The Corinthia Hotel is a gargantuan building yet somehow discreet. The huge ivory stones that have built it denote a Samson like strength and an immortal presence bang in the heart of Whitehall. It feels as though it houses a thousand secrets and a myriad of tales. Silently standing guard to its many guests.I walked through the cavernous restaurant to one of four bars. The Bassoon Bar.
Just like the instrument delivers a warm, dark and moody sound so did The Bassoon Bar deliver a warm, dark and relaxing atmosphere.
The walls were dressed with vintage paintings depicting jazz characters from a time gone by which made me feel as though I was in a happening joint during the cotton club era.
I met my fellow galpals who were sitting with iPads from which we selected our beverages. Very 2015!
I ordered a traditional champagne cocktail and balked at the price, £17.50 and picked at the nibbles that were placed on the table,
Needing proper fare I ordered a mini burger and fries which was just enough and delicious.
After gossiping and generally catching up we were treated to the dusky tones of a vocalist accompanied by a pianist.
She offered to sing any song requested and in a homely fashion beautifully serenaded the not too large crowd.
The friendly waiter filled our glasses with water for the final time before we bid The Basson Bar adieu.
All in all I really enjoyed the experience and would definitely return though next time order another cheaper cocktail :-)
Stargazer 7/10
Walking along a quiet Whitehall nothing prepared me for the spacious interior of
the Corinthia, with its dramatic chandeliers and beautiful centrepieces in the lobby.
The staff were polite, warm and smartly dressed as they led us inside the Bassoon Bar.
What was noticeable was the balance of intimacy and space with a 1920's-30's ambience which was reflected in their framed paintings and cocktails. As we seated ourselves we
were in for a surprise......paperless cocktail menu! They were displayed on a tablet!
I had fun tapping away at the screen and eventually chose an expensive and yet pretty
Bellini (my first) with added flower.
As the evening went on our conversation was interrupted by a live jazz duo.
Their music was reminiscent of that song, the girl from Ipanema, very mellow and not
intrusive.
I would recommend the Bassoon Bar as an end of day treat and would gladly go again.
Monique 7/10.
Bassoon Bar at the Corinthia Hotel is filled with both sophistication and ardour. The grandiose building didn't disappointment at first glance and neither did it shy away from its elegant persona on the inside. A piano which appeared imposing was exactly what the space needed. The music was perfect and didn't interfere with the ambience. My non alcoholic cocktail was the perfect tipple and the waiters were also in perfect form. A great place to visit if you are craving an air of sophistication.
Peony Blue 8/10
