. Take your pick from a vast selection of Champagne, spirits and cocktails before taking in the jaw-dropping panoramic views from this heated terrace on the 10th floor.

Not only does Nightjar concoct some of the most theatrical cocktails around, but they're also one of the best speakeasies in London. Grab a table in the glamorous setting and enjoy a memorable evening of unique libations made using ingredients such as savoury sand and banana bread beer. 

A stylish neighbourhood bar in Bethnal Green, The Sun Tavern takes its inspiration from New York style-wise. Expect exposed brickwork dating back to the 1850s, as well as dark interiors and rustic wooden furniture.

They offer a selection of quirky cocktails, using unique ingredients like matcha, smoked almonds and curry leaf - alongside London's largest collection of Irish whiskey. They also offer small plates, from charcuterie boards to whipped feta.

This Walthamstow taproom is serving up some of the best craft beer in East London. Exale pride themselves on producing nothing but quality pints, and you can find 10 taps of the stuff at their wetlands-adjacent HQ, alongside cocktails, DJs and live tasting events throughout the year.

When it comes to the best bars in Stratford, Jim & Tonic at The Print House really is up there. Not only does it boast slick, contemporary interiors and a canalside terrace, but also an in-house gin distillery. Head over for elevated G&Ts, craft beers and affordable cocktails.

A fun pop-up bar in East London, Brick Lane Tap Room is one of the best places to find yourself this summer. Rock up to their Spitalfields haunt and you'll find craft pints aplenty and a menu of delicious New York-inspired eats.

Dovetail Bar is where Clapton's contemporary scene meets a touch of nostalgia. With its chic but comfortable atmosphere, it's the ideal destination for a night out with friends or a casual date night.

Expect expertly crafted cocktails, a wide selection of spirits, and a warm environment that makes every visit feel like home. We've got our eyes on the espresso martini for £11, made with salted espresso, and the spritzes that are available for £8 before 7pm, every day.

Join Moonshine Saloon for an evening of liquor smuggling and cocktail swigging at their immersive Liverpool Street bar. Set in the Wild West, the experience will see you donning cowboy hats and meeting shady characters.

Under the historic railway arches on Tilbury Road, Chop Shop Tavern is all raw brickwork, reclaimed wood and candlelit booths. Its drinks list combines just as much rugged and refined charm.

Expect six rotating taps of locally brewed beers, a long list of inventive cocktails and an impressive whiskey and mezcal selection. Open 'til 2am at the weekends, there's no excuse not to stick around and try a few.

Umbrella London have been serving their popular ciders and alcoholic ginger beer for nearly a decade, and now you can drink it at their Bethnal Green taproom Umbrella Cider House. Nestled underneath the railway arches, this is a trendy spot boasting a relaxed atmosphere and both indoor and outdoor seating.

Whether you're sipping pints or cocktails on tap for under £10, there's something for everyone here. They've also got free darts and pool on offer, alongside regular open mic nights, live comedy and pub quizzes.

Located on East London's Commercial Street, Yuu Kitchen is a trendy stop-off for Japanese and Taiwanese-inspired treats. Head inside, where you'll be met with vibrant interiors, alongside a lip-smacking selection of sips. Our choice? A Ginger Ninga made from sake and beer.

As well as being famed for its live music programme that stretches back three decades, this Dalston boozer also pours up delicious cocktails, local craft beer and global wines. The Victoria's kitchen hosts pop-up chefs so there's always something fresh and exciting to keep hunger at bay.

Situated between Stepney and Bethnal Green, 135 Bar & Lounge is a sleek, speakeasy-inspired lounge bar. Styled like its the 1930s, this sultry space promises plush seating, low lighting, vintage furniture and Art Deco interiors - taking you back to the golden age of cocktails.

They use all kinds of premium spirits, liqueurs and fresh ingredients to create their concoctions, with top wines and beers available too. Plus, you can catch live music and resident DJs every weekend - think jazz, blues, disco and soul.

Dodici Pizze & The Black Horse is a trendy neighbourhood bar in Walthamstow, fronting sleek, modern interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows and lots of luscious greenery. The tiled bar is whipping up everything from local craft beer to seasonal cocktails, and if you visit between 6 and 7pm you can enjoy two cocktails for £10.

There's a delicious Italian menu to choose from as well, specialising in artisan pizzas. Tuck into cheesy slices topped with truffle oil, spicy nduja or anchovies, paired with a fresh burrata salad.

