The world’s first James Bond bar opens in London

For fans of the iconic 007 franchise, the opening of the world’s first James Bond bar in London is like a dream come true. Nestled in London’s iconic Burlington Arcade, the new pop-up bar pays homage to the iconic character created by Ian Fleming. This bar doesn’t just promise a few shaken-not-stirred martinis—it offers a full immersion into the world of Britain’s most famous spy. But does it live up to the hype? Well, let’s dive into what makes this new hotspot so exciting, and whether it’s worth all the attention.

The Interiors 

When you enter the James Bond bar, you’ll immediately feel the unmistakable coolness of Bond’s world. The bar’s decor exudes elegance, featuring sleek furnishings, dim lighting, and subtle references to the films. From the iconic gun barrel sequence etched into the walls to the vintage gadgets on display, every detail has been carefully considered. As you stroll through the Burlington Arcade, you’ll notice three handcrafted sculptures inspired by the Aston Martin DB5 hanging overhead, and a custom carpet with famous lines from the film underfoot. Inside, there are two James Bond bars offering specialty cocktails. For any Bond fan, stepping into the James Bond Bar is like being on a film set. You can’t help but feel a little bit like 007 yourself—or at least wish you had his charm.

The cocktail menu is where the bar truly shines. From the famous Vesper Martini to newer, creative concoctions inspired by Bond’s many global adventures, there’s something for everyone. And remember it’s shaken, not stirred! The bartenders have clearly done their homework – each drink comes with a story, giving you a little taste of Bond’s world in every sip. It’s a playful mix of tradition and innovation, which makes it feel both familiar and fresh at the same time. But if you’re not a cocktail enthusiast, fear not—there are plenty of options for wine and spirit lovers, ensuring that no one is left out of the Bond experience.

For fans of the James Bond movies, there is a wide selection of Bond memorabilia on display. This includes items such as the Fort Knox gold bar, Goldfinger’s golf shoes, and Oddjob’s hat, as well as other never-before-exhibited items. In addition to his daring exploits, Bond is also known for his impressive watch collection. While you can’t take them home with you, a couple of Omega timepieces are on display—the only two James Bond versions made in yellow gold. One of these is the Seamaster Diver 300M Commander’s watch from 2017, and the other is the Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Limited Edition from 2019. Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase exclusive items like limited-edition framed prints. Additionally, there will be a chance to bid on a limited number of Macallan 60th Anniversary Decades whiskey sets and unique items such as the Fabergé Octopussy capsule. This 007 exhibition is a fitting tribute to the 60th anniversary of Goldfinger and will be open until the end of the year. The exhibition is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays, with the bar accepting walk-ins only.

But it’s not just for hardcore fans. Even if you’re someone who’s only casually seen a couple of Bond films, the sophisticated atmosphere makes for a classy night out. It’s more than just a themed bar; it’s an experience, blending luxury with nostalgia.

The bar is open from now until 31, December 2024.