If Harry Shum Jr. and Jennifer Lopez were to give birth to a bar in 2020, it would be the new speakeasy at Amazónico London. The smart cookies at Amazónico have managed to keep this speakeasy downstairs a secret since opening late last year (it doesn’t even appear on their website) and now, this secret tropical paradise is open to all.
Going to Amazónico is not just a night out, it’s a really fun experience. This is added to by the beautiful and rather well dressed team who display that anticipatory sixth sense that makes you go “oooooh” when a napkin is replaced or a chair pulled out.
Read more: A night at Amazónico – London’s tropical Eden
Amazónico London have been busy during lockdown. The restaurant and lounge have reopened and are already thrumming with life. In the restaurant, there are some stunning new dishes to try including a native lobster ceviche with coconut gazpacho and Oscietra caviar. There is also a new General Manager in the shape of Aurelien Pottier who brings a French charm to proceedings. They are of course always keeping us all safe with comprehensive safety and well-being measures too.
As we are accompanied downstairs through a corridor in between the open kitchens and down a golden-clad staircase, we marvel at the multitude of magic manoeuvres taking place. Whole pineapples twisting decadently on upright skewers above open coals with sweet caramel aromas wafting by.
Where upstairs is the glamorous canopy of the Amazon, downstairs is a rather sexy, moody underbelly. The room is breath taking and inspired by natural underground Mexican cenote rock pools so the whole space has a sense of magic and mystery. With blue stucco walls and shiny sequin covered columns, this is a rather comfortable speakeasy with pouffes and sofas. The atmosphere has an air of relaxation and anticipation. It’s not stuffy or posey but more fun.
Jeremy Rosen is in charge of the speakeasy. He is a smooth operator and a gracious host. There are no bookings so arrive early and be nice to Jeremy! There is a golden octopus hanging above a DJ booth towards the back and a mix of deep and tropical house. Never too loud to detract from the atmosphere.
The Ritual
The cocktail list has been revamped and there are a couple of signature creations only available at the speakeasy. The Ritual is a twist on a classic Manhattan based made with Zacapa XO with notes of coffee, herbs, spices and a balsamic vermouth. Complex, full of character and will get you going after dinner. The Sea-Tron is made with Ciroc vodka with notes of citrus and melon then topped with Ruinart champagne. Floral, fruity and fancy. Cenotes tend to have very clear, cool, fresh water so we ended the evening with our favourite: A very clear, cool and dry gin martini with a double twist of lemon.
The Sea-Tron
Whether you’re looking for a place to luxuriously while away the evening until the early hours or a few drinks before/after dinner, the speakeasy at Amazónico London should definitely be at the top of your list. Just do us a favour and keep it between us, ok?
To discover more about Amazónico London, visit: amazonicorestaurant.com
The speakeasy is open till 1am Tuesday-Saturday and is walk-in only.
All imagery courtesy of Amazónico.