Bars
The 5 Best Bars in Chelsea
Where to drink in Chelsea: the best cocktail rooms, hotel bars and King's Road favourites, chosen on merit.
In short: our top picks are The Cadogan Arms, Barts and Bluebird Chelsea. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
Chelsea drinks with the same quiet confidence it does everything else. Between the King’s Road and the river sits a clutch of polished cocktail rooms, handsome hotel bars and neighbourhood institutions that have been pouring for decades. These are the best bars in Chelsea, chosen for the room, the drinks and the occasion.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Cadogan Arms | Chelsea | £££ |
| Barts | Chelsea | £££ |
| Bluebird Chelsea | Chelsea | £££ |
| The Ivy Chelsea Garden | Chelsea | £££ |
| 606 Club | Chelsea | ££ |
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Editor’s choice
The Cadogan Arms
Why we pick itA handsomely restored King's Road pub with a top-floor cocktail bar; a proper all-rounder.
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Barts
Why we pick itA speakeasy hidden in a Chelsea apartment block, all 1920s glamour and theatrical cocktails.
-
Bluebird Chelsea
Why we pick itA King's Road institution with a buzzy courtyard and a long, polished cocktail list.
Worth knowingLong waits at busy periods, and a seating order that can leave you watching later arrivals served first. Build in time rather than fighting the pace.
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The Ivy Chelsea Garden
Why we pick itA glamorous all-day room with one of the prettiest garden terraces on the King's Road.
-
606 Club
Why we pick itA basement jazz and wine club going strong since the seventies; intimate and unforgettable.
Before you book
Chelsea is smart, so many of the best bars sit inside hotels and members-friendly rooms; dress the part and book ahead at weekends. Go early for a quiet seat, later for atmosphere.
Common questions
What are the best bars in Chelsea?
The Cadogan Arms is our editor's choice: A handsomely restored King's Road pub with a top-floor cocktail bar; a proper all-rounder. The Cadogan Arms, Barts and Bluebird Chelsea lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.
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