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London

While many patrons praise the innovative cocktails and unique ambiance, some have noted issues with service quality and seating arrangements.

Discover the charm of experimental cocktails at ECC Chinatown London Bar 

Tucked away behind an unassuming door on Gerrard Street in London’s vibrant Chinatown, the Experimental Cocktail Club (ECC) offers a secretive speakeasy experience that excites cocktail enthusiasts and night owls alike. This multi-level basement bar is famed for its innovative, cleverly crafted cocktails that lean towards rich and sweet flavor profiles, creating a unique tasting journey that lives up to its adventurous name.

Step inside ECC Chinatown, and you’ll find a cozy yet buzzing lounge that perfectly captures the mystique of a classic speakeasy. The ambiance is intimate, with dim lighting and a sleek design that provides an ideal backdrop for a relaxed evening or a lively night out. However, be prepared for a lively crowd, especially later in the evening, when the venue transforms into a more spirited club-like atmosphere that might feel a bit crowded to some guests.

The menu at ECC Chinatown is a playground for cocktail aficionados seeking unusual combinations and memorable flavors. Expect artfully mixed drinks with a creative twist, though they tend to favor the richer and sweeter end of the spectrum. For those who prefer lighter or more spirit-forward cocktails, options may be limited. Quality ingredients and clever mixing techniques ensure an experience that’s both unique and indulgent.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger groups, as seating can fill quickly on busy weekends. The bar’s location across multiple floors means it may not be fully wheelchair accessible, so keep this in mind when planning your visit. ECC Chinatown accepts various payment methods including contactless and cards, but does not offer takeout or delivery services.

 - 13a Gerrard St, London W1D 5PS, United Kingdom

 - Sunday-Monday: 6pm-Midnight; Tuesday-Wednesday: 6pm-2am; Thursday-Saturday: 6pm-3am

 - Recommended, especially for groups of 7 or more, with online and email booking options

 - Multi-floor layout with stairs; may not be fully wheelchair accessible

Frequently asked questions about ECC Chinatown

What are the opening hours of Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown?

 The bar operates from Sunday to Monday: 6pm-Midnight; Tuesday to Wednesday: 6pm-2am; Thursday to Saturday: 6pm-3am.

Is there a cover charge after a certain time?

 Yes, a £5 cover charge is applicable after 11pm.

 Reservations are recommended, especially for groups of 7 or more. For smaller groups, bookings can be made online or via email.

 The bar is located on multiple floors with stairs; it may not be fully wheelchair accessible.

 Yes, ECC Chinatown offers private event hosting with a unique and intimate setting.

Community sentiment and visitor impressions

The Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown has cultivated a reputation for delivering an adventurous and stylish cocktail experience that many patrons rave about, especially appreciating the exclusivity of its speakeasy vibe and the creativity behind its drinks. However, experiences vary, with some visitors expressing concerns about inconsistent service quality and seating comfort during busy nights. While the atmosphere often delights guests seeking an intimate lounge setting, the transformation into a crowded club scene at peak times has sparked mixed feelings among the community. Overall, ECC Chinatown stands as a distinctive destination for those eager to explore innovative cocktails in London's bustling nightlife scene, with the recommendation to book ahead and arrive with an open mind to the dynamic atmosphere.

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled within the vibrant streets of Chinatown, the Experimental Cocktail Club is a hidden gem that beckons cocktail enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike. As you approach the unassuming door at 13a Gerrard Street, you might feel a thrill of anticipation. Step inside, and you’ll be transported to a world of sophisticated mixology and intimate ambiance. This speakeasy-style bar offers a unique twist on classic cocktails, each crafted with precision and flair, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in the art of cocktail culture.