Make your way to East London for tasty bevvies and non-stop tunes at Lucky Voice Liverpool Street. This crackin' venue has a boatload of karaoke rooms, alongside live DJ sets. And to quench your thirst? There are lip-smacking cocktails at the bar (that can be delivered to your booth too).

This urban oasis is easily one of the best places to drink in East London, offering a heated and covered garden that also happens to welcome pets. When it comes to entertainment? Expect sports fixtures on the big screen, rounds of pool and live DJs when the weekend rolls around.

Head over to Liverpool Street where this unique cocktail spot is fronting a massive range of quality mixes for you to enjoy. And if you're looking to get more hands-on with your drinks? They've also got a fun and phenomenal masterclass.

Situated a hop, skip and a jump away from Monument, Dirty Martini is a subterranean cocktail bar oozing style. Come after work when there's some great drinks deals to snap up, pop in later to get the night started with some tipples or stay till close bopping to top hits.

26 Curtain Road is one of the best bars in Shoreditch, promising you the chance to delve into rotating craft beers, wine and premium spirits across a cool yet cosy space. Plus, you can expect vinyl only for music and late-night opening on weekends.

Situated in Shoreditch, Without Papers is a truly unique bar that blends British and Italian cultures. The friendly destination takes inspiration from the heritage of the owners, promising a warm atmosphere and a huge range of wines and cocktails.

As well as the classics, they serve quirky concoctions like the Tiramisu or a Mar-Tea-Ni, using flavours from both cuisines. Hungry? They're also whipping up charcuterie boards, cheese platters and scrumptious small plates.

Drawing inspiration from the best house parties, The Cocktail Club Old Street venue has an eclectic mix of decor - from a disco kitchen to a bedroom snug for sipping cocktails in an intimate space and even a games room complete with table football. Topping it off? An expansive open-plan dancefloor and the signature list of cocktails (a bartender's paradise that reflects over 15 years of the brand's expertise in theatrical, house and luxury drinks).

Looking for the best places to drink in East London? Head to Shoreditch where you'll find Hijingo, a wacky and wonderful bar and bingo club. Tokyo Nights-inspired, this spot will wow you with its impressive video, music, lights and sound offerings.

The Alchemist in Shoreditch is where theatrical cocktails meet industrial-chic vibes, creating an unforgettable drinking and dining experience. Nestled in one of London's most creative districts, this sleek venue is a haven for those who crave a touch of magic with their night out.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by an atmospheric blend of moody lighting, metallic accents, and an alchemy-inspired aesthetic that feels both edgy and enchanting. The bar's mixologists are true artisans, crafting molecular cocktails that fizz, smoke, and sparkle, turning every drink into a mini spectacle.

Trapeze is a popular choice for nights out in Shoreditch, with quirky decor and popping tunes to keep you dancing till the early hours. On the ground floor, you'll find a creative cocktail list and impressive circus performances, while downstairs you'll encounter some of the finest DJs every weekend.

Situated in Walthamstow, Renegade Urban Winery is a relaxed and welcoming bar that features casual outdoor space, a mezzanine for dining and tours of the winery below. Enjoy some of the best local vino as you look out over the wetlands, wile munching seasonal eats and charcuterie boards.

Get on down to MMy Wood Wharf to enjoy a fabulous selection of tasty tipples by the river. What's up for grabs? Heady, sustainable cocktails and lip-smacking craft beers, which you can enjoy alongside a diverse range of street food.

Situated on Macclesfield Road in Shoreditch, NHow London is an East gem that's sure to impress. Venture inside the quirky venue, where you'll be able to enjoy lip-smackin' bevvies, followed by some mouthwatering plates of British and Italian-inspired grub.

Pretty Decent Victoria Park Taproom is the newest venue from Pretty Decent Beer Co, the East-London based brewery that's whipping up all sorts of lagers, stouts, sours and pale ales. They've got 12 different Czech side-pour taps to choose from, and they even offer £4 pints on Thursdays to showcase their new creations.

For those of you who don't like beer, they've also got low-intervention wines, cocktails, and even slushies. Relax in the cosy front bar, or head to the back for a lively beer hall - complete with long communal tables, foosball, retro arcade games and more.

The 1 Bar is a cool cocktail bar balancing vibrancy and cosiness from its City of London location near Liverpool Street. Home to live music and everything from fine wine to beers, it's still the venue's cocktails that shine - including The Encore (an orange marmalade-flavoured tequila mix) and the Spotlight Solace (featuring Teeling whiskey, pineapple, mango and bitters).

