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Archer Street, Piccadilly Circus, London
Let me introduce you to Archer Street, a “sophisticated cocktail bar with a lot of personality in the heart of Soho”! As soon as we entered there was an immediate atmosphere of sheer entertainment and bliss. We were welcomed by their professionally trained performers (I mean staff), many of whom have worked in the popular West End musicals such as Hair Spray, Shrek, Dream Girls, We Will Rock You, Book of Mormon, Jersey Boys, Les Misérables, Wicked and many more who gave us a small performance within the cocktail bar – already providing us with a unique and memorable taste.
It came as a shock to find out that Archer Street had only just launched on the 21st September 2011, because its offer designed to suit such a needed vibe within London’s west end – an intermediate between relaxing and having a great time. And both ends of the spectrum if need be! Whatever the occasion; pre-food, pre-theatre, post work, post dinner, pre/post-anything! It would be an undoubtedly celebratory special occasion if you’re looking for a quality, uplifting night out.
| The History |
In 1920’s London, Archer Street was the London Orchestral Association’s headquarters and became the popular meet-up hive for local theatre and club musicians to perform, socialize and share their stories. Now, the Archer Street Cocktail Bar is a brand that defies expectations. An entertainment-fuelled experience like no other, with West End singers as hosts who know how to get the party started with impromptu singing, dancing and warm hospitality!
The Evening Standard described the ambience as “All Singing, All Dancing!” – JPR.
Founder of Archer Street Bar, Siobhan Magill successfully operated clubs and bars for over two decades; most notably transforming Freedom club on Wardour Street into the stylish versatile performance place for West End talent. He founded the greatness that is Archer Street, dividing it into the Cocktail bar and the Basement Bar!
| The Interiors |
| C O C K T A I L | B A R |
The first thing you notice upon entry is the sophisticated cocktail bar, its amber mood lighting during the evening continues its exciting personality. This is the first floor of its spacious and elegant bars in which the talented team that entertain guests are spread across sporadically throughout the evening with live singing performances.
The bespoke cocktail list of Archer Street changes seasonally, but as a non-alcoholic their options were more than satisfying. Charcuterie and Cheese platters are offered throughout the evening and bespoke canapes, bowl food are provided by caterers for special event requests such as Christmas functions, corporate bookings, launch parties, and parties over 20 people. We had a nice meat and cheese platter to share right next to the DJ, where private hire bookings within the already existing entertainment can be made!
Inside, the street level bar features large French windows, distressed wood panelling, plush velvet stools and armchairs. I especially loved the silver-topped tables which were dressed with lightly scented candles, spherical glass lights and fresh lilies create a sultry atmosphere as evening falls!
This area has a luxurious and sophisticated feel to it, with live music and DJ adding a buzz to the atmosphere any night of the week. With music ranging from classing 90s rnb to cheesy pop! I did suggest that it could be an amazing karaoke spot but for some reason that hasn’t caught on…
| B A S E M E N T | B A R |
For the winter months, the Piste Bar located in the basement is decked out with all the luxuries of a ski lodge, offering the perfect après-ski environment for all those missing the slopes during the winter season. Cosying up next to the fur-lined loungers with a festive cocktail, this venue provides the perfect wintry escape from the cold outside. The Piste bar is an unforgettable destination for events with its perfect balance of luxury and comfort.
Stylist Magazine applauded Archer Street as the “perfect spot to celebrate.”
Every six months the basement bar is refurbished to an exquisite pop-up and offers guests a theme appropriate for the season. And this time, prior to the England vs West Indies test match from 17th – 21st August, three of the cricketing world’s greatest legends, Sir Andy Roberts, Sir Richie Richardson and the master blaster himself, Sir Viv Richards hosted an exclusive a Cricketing Question Time in London on 14th August. And we were lucky enough to attend!
The Antigua and Barbuda Beach Shack was launched, with real sand at our feet, a thatched Caribbean roof, a lightbox image from Antigua of the English Harbour from Shirley Heights view-point, a cultural wall with images and post cards from Antigua and a beach trail map. There is no surprise that these experiences at Archer Street’s discretion have attracted loyal customers as well as celebrities like Javier Bardem, Little Mix, Pierse Morgan, Thom Evans, Steps, Mel C, Sinitta, Teddy Shering, Andy Carol, Tom Felton and many more!
To inspire the atmosphere of their Antiguan homeland, the event took place within the Basement Bar at the Antigua Beach Shack pop up! From 7.30pm, cricketing fans and those who want to hear a bit more about the tropical island, such as Ainsley Harriott, where these cricket heroes hail from, came to hear a Q&A in the week leading up to the England vs West Indies test match!
The three former West Indies players were very passionate about their homeland and its cricketing heritage which has produced some of the world’s best players. Andy Roberts emerged as an international star during the mid-Seventies from which followed an outstanding career as a fast bowler. Richie Richardson, the former captain of the West Indies, developed into one of the game’s most punishing batsmen in the decade following his 1983 debut. The most celebrated of Antigua’s sports legends, however, is Viv Richards, who ranks among the very greatest cricketers of all time. The “Master Blaster” led a West Indian team that dominated world cricket and he is deservedly adulated on his home island today.
As well as talking about their sporting careers at the live Q&A, the three knights talked about their favourite spots on Antigua, tips for anyone travelling there and the island’s incredible cricketing heritage! It was amazing to be able to hear it all first hand from the masters themselves, something truly inspirational. Their sense of humour however, unique – quite British I would say! From the white sand beaches they played cricket on as children to the best beach bars for a refreshing cocktail, the session will provide an insight into some of the hidden gems on Antigua from its most famous residents.
Although this amazing experience cannot be re-experienced, come and create a new one that will last you a lifetime!
Address: 3-4 Archer Street, Soho, London, W1D 7AP
Cocktail Lounge: Mon – Thurs. – 4pm to 1am, Fri – Sat – 2pm to 1am // Basement Bar: Mon – Wed – closed/available for private hire. Thurs. – Sat – 6pm to 1am // Summer openings: 30th June – 19th August: 2pm -2am Fridays and Saturdays // No hire fees apply, minimum spend is subject to day of the week and time // Ground Floor: standing 110, seating 56. Basement: standing 250, seating 80
Contact: +44 (0)20 7734 3342 or to book for a large group or event please contact bookings@archerstreet.co.uk
***Regular customers are invited to become ‘Knights’ of Archer Street as part of their loyalty programme, which includes priority entry on busy evenings, invitations to their many events and complimentary cocktails on special occasions.
Price Range: £££
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| I N S T A G R A M | | F A C E B O O K | | T W I T T E R |
See Things Through My Eyes
Eni Maj 