The cocktail menu is a masterpiece in itself, featuring innovative concoctions that tantalize the taste buds. One standout is the "Banana Bliss," a creamy blend that promises a delightful escape with every sip. Imagine the rich flavor of ripe bananas mingling with a hint of vanilla, topped off with a dash of nutmeg—it's a dessert in a glass. Another must-try is the "Elderflower Collins," a refreshing twist on the classic Tom Collins, where floral notes dance with zesty lemon, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Each drink is not just a beverage; it’s an experience, crafted to evoke memories and spark conversations.

The ambiance of the Experimental Cocktail Club is equally enchanting. Dimly lit with plush seating, it creates an intimate setting perfect for both romantic evenings and lively gatherings with friends. A fun fact: the bar’s design pays homage to the Prohibition era, with its hidden entrance and vintage decor, making it feel like a secret escape from the bustling city outside. This unique atmosphere is complemented by the attentive staff, who are not just bartenders but mixology enthusiasts eager to share their knowledge and passion.

 The dress code is smart casual, so feel free to dress up a bit for a night of cocktails.

 The bar is open from 6 PM to 2 AM, making it a perfect spot for late-night adventures.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the Experimental Cocktail Club is waiting to whisk you away on a flavorful journey. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this unique cocktail haven—make your reservation today and discover the magic behind the door at Gerrard Street.

Experimental cocktails in a speakeasy-style basement club, hidden behind a Chinatown door.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyeEtMTVRnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ03seTNIEdkgR_bVvGVN2-d4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyeEtMTVRnEAE

Fantastic speakeasy, complete with a nondescript door in the middle of a busy pedestrian street. Loved the lounge and vibes, the mood was exactly what I wanted for a Saturday evening after dinner. Cocktails were great, though leaned towards the richer and sweeter side, with few options feeling light or alcohol forward. Still, really clever and unique combinations, living up to the name!

My partner and I walked in around 21:00 and were able to be seated, but I would make a reservation in the future to secure a spot, it was filling up the longer we stayed stayed. We’ll definitely be bringing friends and visitors here!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzaC1hX3R3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ03seTNIEdkgR_bVvGVN2-d4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzaC1hX3R3RRAB

We were there on Saturday night. The cocktails were poor, especially for the price. The service wasn't particularly friendly either, so after one drink we got the bill, and asked for the 12.5% service charge to be removed because it definitely wasn't deserving of a tip. When we asked for this, the waiter got incredibly rude and hostile. As he got the new bill and we paid, he spent the next few minutes rolling his eyes and making snarky comments and making us feel incredibly uncomfortable and upset. We will never come back here again and I hope that people read this review before going as well.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMm8tdDZBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ03seTNIEdkgR_bVvGVN2-d4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMm8tdDZBRRAB

Dennis, our server, must have been having a terrible night. The rest of the staff seemed very bitter and irritated to be there (I waited tables for years so it is difficult to understand there are basic standards of hospitality that you need to meet even if you’re having a bad night).

We booked a table for about 10 for our friend’s 30th birthday in advance. We were shocked by how grumpy and rude our server was and our 3 friends had to stand (there were multiple seats available). With the server’s attitude, we didn’t know what we did wrong to be treated so badly.

When they tried to sit down they were forced to get back up and were not even offered bar stools or chairs. You would think since we reserved our area in advance there would be more consideration and higher quality service. I would expect better. Basic hospitality standards were not achieved.

I used to work as a server for years and especially in a cocktail bar like that I’d expect better service.

The cocktails were filled mostly with ice (don’t know if, again, this was on purpose). Price wise you don’t get much of a bang for your buck.

Disappointed overall however the atmosphere was nice and the entrance was definitely unique/fun - that’s the only thing I’d say was up to standard.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzaDV5MURBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ03seTNIEdkgR_bVvGVN2-d4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzaDV5MURBEAE

We usually love going here but our most recent visit on Monday was a huge disappointment. We ordered a banana bliss and an elderflower collins. The banana cocktail didn’t have a hint of banana taste - we have tried at least eight different types of cocktails here in the past and the flavours have usually tasted somewhat like the description. We double checked with the server to confirm we got the right drink.

