Dukes London, Drawing Room

Honestly, not worth it. £30 per cocktail and no effort made with a seasonal menu. I ordered what I thought was simply a “summer cocktail,” only to be told it wasn’t available because it’s winter, something that could have been communicated far more clearly. Embarrassed, I apologised and asked for a recommendation. My husband tried to make conversation, mentioning videos he’d seen on YouTube showcasing their cocktails, but the waiter didn’t even acknowledge him. An interesting approach to hospitality. We also waited over an hour to be seated, as reservations aren’t permitted. I understand this is meant to build hype, but for those travelling into London for the day, it completely disrupts your plans. You’re left hoping you’ll be seated at some point, unable to book anywhere else because you have no idea when (or if) you’ll be called. Rather than adding to the experience, it actively detracts from it and ends up spoiling the day. Once seated, the atmosphere was strangely cold and uncomfortable, not just in temperature, but in feeling. Other tables were chatting and clearly having a nice time, yet our corner felt completely disconnected from any sense of a “bar” environment. There wasn’t even background jazz or ambient music to soften the space. We couldn’t see the bar, were placed at a table with a wonky lamp, and the setting felt more awkward than atmospheric. The service did nothing to improve this. The waiter barely made eye contact, didn’t ask what we’d like so much as gesture in our direction, and showed little interest in explaining or engaging while making the cocktail. There was no sense of theatre, hospitality, or pride in what he was doing, just indifference. Yes, the cocktail was good, but at £30, it should be. At the end of the day, it was gin in a glass, and that alone doesn’t justify the price, the hype, or the reputation. We won’t be returning, which I’m aware makes 0 difference to this establishment but thought maybe I’ll shed some light on this place.