Odyssey, the latest addition to East London’s Hoxton Square, is rapidly establishing itself as the premier whiskey destination in the UK. Located in the heart of the city, this bar is home to over 600 varieties of American whiskey, making it the largest collection in the country. With its unique blend of bold whiskies, curated drinks, modern interiors, and culinary experiences, Odyssey is a haven for whiskey connoisseurs and adventurous drinkers alike.
A Prime Location
Situated in a bustling part of London, The bar offers easy access for locals and visitors alike. Its central location in East London’s Hoxton Square makes it a standout spot in London’s ever-evolving drinks scene. For those who enjoy exploring the city’s best bars, Odyssey also participates in the London Bourbon Experience, a self-guided tour of the capital’s top whiskey bars. This placement underscores its role as a key player in London’s American whiskey culture.
Tony & Michele: The Story Behind the Founders
Odyssey has been founded by Michele Reina, a veteran of the drinks industry with a passion for whiskey. Michele Reina is well known in the whiskey world for his deep knowledge of spirits and his commitment to bringing quality products to a broader audience. He has built relationships with distillers and whiskey experts, shaping his vision for Odyssey as a place to celebrate whiskey’s rich heritage.
Michele Reina is the king of bourbon and one of Michele’s more recent activations is the London Bourbon Experience, a self-guided cocktail tour of London’s best bars, which he founded in 2021. Together, Tony and Michele wanted to create more than just a bar—they envisioned Odyssey as a whiskey haven, where people could not only enjoy premium drinks but also engage with the stories and craftsmanship behind each bottle. Their combined expertise in the industry and personal love for Whiskey has made Odyssey a bar unlike any other, blending tradition with innovation and a sense of community.
Bold Whiskies
Odyssey proudly boasts the largest selection of American whiskey in the UK. Its extensive collection includes rare and limited-edition bottles, such as expressions from the Yellowstone Bourbon series. At its opening party, Stephen Beam, seventh-generation Master Distiller at Limestone Branch Distillery, was on hand to showcase Yellowstone’s finest offerings, including the Yellowstone Toasted Finish and Yellowstone Rum Cask Finish. The bar’s collection is a testament to its dedication to showcasing the heritage and craftsmanship behind these bold spirits.
At the core of Odyssey’s offerings is its unparalleled whiskey selection. With over 600 varieties, it’s a treasure trove for whiskey lovers. The bar also regularly rotates special edition and seasonal releases, keeping its collection fresh and exciting for both novices and seasoned collectors. Each bottle has been carefully curated to represent the best of American whiskey, from rich caramel and oak flavours to more complex profiles that include fruit and spice notes.
There will also be opportunities for special tastings of rare and unique whiskeys in the beautiful subterranean area of Odyssey, so watch this space.
A Selection of Drinks
While whiskey is the star of the show, the bar also boasts a well-rounded selection of other drinks. Its wine list is a thoughtfully curated mix of both international and local varieties. Odyssey puts a particular focus on small, family-owned vineyards, offering unique bottles that aren’t typically found in London bars. Whether you prefer a bold red from a boutique vineyard in France or a crisp white from an up-and-coming English producer, the wine selection is crafted to pair perfectly with the flavours of the food menu.
Beyond wine, Odyssey’s spirits collection is equally impressive. The bar offers an array of premium gins, rums, and tequilas, each with a story to tell. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Gin and Tonic or something more adventurous, the bartenders are on hand to guide you through the options. They take pride in sharing the heritage and production methods behind each spirit, adding an educational element to the drinking experience.
The Food at Odyssey
Odyssey’s culinary offerings are as impressive as its drinks selection. The kitchen serves a variety of food with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. The food menu is designed to complement the rich, complex flavours of the wine and cocktail list, creating a seamless dining and drinking experience. Odyssey’s Kitchen takes great pride in balancing familiar comfort foods with more adventurous options, offering something for everyone.
Vintage & Industrial Inspired Interiors
Odyssey Bar features a striking industrial interior that artfully combines modern sophistication with rustic charm. The prominently exposed brick walls create a warm and inviting backdrop, showcasing the raw beauty of the material and adding a sense of authenticity to the space. The textured surfaces of the brick, with their rich tones and varied patterns, provide a visually captivating contrast to the sleek metal fixtures and contemporary furnishings, enhancing the bar’s overall character. Dim, ambient lighting casts a cosy glow throughout the venue, inviting guests to relax and unwind in this stylish setting that is complimented by the large glass case full of bottles of whisky. Thoughtfully designed seating areas encourage social interaction, whether at the elegant bar or the intimate tables arranged around the space, as well as a combination of wood, barrels, and vintage accent furniture pieces. The overall layout fosters a vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for enjoying the extensive collection of over 600 varieties of American whiskey, alongside expertly crafted cocktails.
Overall
Odyssey Hoxton is more than just a bar—it’s an immersive whiskey experience. With its vast selection of American whiskey, expertly crafted cocktails, delectable plates, and industrial yet vintage interiors, it offers an unparalleled atmosphere for anyone looking to explore the world of whiskey in London. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, Odyssey promises a journey of discovery, quality, and unforgettable moments.
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All imagery courtesy of Odyssey Hoxton.