Fancy an evening of delicious tipples? Situated in London Fields, Bar 161 is a supreme spot for cocktails - think blood orange margaritas, espresso martinis and classic negronis. Plus the venue provides an intimate ambience - fab for first dates.

East London tiki bar Leyton Calling is hidden away in the archways of Leyton Midland Station. The space is decked out in a 70's tropical Americana style, with cane furniture, hanging fishing nets and woven lanterns.

The drinks menu is similarly themed, from the Dutty Banana to an Espresso Mar-Tiki, and lime marmalade and prickly pear-flavoured margarita.

As sleek and as sexy as its clientele, this is one of our recommended bars in East London. With a late license keeping the place open until 3am six nights a week, and a selection of happy hour drinks deals, this is one of the best bars in East London for after work drinks or fun time partying until the early hours. They've got something pretty special going on in Monument and St Paul's, too!

If you're a rum lover, you're in for a treat. Bringing tropical vibes and jaw-dropping views to the heart of Shoreditch, Pineapple Xpress is a colourful Caribbean haven perfect for your next mate date. Make your way to this lush joint's top floor as the sun sets to sip on expertly crafted demon-water cocktails like the fruity Magnum Punch, the refreshing Lucky Luch and their signature Rum Punch.

When it comes to East London joints, Colours Hoxton is a top choice. Whether you're popping in for £5 cocktails from 5pm to 9pm between Wednesday and Friday or, heading to one of the bottomless brunches and live music gigs, this impressive venue is sure to hit the spot.

Located near the heart of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Outpost London is a hidden gem offering a combination of great food, drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere. Featuring a Garden Room adorned with hanging plants and a cosy Library area, it provides a perfect balance of elegance and comfort.

Whether enjoying a cocktail on the covered terrace with views of the East Bank development or tucking into an Italian-inspired stone-baked pizza, guests are treated to a delightful experience. 

With a sophisticated interior and two beautiful outdoor spaces, Devonshire Terrace is one of the best places to drink in East London. The wine menu is the main attraction with a huge selection to choose from, whilst the chic decor will make any night or day feel exclusive.

A bar, club and rooftop in the heart of Shoreditch, Queen of Hoxton is a mainstay for everything from summertime sips to disco-themed karaoke rooms, great views and club nights. Each winter, their rooftop also gets a makeover winter twist - think giant heated yurt, roaring fires, and unbeatable views across East London. 

East London is full of characterful drinking dens, but The Prince stands out by blending sophistication with soul. This is where sharp tailoring meets strong cocktails and proper social vibes.

It's the kind of place where the bartenders remember your drink and the soundtrack lifts your mood without shouting over your chat. Cocktails are crafted with precision (fresh juices squeezed à la minute, punches mixed to perfection), and the attitude stays charming.

Where to drink in East London? On the corner of Hoxton Square, Gigi's is a popular choice, bringing you a winning combination of eating, drinking and dancing. A top spot for a night out with friends, this one's known for hosting big names such as Kraftwerk and Little Mix.

Can't decide what to eat? Head to one of the best restaurants in Canary Wharf and get ready to chow down on scrumptious sushi, tacos, fried chicken and dumplings while also leaving room for a few drinks at its two fully-stocked bars on-site.

Apples and Pears is a cocktail bar in East London that merges relaxed evenings with raucous club nights. Along with various live music performances during the week, the hangout also plays a range of funk, soul and old school hip hop songs.

Going from bright and colourful art-clad walls to broody low-lit nooks, Dream Bags Jaguar Shoes has a regularly changing interior. Cool decor is paired with unusual serves, seasonal cocktails and a buzzy atmosphere that only intensifies come the weekend when the party moves downstairs.

Swift Shoreditch is a popular cocktail bar located on Great Eastern Street sporting pretty European interiors and banquette seating. Open until midnight towards the end of the week, it's the perfect spot in town for a bespoke tipple or date night. Enjoy a signature rhubarb and custard tipple or its own Irish coffee, or venture into the extensive wine and beer lists.

Charming drinkers with giant maypoles, wicker masks and brass icons galore, Hand Of Glory is serving up something a little different. Plonk yourself at a table and prepare for a feast; there's a rotating menu of culinary delights and plenty of ciders, craft beers and home-infused gins.

