Oldest Wine Bar in London

Today, let's talk about two of my favourite things: Wine and Cheese!

A very good friend of mine took me some weeks ago to Gordon's Wine Bar, you will find it real close to the Embankment tub station.

From the outside it looks like a random pub, quite dark and let's be honest not really attractive. Actually if you pass by, you won't even notice it. Too bad because Gordon's is the oldest wine bar in London, there since 1890!

After passing the door you will have to struggle with the narrow stairs and people coming from downstairs. But once inside you'll find yourself in a cosy warm cave! It kind of gives a pirate tavern feeling with barrels, candles, small tables in dark and small cave holes. You will even find a cell that you can book for bigger events, such as birthday parties etc.! For my 5.9 feet it was quite difficult to get in the sitting area, I could stand up only in the middle of the room as the roof is shaped as an ark.

As for the atmosphere, walls are covered with old wine bottles, pages from newspapers, pictures of the Royal Family... Everything looks so British!

It also offers a very large outdoor area with heaters. So if you are a smoker this would suit you better. But it kind of spoil the adventure as you won't be in the cellar!

The place gets very busy, in an after work spirit. You may have to wait a bit to find an empty table. The best thing to do is to get there early!

Obviously the wine list is spectacular and it is difficult to choose a wine as the choice is way too extensive.

The best part (after the wine, of course) is the buffet! Gordon's only offers appetizers and cheese. You can choose which cheeses you'll like to eat and make your very own cheese platter. Yummy! Portions are very large so come with appetite! Of course you could have salads and meat platters too. Prices are very very very fair. We all were completely surprised about it!

The French part in me just love this place. Good cheese and good wine in a charming traditional place with lot of history! What else?

47 Villiers Street, London WC2N 6NE

020 7930 1408

Open every day: 11am to 11pm        Sunday 12 noon to 10.00pm