The Leopard Bar and Cigar Lounge (Bar, Hotel)

Top 10 things to know about The Leopard Bar:

1) We Londoners do enjoy a secret bar, and The Leopard Bar at The Montague on the Garden is a very naughty secret indeed; perfect for those who revel in a little eccentricity.

2) You’ll not know what to expect as you enter the unassuming hotel doors near the British Museum. Discover a bizarre world of audacious themes leading towards the truly wonderful Leopard Bar. If you’re lucky enough to be greeted by Operations Food and Beverage Manager, Luke, you’re in for a wonderful evening.

3) There’s Leopard everywhere! Utterly bedecked from top to toe: the seats, the carpet, the walls, the taxidermy (all antique). If Joan Collins could be a bar, this would be it; tongue in cheek elegance that doesn’t take itself too seriously and yet, you feel really rather special.

4) On Wednesday and Thursday nights there’s live jazz performed by a wonderfully talented trio, The Blazers. Saxophonist, Martin Winning, has played alongside some real musical greats, from Van Morrison and Ray Charles, both on stage and on record!

5) The signature Leopard cocktail very much follows suit – or print rather. Sink into plush, leopard-clad chairs, listen to the soothing sounds of The Blazers and order the cocktail, complete with leopard spots and a leopard paw dusted on the top. It’s creamy whilst still having a lovely alcoholic coffee kick. Something like a cappuccino martini.

6) If cocktails aren’t your vibe, the Leopard Bar has an excellent whisky selection and wine menu. The bar staff are incredibly knowledgeable, and are always more than happy to make suggestions, or create something special for you on the spot.

7) The food menu is simple, high in quality, and varied, with hotel bar classics like a signature club sandwich and steak baguette and other nice bits of finger food like meaty spring rolls: crispy, well seasoned and incredibly moreish.

8) In this bizarre city oasis also lies a cosy and very intimate terrace at the rear. It has a sophisticated cigar terrace feel where guests can enjoy their drinks and listen to the jazz.

9) This is not a cheap night out, but it’s perfect for an unusual date night or even for corporate entertaining.

10) Having too much fun to leave? Well, you’re in luck! There are, of course, rooms available. It is in a hotel, after all....read more