We spend a lot of time wrapped up in themes. Participation starts early; being dressed as an Easter bunny or an elf during moments we can’t remember and have no control over. This gradually morphs into our school days – Disney birthday parties complete with a ginormous bouncy castle and a Cinderella wondering around somewhere. Growing up, there are themes and celebrations of practically everything at University. Literally, anything goes. But further along it gets serious; do you go for an eloquent Parisian theme for the hen or just get the hell to Marbella? Speaking of alcohol, it’s no surprise to find London catering to our love of themes too with a huge selection of themed bars. It’s a fun way to bring people together and enjoy the night (and make it fully OK to love a theme). Here are our top TEN themed bars in London.
ABQ London
ABQ is London’s very own Breaking Bad bar. Become a chemistry genius and ‘cook’ your own cocktails while admiring the impeccable detail to the show in your surroundings (including the appropriately dress staff in boiler suits). Oh, you’ll be dressing up too.
455 Hackney Road, E2 9DY
Opium
Settled in the heart of Chinatown Opium has found its perfect home. This Oriental themed cocktail bar is actually a three-floor venue complete with Dim Sum platters, Chinese medicine bottles and The Tea Parlor.
15-16 Gerrard Street, W1D 6JE
Callooh Callay
Although not explicitly marketed as a Lewis Carroll themed bar, Callooh Callay has serious Alice In Wonderland vibes. The décor is quirky, the lighting is mysterious and the drinks are the workings of an over-active imaginative mind.
65 Rivington Street, EC2A 3AY
BallieBallerson
We couldn’t do a list of themed bars without a bar that’s themed around balls. That wouldn’t be right. The underground club has 250,000 balls while the upstairs bar is kitted out with plasma balls. Basically, balls everywhere.
79 Stoke Newington Road, N16 8AD
Little Nan’s Rio Bar
If you’re looking for a classic night out, no frills or spills, head to Little Nan’s. In an age where vintage is treasure and we’re all feeling nostalgic, this cute bar offers teacups, vases and appropriately titled cocktails to suit our old-school needs.
107 Kingsland High Street, E8 2PB
Icebar
As you may have guessed, the theme here is ice. Icebar is kept at a chilly -5 degree temp all year round and the crystal clear ice has been harvested especially from the frozen Torne River in Sweden. Thermal wear is provided.
31-33 Heddon Street, W1B 4BN
PimpShuei
PimpShuei is an amazing martial arts themed bar inspired by throwback kung fu cinema and complete with original movie posters and retro arcade games. Get 1 cocktail or 2 beers for £6.50 during happy hour; 5pm-8pm.
59 Mount Pleasant, WC1X 0AY
Anise
Once you’ve finished ogling the gorgeous interiors, settle your eyes on the spice themed cocktail menu. Anise takes Eastern spices, flavours and the best beers, ciders, wines and soft drink from India – and brings them straight to your pallet.
9 Devonshire Square, EC2M 4YL
Floripa
When you don’t have time for a tropical holiday, a tropical themed bar will do the job and Floripa is our pick for the job. Expect bright colours, amazing DJs including Jimi Needles and Ross Clarke, and iconic holiday cocktails.
91-92 Great Eastern Street, EC2A 3HZ
The Bootlegger
Tucked away between a Nandos and a dry cleaners, is this 1920s inspired bar which is perfect for any Great Gatsby fans (or general 1920s fans). There’s an extensive cocktail menu and check out the live bands on Thursdays and Fridays.
25-26 Lime Street, EC3M 7HR
Written by Nikki