It’s no secret that London is one of the best cities in the world for a night out. With its diverse array of bars and clubs, there’s something to please everyone’s taste.
But with so many choices, it can be hard to know where to start. So we’ve put together a list of the twelve best bars in King’s Cross, Central London.
Whether you’re a tourist looking for a good time or a local looking to explore, King’s Cross is the place to be, and we’ll show you that the options here are incredible.
Best Bars in King’s Cross, London
The Racketeer
- Type: Cocktail Bar
- Address: 105 King’s Cross Rd, London WC1X 9LR
- Known For: The Racketeer Sour Cocktail
The Racketeer is an elegant venue with blue walls and chic interior design that’s popular for crafting premium house cocktails and offering high-quality charcuterie cuts.
Also, The Racketeer features an intimate patio decorated just like a garden and that will make you fall in love in the summertime. Apart from that, The Racketeer also has an extensive cocktail and house wine list, as well as a variety of beers and spirits.
You can’t leave without tasting the Penicillin in a Storm – made with Chivas Regal 12 Scotch, Ginger Syrup, and Laphroaig & Porter Float. Their house wines from Italy, Spain, and South Africa will surely make you come back for more.
Big Chill
- Type: Bar Club
- Address: 257-259 Pentonville Rd, London N1 9NL
- Known For: The Pimp My Espresso Cocktail
The second kick-starter on our list is the famous Big Chill, a laid-back bar in central London known for its eclectic DJ schedule and great drinks. Bill Chill has a basement and a roof terrace and is located on Pentonville Road, steps away from King’s Cross Station.
Aperol Mojitos are a speciality at Big Chill, made with Aperol aperitif, Havana Club 3yr rum, fresh mint, and lime juice. And other drinks are also worthwhile, like the Pimp My Espresso Cocktail made with Vanilla Vodka, Cazcabel Coffee Tequila, and Salted Caramel Syrup.
The bar club has a relaxed atmosphere during the day, making it a great spot for after-work drinks or pre-night out cocktails. In the evening, the vibe picks up as the DJs take to the decks, playing a mix of music genres that keep the dance floor busy till late, until 3 AM on weekends.
Whether you’re looking for a chilled-out hangout or an energetic night out, Big Chill is the place to be.
Bar + Block Steakhouse King’s Cross
- Type: Bar & Grill
- Address: 26-30 York Wy, London N1 9AA – Located in Premier Inn London King’s Cross hotel
- Known For: Zombie Cocktail – Made With 3 Rums
Bar + Block Steakhouse King’s Cross is a modern bar and grill located in the Premier Inn London King’s Cross hotel. The restaurant is known for its Zombie Cocktail, made with three rums mixed together with pineapple and citrus flavours for a real taste from hell!
The menu also features a variety of grilled meats and seafood, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. Once you’re here, why not have dinner and enjoy their incredible Chargrilled seabass fillet with Greek salad?
The restaurant has a casual atmosphere, making it the perfect bar in King’s Cross to relax with friends or family after a long day of sightseeing.
Bar Pepito
- Type: Spanish-style Bar
- Address: 3 Pentonville Rd, London N1 9DF
- Known For: Rioja Blanco White Wine
Bar Pepito is a Spanish-style bar admired in King’s Cross for its Rioja Blanco white wine and cured meats and cheeses straight out of the Southern province of Andalucia, Spain.
Their food menu has classics that all Spaniards and Brits will love – Ham Croquetas with Grated Manchego, Calamares with Aioli and Lemon, and even Gambas Al Ajillo and Chorizo! Gosh, you’ll have such a great meal.
The bar also offers a variety of Spanish wines, as well as cocktails and beers.
The exposed ceiling beams and rustic Andalusian-style decor create a warm and inviting setting, perfect to come with friends or colleagues after work.
Vinoteca King’s Cross
- Type: Modern British Bar
- Address: 3 King’s Blvd, London N1C 4BU
- Known For: Barcelona Spritz : El Bandarra, Prosecco di Treviso DOCG, Fever-Tree Spring Soda Water
Vinoteca is a small chain of award-winning wine bars and restaurants in the UK, specialising in natural and organic wines. The King’s Cross branch is located in a sleek, industrial, modern building and offers a menu of modern British dishes made with seasonal ingredients.
The Barcelona Spritz is a popular cocktail at Vinoteca, made with El Bandarra Vermouth and Prosecco di Treviso DOCG. There’s more; As the name suggests, Vinoteca specialises in wines, and they offer the best bottles from France, Italy, and beyond.
All of this is complimented by the superb service, so there’s really nothing else you could ask for from one of the best bars in King’s Cross.
GNH Bar and Terrace
- Type: Chic Hotel Bar
- Address: Pancras Rd, London N1C 4TB
- Known For: Here Comes The Sun Cocktail
Next is GNH Bar and Terrace, a chic hotel bar located on Pancras Rd in London. The bar is known for its signature cocktails, including the refreshing Here Comes The Sun, made with Mount Gay Eclipse Rum, Falernum liqueur, Goslings 151, Grapefruit, Ginger, and Lime Juice.
Apart from that, GNH Bar and Terrace serves a global menu and offers professional mixology services. The atmosphere of the bar is sleek and sophisticated, with delicate chandeliers adding an air of elegance.
