There's a reason he's known as The Maestro - Salvatore Calabrese is one of the most accomplished career bartenders in the world. He led the team at Dukes Bar and developed their masterpiece of a freezer Martini, he's written loads of cocktail bibles and he even created the most expensive cocktail in the world (a vintage Cognac number that clocked in at £5,500, nbd).
So you can expect great things from Velvet, his new bar housed in the Corinthia London. This place takes a theatrical approach to hotel glamour, with interiors designed by David Collins Studio. It's all in the details, from the stunning glassware with playful pops of colour, to the romantic candles that sit atop every surface, to the sophisticated performers who regularly grace the atmosphere with their classy AF music. Amid all this luxury, the gorgeous Art Deco-style bar is the star of the production, flanked by lavish red velvet curtains that make the room feel both intimate and grand. Yup, this one's got date night written all over it.
But whether you come with a special someone or you're flying solo, you're gonna want to spend some quality time getting to know Velvet's drinks. It serves up a strong selection of classics and modern twists - hello, Truffle Sazerac - as well as a few time-honoured recipes dreamed up by Salvatore himself (he is the inventor of the Breakfast Martini, after all). Off the sauce? You're still in for some bangin' drinks here, as the bar takes the same care with its non-alcoholic options. Settle in and get ready for greatness, 'cos The Maestro's running the show.