Showcasing brilliant quiz nights and a beaut beer garden, Hackney Church Brew Co is a great shout. The venue flaunts a list of 6 classic brews, alongside scrumptious Indian food from Masterchef star, Aaron Thomas - think goat curry and tikka masala.

If you like your traditional London pubs with a side of speakeasy secrecy, you'll love The Natural Philosopher. Think rich wood and exposed brick interiors, traditional leather stools and walls covered in all kinds of curiosity shop finds.

The drinks list won't let you down either. There's a specially curated collection of 24 whiskies to choose from, on top of classic cocktails, fine wines and craft beer.

This East London bar is dedicated to Hollywood legend Steve McQueen and packs three rather impressive punches - a restaurant, bar and club. That is not all. Q Shoreditch is also the home of live music and popular comedy nights.

Sip N Tell Bar is a vibrant watering hole, nestled in the heart of Old Street. Here, guests are invited to indulge in eclectic quenchers that artfully meld the conventional with the extraordinary. Emanating an ambience reminiscent of a tropical haven, the bar serves innovative libations that redefine the boundaries of traditional mixology, featuring cocktails like Velvet Punch and Exotic Clear Colada.

A rustic-looking venue in Hackney, The London Fields has turned a historic Victorian building into a bustling cocktail bar and restaurant. Expect dark wooden furnishings and long bench tables in this cool space.

They serve authentic Italian eats, including handmade wood-fired pizzas and freshly crafted pasta. There's a whole lot to choose from behind the bar as well, and they specialise in gin cocktails.

Netil 360 has earned its spot among the best bars in East London thanks to its seasonal versatility, sweeping views, and buzzing energy. Whether you're catching a Friday night with soulful, global sounds or dancing through Saturday's deep house and disco sets, the bar's weekly music program keeps the crowd moving.

Foodies can indulge in stone-baked Neapolitan pizzas made for sharing, while cocktail enthusiasts enjoy warming signature drinks or natural wines and local craft beers. 

When it comes to rooftop bars in East London, Pergola on The Wharf is one of our favourites. Make your way through the idyllic gardens above Crossrail Place to uncover the gorgeous venue, where Friday DJ nights, bottomless brunches and cocktails await.

Searching for delightful places to drink in East London? Head to PIVO for pints of beer from small breweries in Prague as well as traditional Czech dishes if you get a bit peckish - we mean meatball gratins and confit duck legs.

Start your evening with a professionally mixed imbibe here, before dancing your way through the night. Loves Company is definitely no shrinking violet, with weird and wonderful decorations and excellent music that's anything but tame.

Jin Bo Law is one of Aldgate's prettiest bars, both inside and out. Located on the 14th floor of Dorsett City Hotel, the sky-high stunner has a summer-perfect roof terrace, bright and colourful interiors and an all-too-drinkable cocktail list.

Undoubtedly one of the best bars in East London, Callooh Callay is an experimental cocktail haunt. Boasting renowned signature tipples, a great atmosphere and a gorgeous secret room, this beauty is perfect for a date night.

Find your way to Howling Hops Tank Bar, tucked away near Queen Elizabeth Park in Hackney Wick. This friendly brewery boasts cool industrial decor and low-hanging lights, making it the ideal spot for enjoying pints.

With ten massive tanks pouring a diverse lineup of beers right from their on-site brewery, you'll want to gather your pals in the spacious beer hall or the outdoor garden. Plus, savour the flavours of Latin fusion cuisine from La Cunbia, featuring tempting dishes like fries topped with pico de gallo.

Named as one of the world's best cocktail bars, Coupette is a haven for all things French. With a menu of unique libations, such as maple Americanos and Champagne pina coladas, this watering hole in Bethnal Green and Soho screams European elegance. 

When it comes to cheap drinks in East London, you can't beat Simmons. The kitsch Liverpool Street boozer has award-winning happy hours that'll have you sipping on £2.50 G&Ts and bottles of beer everyday, except Saturday. Not in the area? Check out the Shoreditch location.

Located smack bang in the middle of Shoreditch's social hub and the streets of Bethnal Green, The Cocktail Club is your go-to for a unique sip. Choose between quirky creations like rose petal martinis and jam jar daiquiris before sitting back and taking in the sultry environment until the party starts.

At No90, the music is just as much a part of the experience as the food and drinks. Whether it's live bands, DJ sets, themed parties, or eclectic events like bingo nights and film screenings, this venue is always buzzing with energy.

