Finding its home inside The Langham hotel on London’s Regent Street, Artesian takes its name from the 365-foot-deep well beneath the building, which once supplied the hotel’s fresh water. Its striking interiors, designed by David Collins Studio, draw on the idea of a Victorian Cabinet of Curiosities — collections gathered through travel, discovery and exploration. Tiered brass chandeliers, white panelled walls inlaid with mirrored glass and rich purple seating combine with Southeast Asian influences, while a recurring butterfly motif, inspired by the artwork La Chasse aux Papillons, is worked into custom lacquer detailing across the walls and tables. Its high ceilings and bay windows mean the ornate decor feels considered rather than busy however, and as the daylight fades, guests will find a warmth to the space.

While staying true to luxury hotel service, Artesian is interestingly one of the few bars of its calibre that allow for standing guests, meaning the bar can have a busy atmosphere, depending on when it’s visited. This is further enhanced by the playful cocktail serves the bar is well known for. Over the years (it opened in 2007) guests have drunk from a myriad of custom vessels, golden pineapples and fish bowls included, though those preferring a more pared-back style will still find drinks that are highly conceptual and inventive. The team use their menus as a place to explore ingredients, the environment, personal connections, and even what they believe the future of cocktails might hold.

Behind the scenes, the Artesian Laboratory gives the team a dedicated space to develop and refine their drinks. Bartenders who specialise in lab development apply techniques such as sous-vide cooking, vacuum infusion and fat-washing to create bespoke syrups, brines and infusions, each one tested and standardised before it reaches service.

Away from drinks, the Artesian team take real care of their own — the hotel’s Wellbeing Policy sets out a strategic plan covering mental, physical and financial support, and the team includes qualified Mental Health First Aiders and an LGBTQIA+ champion, with all staff expected to complete “how to be an ally” training. Employee resource groups, including Cultural Kaleidoscope and Women in Menopause, and a monthly Speak Up Committee give colleagues further avenues to be heard, while a dedicated staff area, The Yard, offers meals, lockers, showers and discounted massage and podiatry treatments.

Guests can expect genuinely outstanding service, with real engagement valued by regulars and first-time visitors alike. From the complimentary welcome drink and bar snacks to a carefully considered playlist, everything at Artesian is designed to welcome guests in.