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.
- Location - 13a Gerrard St, London W1D 5PS, United Kingdom
- Operating hours - Sunday-Monday: 6pm-Midnight; Tuesday-Wednesday: 6pm-2am; Thursday-Saturday: 6pm-3am
- Cover charge - £5 cover charge applies after 11pm
- Reservations - Recommended, especially for groups of 7 or more, with online and email booking options
- Accessibility - Multi-floor layout with stairs; may not be fully wheelchair accessible
- 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.
- Do I need to make a reservation? Reservations are recommended, especially for groups of 7 or more. For smaller groups, bookings can be made online or via email.
- Is the bar wheelchair accessible? The bar is located on multiple floors with stairs; it may not be fully wheelchair accessible.
- Can I host private events at the bar? Yes, ECC Chinatown offers private event hosting with a unique and intimate setting.
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.
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.
- Innovative cocktail menu featuring rich, sweet blends and cleverly crafted drinks that reflect the club’s experimental ethos.
- Speakeasy ambiance that transports guests to a hidden, exclusive bar experience behind a nondescript door.
- Prime location in Chinatown making it a cultural hotspot for both locals and tourists exploring London’s rich and diverse culinary scene.
- An evolving legacy that continues to attract a dynamic crowd drawn by its unique blend of history, creativity, and vibrant nightlife.
Located at 13a Gerrard St, London, this speakeasy-style bar invites guests to explore a world of innovative cocktails in an intimate setting.
- Innovative and unique cocktail offerings Vibrant and intimate atmosphere Central location in Chinatown Live music on select nights Reservations accepted for convenience
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.
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.
- Private events - Host your next event at ECC Chinatown, offering a unique and intimate setting perfect for memorable gatherings with friends or colleagues.
- Live music - 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.
Discover London's hidden speakeasy
