Classic, bitter, sexy and perfectly balanced; it’s no surprise that this old-school Italian aperitif is doing big things in the bar scene. If you’ve ever tasted an overly bitter, warm or diluted version you’ll understand.  From the classic and pre-batched to the barrel-aged: we've got 5 of London’s most epic Negronis you need to taste.

Bar Termini

When you want coffee in the morning but a Negroni by 5pm. This miniature coffee spot turns into an award-winning bar come the evening, so when you’re done with the espressos, it’s on to the aperitifs. All the Negronis are pre-batched for slick and speedy service and poured straight into a perfectly chilled glass, without ice to dilute the taste. Go classic. Go rose. Go peppercorn. And definitely buy a bottle of pre-batched to take home.

7 Old Compton Street, London W1D 5JE

Do Not Disturb

Escape the warren streets that line the Thames for this super suave speakeasy channelling 1920s New York. You'll know you're in the right place once you've found the 5ft high illuminated keyhole at the bottom of a dark, unmarked staircase. Oh and the Do Not Disturb sign above the door. Ignore that and head on in and order their Barrel Aged Negroni. Just like George Clooney, it just gets better with age.

20 Garlick Hill, London EC4V 2AU 

The Connaught Bar

The only bar in London where the bartenders are slicker than the designer-clad guests. The Connaught’s personalised Negroni starts with the well-experienced bartenders guiding you through your gin and vermouth selections (they recommend Martini Rosso, Gancia Rosso or Punt e Mes). These are then stirred in equal parts with Campari, and served over big chunks of hand-cracked ice, in a crystal glass with a dehydrated orange slice. Perfection!

Carlos Place, Mayfair, London W1K 2AL 

Duck and Waffle

There aren’t many things in life better than this Ristretto Negroni. Fact. It’s got all the usual suspects - Bombay Sapphire gin, vermouths, Campari - but the twist is the coffee.  It's dripped through crushed coffee beans (obviously) to give it a hint of the good stuff and served up with a hunk of ice and an absolutely killer view of London from 48 floors up as a side dish.

Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY

Lino

Ever wanted to drink killer cocktails in an old carpet factory? Who hasn't! Rock up to LINO by London Wall and order the Barrel Aged Negroni. This rosey serve contains all the classic culprits, but it clearly spent its time in the barrel wisely, growing smooth and bold.

You should also check out: How to make a Negroni / London's best gin bars / London's best whiskey bars