The elderflower drink also did not taste at all like elderflower and missed other notes/ingredients described such as the maraschino cherry. It tasted like dish soap. Despite being the only people there, service was also quite poor.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuaHFEX0t3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ03seTNIEdkgR_bVvGVN2-d4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuaHFEX0t3EAE

Drinks and service were great. However, what was once an ambient lounge has turned into an over crowded club with clumsy, unaware barely legally allowed to drink customers launching themselves at the bar to order, disturbing sitting customers. If this were a pub, that may be expected. This venue calls itself a club, and yet everyone is allowed in without awareness of crowding or ambiance. The person at the entrance is purely decorative as there does not seem to be coordination between entrance and venue in terms of numbers.

Experimental Cocktail Club: Unique Speakeasy in London

Established in 2010, Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown is a speakeasy-style bar located in London's Chinatown, offering innovative cocktails in a unique setting.

Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown: A Hidden Gem in London's Chinatown District.

Nestled discreetly at 13a Gerrard Street in the vibrant heart of London's Chinatown, the Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown has been captivating cocktail enthusiasts since its establishment in 2010. This speakeasy-style basement bar invites visitors into an intimate, clandestine world where innovation meets tradition in mixology.

The venue's entrance is cleverly disguised behind an unassuming Chinatown door, perfectly setting the tone for a night of discovery. Inside, the ambiance is a masterful blend of cozy lounge vibes and a touch of mystery, creating an alluring atmosphere for visitors seeking a unique night out. The Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown is renowned for its creative and often unexpected cocktail combinations, which challenge the palate with rich, sweet, and thoughtfully balanced flavors.

Since opening its doors in 2010, the club has established itself as a pioneering destination for experimental cocktails in London. Its speakeasy roots pay homage to the clandestine bars of the Prohibition era, yet it uniquely blends contemporary mixology techniques with a touch of theatricality that keeps patrons coming back. This fusion has made it a beloved spot not just for locals but also for global travelers and digital nomads who appreciate a sophisticated yet adventurous drinking experience.

 featuring rich, sweet blends and cleverly crafted drinks that reflect the club’s experimental ethos.

 that transports guests to a hidden, exclusive bar experience behind a nondescript door.

 making it a cultural hotspot for both locals and tourists exploring London’s rich and diverse culinary scene.

 that continues to attract a dynamic crowd drawn by its unique blend of history, creativity, and vibrant nightlife.

Winding through the pulsating heart of London's Chinatown, Gerrard Street is alive with the tantalizing aromas of authentic cuisine and the vibrant colors of lanterns illuminating every corner. At number 13a, a hidden gem awaits: the Experimental Cocktail Club. This upscale cocktail bar is a sanctuary for connoisseurs and casual sippers alike, where masterful mixology dances with creativity. Here, each drink tells a story, conjuring flavors that are as adventurous as the venue itself.

Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown

A selection of innovative cocktails crafted by expert mixologists, featuring unique combinations and classic bases with a twist.

Sichuan Gimlet

London Mule

Cocktail Menu

Discover a curated selection of innovative cocktails at Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown, nestled on Gerrard Street, London. This speakeasy-style basement club offers a unique blend of expertly crafted drinks featuring both classic and adventurous ingredients.

 is a vibrant starter cocktail that combines the warmth of rum with refreshing mint and zesty lemon juice, lifted by champagne and balanced with bitters, ginger cordial, and sugar syrup for a complex, sparkling introduction to your evening.

 brings together the richness of rum with the lively spice of ginger and the effervescent touch of champagne, creating a sophisticated and bubbly classic with a tropical twist.

 features an intriguing mix of clarified milk punch, creamy coconut, and juicy pineapple, delivering an exotic flavor profile that transports you to island paradise with every sip.

 is a refreshing blend of Sipsmith London Dry Gin with the floral sweetness of elderflower cordial and a crisp splash of lemon juice, perfect for lovers of bright, botanical cocktails.

 combines smooth vodka with fresh basil, zesty lemon, and aromatic elderflower cordial, creating a uniquely vibrant and herbaceous main cocktail that truly lives up to its name.

