Critically acclaimed Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese is introducing an outdoor bar experience for Summer 2024 – Velvet Alfresco with CAMPARI.
Launching on 19 June 2024, Velvet Alfresco with CAMPARI has been brought to life in partnership with the iconic Italian red spirit sitting at the heart of some of the world’s most famous cocktails, most notably the Negroni. Velvet Bar Manager Christian Maspes and the CAMPARI team have created an amazing alfresco environment and a summer seasonal cocktail list.
Velvet Alfresco Bar: A Vibrant Secret Terrace
Velvet Alfresco with CAMPARI will continue throughout the summer until September, and is located on an exclusive, hidden terrace above the central courtyard of The Garden restaurant, on the first floor of the hotel. Long-time fans of the Corinthia will remember it as the alfresco mezzanine that hosted Chef Kerridge’s Bar and Grill summer pop-up in 2021.
A colourful Italian summer-inspired design mix of seating and umbrellas by CAMPARI will span the alfresco space, including banquette benches and high tables, all around the beautiful central pergola space. Despite the open alfresco space, those not sheltered under the pergola have nothing to worry about, as umbrellas are also available to shield visitors from the sunny summer weather.
The hidden terrace has a striking and stylish colour scheme reminiscent of the main Velvet bar while keeping the collaboration with CAMPARI at the forefront of visitors’ minds. There is a liberal use of colour, with umbrellas and stools all standing out in sharp crimson hues. Even the lanterns dangling overhead have a distinctly red tint which will remind you of the bright, intense shade of a bottle of Campari. Pops of white from a set of small, round tables add a fresh summery feel to the ensemble.
What about the drinks?
Bittersweet with notes of citrus and spices, Campari has long been a favourite for aperitifs and cocktails. Velvet Alfresco with CAMPARI will remind you exactly why the liquid is so popular with a stunning list of cocktails that make use of its unique Italian flavour profile.
The Velvet Garibaldi puts a creative twist on a well-known and beloved cocktail. Traditionally, the Garibaldi is a nicely textured drink with just two ingredients – Campari and orange juice. The team at Velvet has added their twist by replacing the orange juice with fresh grapefruit juice and passion fruit in a cocktail that will reignite your passion for Campari.
Another excellent cocktail from the Alfresco menu is the Mediterranean Negroni. The long bitter finish and woody, spicy notes of 1757 Vermouth di Torino G.I. Rosso complement the bittersweetness of Campari, while the O’ndina gin accentuates the citrus notes and adds hints of juniper and basil. The Americano also makes use of a vermouth/Campari mix, with a marriage of Campari, Cinzano 1757 Vermouth Rosso, and Orange & Vanilla Soda. For those looking for non-alcoholic options, the Crodino is worth a try. This non-alcoholic Spritz is sure to enchant with its complex herbal bitterness, citrus flavour, and notes of quinine.
Other cocktails to try include:
Shaken Campari With No Hands (Campari, Passion Fruit, Vanilla)
V Peach Bellini (Fresh White Peach, Cinzano)
Salvatore’s Martini (O’ndina gin or Italian Vodka)
Piazza Spritz (Aperol, Eve Liqueur, Cedrata, Cinzano)
Altamule (Italian Vodka, Acqua Bianca, Fresh Lime, San Pellegrino Ginger Beer)
A short aperitivo menu – Sicilian olives, salami Milano and grissini – will accompany the cocktail list. A small selection of Champagne, wine and other great alternatives will also be available.
The Maestro and His Acclaimed Team
Salvatore Calabrese is one of the most renowned living mixologists. He quickly became known for his talent and unique flair, quickly earning himself the nickname of “Maestro” for his creative cocktails. Many of them have become classics with an outsized impact on the industry. For example, his iconic Breakfast Martini has been credited with inspiring a new generation of cocktails using preserves with its clever incorporation of marmalade.
The Velvet Alfresco Bar is under the experienced hands of Christian Maspes, Bar Manager at Corinthia London. The team at Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese were also recently awarded 1 Pin for Excellence by The Pinnacle Guide. A great accolade.
Salvatore Calabrese even said: “I am considering cancelling my holiday on the Amalfi Coast and just sitting there, soaking up the London sunshine and sipping a CAMPARI cocktail instead!” We hope nobody tells Mrs. Calabrese!
Velvet Alfresco with CAMPARI will be open daily from 4 pm – 8 pm. (Access will be via hotel lifts to the first floor.) Walk-in guests will be welcome, as well as bookings on 020-7321 3200.
To find out more, visit corinthia.com/london
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All imagery courtesy of Corinthia Hotels.