OPIUM

Hidden in the heart of Chinatown, Opium Cocktail Bar & Dim Sum Parlour is a secretive spot for late night foodies, boozies, and trendsetters from all around London. Set in arguably the most touristy district of London, Opium is a gem among this area and very worthwhile.

“After entering the main entrance of Opium, I was greeted with dim lighting and a winding staircase up multiple floors. This built my anticipation to see what I would see at the top. Each room sets a different mood for guests. After a pre-dinner drink in the Apothecary Bar, I found the rest of the rooms to fulfill its name perfectly: The Attic, The Academy, The Tea Parlour. The restaurant even has a secret bar, Peony, where the bartender sets the menu. The Academy hosts a big kitchen island to give the bar feel very personal and is available for walk-ins only. This setting was perfect for my guest and I to talk to the bartender and waiter and learn more about Opium.

The ambiance of Opium is definitely on the posher side. With the long walk upstairs and exploring all the different areas and rooms of the restaurant, it is hard not to feel like you’ve entered an exclusive den of Chinatown. Although once settling into our own little corner, its clear that Opium has a feel for everyone to get in on. There were couples, groups of friends, and colleagues all there for drinks and sharers. The space is intimate and friendly for all to enjoy. It was easy to strike up a conversation with strangers across the bar or even hear a bit from the bartender.”

Review By: Elly Perlowitz, December 2015