And in case you’re waiting for a train, then this is the ideal spot to wait, with great drinks and succulent food!
Rotunda Bar and Restaurant
- Type: Modern British Bar and Restaurant
- Address: 90 York Wy, London N1 9AG
- Known For: Gnocchi with Lemon and Thyme Cream and the Fresh Spanish Vina Temprana Viura wine
For wine lovers, there’s no better venue than Rotunda Bar and Restaurant in King’s Cross – get ready for a stunning modern British bar right next to Regent’s Canal.
The restaurant is known for its classic British menu, which uses meat from its own farm, as well as its terrace with cosy deckchairs. Rotunda’s menu includes grilled chicken and Broccoli, Torched Salmon with Braised Fennel, and exquisite pizzas.
The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks, including wine, beer, and cocktails. In addition to its food and drink offerings, Rotunda provides you with a unique beverage, the Solara Orange Wine, made from prolonged skin-contact white grapes.
And if the regular menu isn’t enough for your party, then we’re confident their Bottomless Brunch on weekends will do wonders!
The Gas Station
- Type: Gourmet Bar
- Address: Goods Way, London N1C 4UR
- Known For: The Whole Grilled Lobster with Green Sauce
The Gas Station is the next kid on the block in King’s Cross, and they’re doing absolutely great. Offering some of the best gourmet dishes you’ll find in the area and sublime beer from Belgium and local Pale Ale, you’re in for a treat.
The venue offers a variety of other menu items, including their unique Lobster Roll with Fries and the Bucket of Atlantic Prawns with Cognac Sauce. Why not try both?
What we really love about The Gas Station is the welcoming and friendly service which is a key ingredient for all customers.
Simmons Bar | King’s Cross
- Type: Cocktail Bar
- Address: 32 Caledonian Rd, London N1 9DT
- Known For: Happy Hour from 4 PM to 9 PM from Sunday to Friday
For a retro vibe in town, Simmons Bar in King’s Cross is your best bet – pouring drinks in vintage cups of tea and with passé wallpaper and video games. That is the official call for all ’80s and ’90s fanatics out there!
Naturally, it’s not only about the décor but also about the offerings. You’ll be greeted with a sublime Happy Hour menu featuring classics like the Long Island Ice Tea or the Mojito.
Their signature cocktails are also worth sipping on – We suggest you try the Bees Knees, prepared with Cazcabel Honey Tequila, Lemon, and Sugar Syrup; sounds so appetising.
All in all, there’s no better-hidden gem to unwind after work or have a fun night out with friends.
Keystone Crescent
- Type: Cocktail Bar
- Address: Grey Door, Keystone Crescent, 28 Caledonian Rd, London N1 9DT
- Known For: Cherry Blossom Cocktail
Keystone Crescent is a retro, comfortable, warm cocktail bar in a basement right in the heart of King’s Cross. The bar offers a fireplace for winter nights, lots of bottles for creative drinks, and a welcoming, cool atmosphere.
The staff are passionate about their drinks and are always happy to chat with customers about their favourite tipples. The cocktail menu features classics like the Old Fashioned and negroni, as well as some more unusual creations like the Cherry Blossom Cocktail, made with Roku Gin, Hibiscus Tea, Yuzu Liqueur, and Cherry Syrup Lemon.
What else to say? For catch-ups with old friends or celebrating a happy event, Keystone Crescent is the perfect spot.
The Drop Wine Bar
- Type: Wine Bar
- Address: Unit 22-24 Bagley Walk Arches Coal Drops Yard, London N1C 4DH
- Known For: Manzanilla Pasada en Rama Aperitif
The Drop Wine Bar is a stylish and sophisticated space that offers a modern take on the classic wine bar. The menu features a selection of traditional and contemporary wines, as well as a selection of small plates and sharing dishes. They even offer fresh oysters from Jersey and Carlingford.
We also recommend checking their extensive wine list with bottles from several wineries such as the Le Paradou 2019 from France or the Argentinian Terrior 2018 white wine.
The Manzanilla Pasada en Rama Aperitif is a particular highlight and the perfect way to start an evening at The Drop.
With its art deco-inspired interior, it’s hard to find a better bar in King’s Cross than The Drop Wine Bar.
Spiritland King’s Cross
- Type: Cocktail Bar
- Address: 9 – 10 Stable St, London N1C 4AB
- Known For: The Live Music Events and Great Cocktails
The last on our list of best bars in King’s Cross is Spiritland, made famous for its loud speakers, cool vibes, and music events that draw visitors from all around London.
Besides music and live music events, this hip spot is known for its killer cocktails, lovely dishes, and entrées. And with a convenient location right in the heart of Central London, you’ll never have to go far to enjoy a great night out.
In case you’re not in the mood for a drink, then you should at least stop by for the food. They are ready to prepare all the best foods you’re thinking about, from Smoked Salmon with Aleppo Chilli on Sourdough Toast to Salt Beef and Mustard Sandwich, you’ll devour it with so much satisfaction!
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Conclusion
Kings Cross is a district in London that has undergone a lot of change in recent years. It was once known for its seedy underbelly and questionable nightlife, but it has since been cleaned up and is now one of the most vibrant areas in the city.
From great cocktail bars to gourmet venues, including The Gas Station and Bar Pepito and even a rooftop bar at Big Chill, these were all the best bars in King’s Cross that you should check out.