Larry’s Bar is the acclaimed speakeasy nestled within the National Portrait Gallery. The venue marked its 1st anniversary with a glamorous red carpet event last week, coinciding with the launch of Cocktails at Larry’s, a visually captivating and thoughtfully curated publication that blends the artistry of cocktails with the iconic figures immortalised in the Gallery’s illustrious portrait collection. This book not only features drink recipes but also offers an intriguing look into the narratives behind the portraits, enriching the experience of both cocktail enthusiasts and art lovers alike. With unlimited archival access granted in a world’s first, readers are invited to delve deeper into the narratives of celebrated figures from history while sipping on masterfully crafted cocktails that capture the essence of each portrayed personality…
Larry’s
Occupying the newly restored vaults of the National Portrait Gallery, Larry’s features brunch all day, a light lunch menu and cream teas. Surrounded by works from the Collection, this venue is homage to London’s melting pot of creativity and culture. In the evenings, there is a twist on classic cocktails, inspired and named by famous sitters from the collection, using some of London’s best small spirit producers, including Highclere Castle gin and Gattertop vodka, as well as bitters, shrubs and infusions made in house. These are accompanied by house specialities and small plates with a focus on local sourcing, including Larry’s Club sandwiches, charcuterie and cheese boards and house-made Scotch eggs.
Cockatils at Larry’s Book
“This is not a bible of cocktails or a book of history.” writes the author Tom Onions. “It seeks to capture the moment at which these drinks were enjoyed – from the original White Lady at Circo’s to the Espresso Martini at Fred’s in the naughty noughties – and the amazing people who have brought the West End to Life.“
Cocktails at Larry’s features bespoke cocktails that pay homage to the National Portrait Gallery’s iconic sitters, from music legends to trailblazers in film, theatre, and fashion. The book brings the stories behind the portraits to life, allowing readers to experience not only the artistry on display but also the spirit of the individuals who defined entire eras. It merges mixology with history, honouring the lives and legacies of West End celebrities, artists, and cultural icons through carefully crafted drinks – think the likes of Derek Jarman, Jimi Hendrix and David Bowie.
Featuring 15 cocktails inspired by classics including…
Larry’s: Old Fashioned
Cocktails at Larry’s begins its journey with its namesake Laurence Olivier, or ‘Larry,’ as he was affectionately known to his peers, regarded as one of the greatest British actors of the 20th century. His signature cocktail tells the story of his romance with Vivien Leigh and their shared love of the glamorous cocktail parties they famously enjoyed… As you flick through the book, just imagine them sipping many an Old Fashioned.
Jura 10 Scotch whisky
GlenDronach 12 Scotch whisky
Homemade cereal syrup
Cherry bitters, to spray
Cherry, to garnish
Rich and sweet, with notes of cherry
Songs of Soho: Rose Manhattan
Songs of Soho is inspired by Shirley Bassey’s first live album, Songs of Pigalle which was recorded in 1965 on the opening night of an eight-week residency at the Pigalle nightclub, Piccadilly.
Fettercairn Scotch whisky
Cadello 88
Dry vermouth
Mirabeau Rosé
Akashi-Tai Shiraume umeshu
Dr. Hostetter’s bitter
Served over a large, roughly hewn ice cube Dry ice and maraschino cherry, to garnish
Subtle, refined and aromatic
Diamonds on Soho: Champagne Pornstar Martini
Champagne PIAFF Brut
Vodka
Passionfruit liqueur
Clarified citrus
Homemade passionfruit and mango sorbet
Secret XXX sauce
Refreshing, palate-cleansing and juicy
The Maccarita: Margarita
Among the many cocktail highlights is the Maccarita, a bold reimagining of the classic Margarita, inspired by Sir Paul McCartney, whose portraits were exhibited at the National Portrait Gallery.
Patron Silver tequila
Cointreau
Briottet Curaçao triple sec
Fresh clementine juice
Salt on lime juice on the rim, to garnish
Vibrant, refreshing and sunny
Other standout cocktails include the “Gin Fizz,” an ode to pioneering photographer Yevonde, known for her innovative use of colour, and the “White Lady,” inspired by Audrey Hepburn, the timeless film star who began her career performing in London’s West End.
A Toast to Iconic Figures
“These cocktails are not just drinks – they’re an invitation to explore the lives of some of the most iconic figures in British history,” said Tom Onions, co-founder of The Daisy Green Collection, which operates Larry’s Bar and wrote the book in collaboration with the National Portrait Gallery. Cocktails at Larry’s captures the essence of these personalities and the moments they inhabited, weaving together the worlds of art, culture, and cocktails in a way that feels truly timeless.
The book also celebrates figures like Cecil Beaton, whose connection to London’s famous ‘Bright Young Things’ scene inspired cocktails reminiscent of the glamour of 1920s society. Legendary artist Francis Bacon, a regular at the infamous Colony Room, inspired an entire trilogy of cocktails including the “Colony Room Green” and “Francis Bacon Orange,” reflecting the bold colours of his art and the intensity of his life.
Celebrating London’s Creative Spirit
Cocktails at Larry’s also delves into London’s nightlife and iconic venues, from the glamorous parties at Ciro’s nightclub to the bohemian gatherings at the Colony Room. The publication is a tribute to the creative spirit of London’s West End, a district that has long been the epicentre of artistic innovation and cultural transformation… to which we say, cheers!
Cocktails at Larry’s (Hardcover) RRP £14.95, available here.
Larry’s Opening times:
Sunday to Monday 10.30 – 17.30
Tuesday to Thursday 10.30 – 23.00
Friday and Saturday 10.30 – midnight
Booking Recommended
📍 Larry’s, National Portrait Gallery, St. Martin’s Pl, London WC2H 0HE
Written by Kai Lutterodt @the.soho.girl
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