Cahoots (Bar)

Top 10 things you need to know about Cahoots:

1) Finding it is no walk in the park. It’s definitely nowhere near a park. Head to Soho, to Carnaby Street, branch off into Kingly Court, and then just ask someone. You can’t even pace it out virtually on Google maps, but maybe that’s the point.

2) IT’S A SECRET. High spirits, scoundrels and swing - that’s what you’re in for. It’s a quirky underground bar, set in a disused station where the 1940’s has been perfectly preserved, right down to the thermos flasks and ration cards.

3) It’s an Instagrammers heaven - polka dot dresses, headscarves, sandbags and station clocks, everything and everyone is in on theme. It’s veering towards exclusive, so it’s best you book a table.

4) You’ll be amongst a mature, upmarket crowd; take an out-of-towner here and they’ll think both you, and London, are the coolest thing ever.

5) It’s quite female-heavy with a few dates scattered in between. Definitely a second or third date destination - maybe a little bit hectic for a first date.

6) Upbeat, jazzy-jivey music floods the place and sets a fun, lively atmosphere, turning frowns upside down and putting dull days behind you, fast. Great for a post work drink with mates.

7) It’s all about the cocktails - you’re not going here to relax or eat yourself into a food coma. Order an ice cold Gypsy’s Kiss complete with sprigs of lavender, or an Apples and Pears for a fruity lift. If you’re heading on, order a Cahooch! for the road – a special Cahoots rum concoction that’ll give you a kick in the right direction (definitely not homeward).

8) The ration card is true to its name, but there’s enough to keep your stomach from caving in. The crisp and salad cream sandwich is just that - no fancy dressings or seasonings, but it’s SO good. You’ll wonder why you don’t make them at home the whole time.

9) If you love it, the cheese and Marmite toastie is a dream. If you hate it, go for the sausage roll or pork pie. The meat and pickles perhaps not the best choice - that’s one thing that has definitely come along since 1940.

10) This place will knock out a bad mood in a minute. A lively underground time trap, ticking away in secret and waiting to be found....read more