Bored of visiting the same places in London? In the name of research, we’ve been diligently curating a useful guide with all the ‘Quirky London Hangouts’ we think you need to know about. From sporting concept bars to matcha cafes and eclectic cocktails bars, even indoor mini-golf venues, we’ve got your London diary sorted.
1. Sixes Social Cricket Club
Where? Great Portland Street, W1W 5QB
We’re kicking things of with one of the most quirky London hangouts, Sixes Social Cricket. The latest bar concept to hit the capital. A mix of virtual cricket & dining that is popping up at venues across London and Manchester. Their Portland Street location is super-easy to access and makes a great night our whether you are looking to dine, drink or play. Simply book your nets online, download the app, arrive and enjoy. See our full review here.
2. Jenki Matcha Bar, Spitalfields
Where? 43 Brushfield Street, E1 6AA
Jenki, named after the Japanese word Genki meaning original spirit, similar to prana or qi, is London’s first and only matcha cafe. Located in the vibrant Spitalfields Market, this Japanese inspired, minimalist cafe instantly provides zen vibes – with a subtle yet beautiful homage to matcha’s Japanese heritage. Not only will you find traditional Japanese matcha, you can also indulge in plant-based matcha soft serve (perhaps my favourite), plant-based (and gluten-free options) bakery items (may I highly recommend the banana bread), refreshing sodas, matcha infused cocktails and sake, as well as traditional coffees and fun letters, such as lavender & CBD and rose & collagen. All the ceramics you find in the cafe are handmade by local, Japanese artists, again a subtle reverence to matcha’s origins. You may walk in flustered and exhausted but you will absolutely leave at peace yet energised.
3. Duchess of Dalston Cocktail Bar
Where? Kingsland Rd, E8 4AA
The team behind the world-renowned Callooh Callay have launched a truly delightful new location called The Duchess of Dalston on Kingsland Road in, you guessed it, Dalston. This beautiful little neighbourhood spot serves up an ever-changing and evolving cocktail menu alongside clever (and delicious) small plates. Honestly, we’re in love- incredible cocktails and food, serious sustainability credentials, and some of the most passionate and knowledgeable staff you could ask for. From relaxed brunches to full-on parties, there’s no better place to be. Head down this October for London Cocktail Month to experience their collaboration with EcoSpirits, the world’s first low-carbon, low-waste spirits distribution technology.
Credit: Rebecca Hope Photography
4. Haugen Apres Ski Bar, Stratford
Where? Endeavour Square, E201JN
Sitting in the heart of shiny Stratford you will find the brand-spanking-new, alpine-inspired bar and restaurant, Haugen. With a truly imposing, bold architectural design influenced by Bauhaus, this vibrant treasure is unmissable and has passers-by staring in intrigue and delight. With an immaculately designed interior that emulates slick ski-lodge vibes, Haugen does not disappoint when you step inside. Effortlessly recreating an apres-ski location of dreams, guests are greeted with a generously stocked bar, delicious menu, comfortable seating and the perfect space to let your hair down and dance the night away.
5. Electric Shuffle: The Ultimate Team Games Bar
Electric Shuffle is home to a reimagined version of a classic – shuffleboard. With a rich history spanning over hundreds of years, shuffleboard is as much a game of skill as it is luck – already making it perfect for a memorable night out. Located in the vibrant focal point of London Bridge on Bermondsey Street, the new venue offers an experience that is both a local hangout and must-see spot for curious visitors in equal measure. From community cocktails, to hosting the best talent south of the river – Electric Shuffle has also been celebrating the community in all its varied glory.
6. Puttshack – Bank, Lakeside, Watford & White City
Puttshack was born when Adam Breeden (All Star Lanes, AceBounce, Flight Club) and brothers Steven and Dave Jolliffe (Topgolf) had a stroke of inspiration – to take the mini golf experience to a whole other level. By joining forces, they took the best parts of mini golf – the fun, the accessibility, the trash-talking – and powered a new game with seamless, modern technology.