While the Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown primarily focuses on exceptional cocktail creations, the rich, layered flavors of their drinks offer a delightful alternative to traditional desserts, making each sip a sweet, satisfying finale.

The bar is celebrated for its speakeasy vibe and creative cocktail experiments, making it a hotspot for those seeking rich, sweet-forward drinks with clever combinations. Expect a menu that emphasizes bold flavors with champagne, tropical fruits, and fresh herbs. While the cocktail experience here is the highlight, the atmosphere adds an extra layer of excitement to your night out in London’s Chinatown.

Signature cocktails include a mix of rum, gin, vodka, and unique ingredients like clarified milk punch, elderflower cordial, and fresh basil.

Perfect for cocktail enthusiasts looking to explore inventive and tropical flavor profiles in an intimate, hidden basement venue.

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot at this popular London speakeasy with a distinctive Chinatown entrance.

Unwind at Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown, London’s hidden gem. Savor innovative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere. Visit us now!

Hidden Gem in London: Experimental Cocktail Club

London Borough of Westminster

Host your next event at ECC Chinatown, offering a unique setting for private gatherings.

Private Events

Enjoy live music performances on select nights, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere.

Live Music

Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown: Hidden Gem of London’s Nightlife Scene

Nestled discreetly behind a nondescript door on bustling Gerrard Street in London’s vibrant Chinatown, the Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown offers a truly unique night out. This intimate speakeasy-style basement bar is beloved by those who crave inventive cocktails and an atmospheric hideaway tucked away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

 The venue’s aura effortlessly balances a cozy lounge vibe with the excitement of a buzzing cocktail club, perfect for an evening of refined indulgence or lively celebrations.

At the heart of Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown is an expertly curated cocktail menu that dazzles with clever, unique flavor combinations. While many drinks lean towards richer and sweeter profiles, adventurous palates will appreciate the inventive mixes that live up to the club’s experimental name. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a curious first-timer, expect an engaging tasting experience that sparks conversation and delight.

Intimate ambiance and reservations recommended

The club’s underground lounge offers a moody, inviting environment that makes it an ideal spot for date nights or small group gatherings. Seating is limited, and the space tends to fill up quickly as the evening unfolds, so booking a reservation ahead of time is highly advised to secure your spot in this sought-after locale.

Exclusive offerings to elevate your experience

 - Host your next event at ECC Chinatown, offering a unique and intimate setting perfect for memorable gatherings with friends or colleagues.

 - On select nights, enjoy captivating live music performances that amplify the vibrant and sophisticated atmosphere.

While Experimental Cocktail Club Chinatown is praised for its creative drinks and intimate setting, visitors should be aware that service experiences can vary. The venue does not offer takeout or delivery, but embraces cashless payments including contactless NFC, debit, and credit cards for convenience. There is no outdoor seating or free parking on site, so planning your arrival accordingly will ensure a smooth visit.

Greater London

Discover innovative cocktails at ECC Chinatown, known for vibrant atmosphere, signature drinks, and central London location. Reserve now!

Experimental Cocktail Club London - Unique Chinatown Cocktails

Experience the vibrant nightlife at ECC Chinatown, offering creative cocktails, live music nights, and a unique setting in London's Chinatown. Book today!

Exploring ECC Chinatown London - Top Bar & Nightlife Spot

Established in 2010, ECC Chinatown offers innovative cocktails, unique ambiance, and a rich history. Discover the story behind London's favorite speakeasy.

Cocktail menu overview

starters

mains

desserts

drinks and specials

Isabel Mayfair

ROKA Charlotte Street

Amazonico London