The three spaces - No90 Bar, No90 Hideout, and No90 Live - are each fitted with state-of-the-art sound systems, meaning every performance hits just right. If you're looking for a spot where the music, the people, and the atmosphere are always on point, No90 is your go-to for unforgettable nights in Hackney Wick.

The Shoreditch is on the front line of East London's bustling entertainment and cultural scene. Based across two floors, the lounge bar transforms into a full-frontal party as the night goes on, complete with disco bangers and dance hits.

Discover The Solo Bistro & Cocktail Bar, a hidden gem tucked just moments away from the vibrant neighbourhood of Bethnal Green. Take a seat in this lively sanctuary and indulge in a diverse selection of wines, craft beers, and classic cocktails, including espresso martinis, cosmopolitans and pina coladas.

One of the best bars in East London, this unique offering in the heart of The City promises is a slap-up selection of craft beers and fine wines, alongside tasty pub grub and a large, heated beer garden.

One of the best watering whole on this side of the city, East London Liquor Company not only has a cool, converted warehouse location, but also an outdoor terrace too. Better yet, the distillery bar stirs up a load of whisky and gin cocktails.

Found just a stone's throw from Regent's Canal, Signature Brew Haggerston is a top-notch taproom and live music venue that knows how to host a great night out. They've welcomed bands and artists like Mastodon, Alt-J, Mogwai and Frank Turner in the past, with regular quizzes and comedy performances taking place here too. They brew their very own pilsners, IPAs and more on site, which can be enjoyed in their exposed brick interiors or outdoors in their spacious beer garden.

Fun East London bars? Barrio has got to be one of the most entertaining party spots and a brilliant place to let your hair down whilst enjoying delicious cocktails. With South American-themed drinks and colourful furnishings, this hangout's a strong shout for an after-work drink or two.  

With art deco finishes, low lighting and neon bar signs, Silk Stockings brings the New York lounge to East London. Expect pool, hip-hop and leather bound booths.

The cocktails are just as intriguing, with all kinds of twists on classic concoctions. If you're here on a Friday or Saturday, there's oysters, beef tartare, fried chicken and plenty more side plates to soak up the liquor.

Lively restaurant by day and buzzing bar by night, Bambi takes its music as seriously as it food and drink. Think custom high‑fidelity sound system, wall‑to‑wall vinyl and resident DJs curated by Charlie Dark MBE.

The kitchen bangs out all kinds of delicious dishes, from seabass ceviche to cauliflower cheese arancini. Whether you're here to dine or dance, you can sip your way through low‑intervention wines, aperitivo cocktails and craft brews.

Searching for haunts in Shoreditch? The Macbeth is coming in hot with delicious tipples - think espresso martinis, yuzu margaritas and ginger brambles, alongside scrumptious bar snacks. Plus, the spot boasts sleek decor, complete with leather booths and nods to Shakespeare.

In a Grade-II listed building on the Hackney Road, Equal Parts blends rustic charm with East London cool. Think exposed plaster, reclaimed lighting and vinyl soundtracks. 

The drinks list is just as fun-packed. Take your pick from short, boozy classics made from "equal parts" of spirits and mixers or signature serves like raw chilli palomas and preserved lemon drops.

From the DIY party crew behind The Cause, All My Friends has fast become Hackney Wick's ultimate hangout. A truly hybrid space, it brings together street food, creative cocktails, craft ale and street food.

Think vinyl-lined walls, a custom hi-fi sound system and a rotating lineup of selectors spinning everything from rare groove to world disco. To keep your refreshed, there's house beers, natural wines and signature serves like The Big Smoke and Sake My Yuzu.

Fancy an evening with sky-high sips? Head to Dalston Roofpark for a fabulous rooftop bar, complete with cocktails and food from BEER + BURGER. If that wasn't enough, you can check out their wonderful events, which range from bottomless brunches to DJ sets.

views of the Royal Docks and Canary Wharf. This repurposed Royal Navy refuelling barge mixes industrial design with open-air charm: grab a drink below deck in the cosy, steel-clad interior, or head upstairs to the decked beer garden complete with picnic tables and fairy lights.

Though it doesn't have a full kitchen, its onboard pizza offerings hit the spot for casual snacking. Dog-friendly and independently operated, it's a seasonal hotspot where locals and tourists come for chilled drinks, great views, and an unforgettable dockside experience.

Dalston's cool neon-lit gay bar is perfect for a night out, fun date or karaoke catch-up with friends. Balancing intimate with artsy and opening until late each weekend, Village 512 is the quirky after-party spot you've been searching for.