From morning espresso to espresso martini, Franco’s London has a new all day bar fit for entertaining at every hour of the day and night.

Franco’s is one of London’s oldest and most celebrated restaurants on Jermyn Street in the heart of the capital first opening their charming Italian trattoria in 1945 amongst the barbers, wine shops and bespoke clothes shops.

80 years later, this wonderful eatery has a new addition – a beautiful bar area re-designed by Conrad Alexander Design which can be enjoyed all day and all night.

The cocktails are pretty incredible and we start with a truffle vodka martini which is every bit as delicious as it sounds. A heady hit of earthy goodness and an equally good hit of alcohol for a sublime sip. You can also go cucumber or thyme if you prefer something more refreshing.

The rhubarb crumble is another absolute delight, this one made with Brockman’s Gin, rhubarb liqueur, lemon juice, sugar syrup, vanilla and topped with tasty crushed biscuit. It’s definitely reminiscent of the dessert and a must if you like sweet cocktails.

We also try the hot honey old fashioned – a twist on the classic with a little bit of chilli, whiskey barrel aged bitters and Woodford Reserve – a handcrafted small batch bourbon from Kentucky.

If wine is more your thing, there’s actually a wine programme – carefully curated by Head Sommelier Paolo Pellegrino. Whether you’re after just a glass of the good stuff, something unique, full bodied, or light and fruity, there’s an abundance to choose from. There are even three exclusive cuvees which have been created in partnership with Le Pianure – a Friulino white and a Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon red.

And as a glass of wine or a delicious cocktail gets the taste buds going, fear not, as Head Chef Stefano Turconi’s bar menu is something quite special. A luxurious lobster roll is lusciously creamy with pickled fennel and basil mayo hiding meaty chunks of seafood. Meanwhile, the parmesan chunks and fresh prosciutto crudo sliced across from the high bar are just made for elegant glasses of champagne or a silky red.

Of course, aperitivo hour is honoured in Italy and too at Franco’s. Designed to sharpen the appetite, we’d recommend trying the tarts and flowers with vodka and amaretto, or the apple sour spritz with a tart combination of apple whiskey, lemon and Prosecco.

Conrad Alexander Design have refined the bar area so it’s chic and classic but not showy, although the artwork and antique mirror panels really elevate the space and make it seem rather special.

Franco’s Bar is now open and is the perfect spot in which to while away the hours, enjoy a business lunch, a few drinks with friends or a solo moment of enjoyment. Whatever you’re reason for coming, you’re guaranteed to stay longer than you should! And you’d be most welcome to!

The post From Morning Espresso to Espresso Martini – Franco’s London Has a New Bar appeared first on Luxe Bible Digital Lifestyle Magazine.

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