The Savoy Hotel opened in London in 1889 - and since then a cavalcade of politicians, artists, musicians and actors have stayed, played or raised a glass here.

We haven't booked a room at the hotel, but we've paddled past two of its watering holes.

One is the Beaufort Bar, an Art Deco-designed space which is opened Thursday through Sunday.

The other one is the American Bar, a pilgrimage site for discerning cocktail drinkers. This legendary spot is known for bringing American cocktail culture to Europe circa 1893, and has served such luminaries as Charle Chaplin, Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, Marilyn Monroe and Mark Twain.

We sat in a little cove at the American Bar called the Royal Circle and enjoyed a Cargo Fizz, a delicious treat made with vodka, Lillet, yogurt liqueur, passionfruit, egg white and soda water.

Some may think the American Bar is touristy. It's about as touristy as going for the original Bellini at Cirpriani's in Venice. Meaning, it doesn't matter. There is enough class to attract both well-heeled regulars as travelers and hotel guests. Give it a shot... it's worth a look and at least one well-crafted drink.

ADDRESS

The Strand, Covent Garden

CONTACT

https://www.thesavoylondon.com

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