Kwãnt in Mayfair is the second site this bar has called home, and stands as somewhat of an oasis in London. The bar’s design features hand-painted Polynesian tapa art adorning the walls, complemented by sunset-inspired cane ceilings and retro-style sofas. Guests who visit in the late afternoon will find a warm and often sunny bar with huge windows that allow the light in, and then post sunset, venetian blinds close out the evening. Custom-made elements, from the stools upholstered in Dedar fabric to the chess table tops for which guests can request pieces to play, run throughout, while the layout ensures intimacy without sacrificing comfort.

The bar counter is also custom made, and deep thought has gone into its creation. Guests can sit at the front of the open bar counter, but the design also incorporates a special seat behind the bar, which the team offers to solo guests. With the bartenders in mind, there are three independent workstations, each designed to allow the best posture for working. With all ingredients, glassware and bottles at each station, and the back bar just a metre from the front, the bartender’s movements are minimised.

Kwãnt’s menu is divided into signature and vintage cocktails, showcasing every style of drink from Martinis to those that are shaken, citrus-heavy or wine-dominant. Non-alcoholic options are also available, showcasing the same attention to detail and creativity as their alcoholic counterparts. The team plays a key part in the development of drinks, alongside their fruit and vegetable supplier Natoora, from whom Kwãnt receives regular updates on seasonal ingredients. The bar also creates its own distillates for the cocktail list, gaining a reputation for out-there flavours like langoustine or marmite.

The bar’s approach to garnishes and presentation is minimalist, allowing the flavours to shine without distraction. Microherbs, grown in-house using an Evogro system, add a touch of freshness and aroma to select cocktails, while spheres are used to elevate highballs and drinks served on the rocks. Techniques such as carbonation, clarification, distillation and fermentation are employed to build complexity in the drinks.

Kwãnt also offers a curated spirit selection, with a focus on both small producers and well-known brands. Vintage spirits dating back to 1903 add a touch of nostalgia to the menu, offering guests the opportunity to sample rare offerings.

The hospitality at Kwãnt Mayfair is characterised by attention to detail and a commitment to guest satisfaction. There is no hierarchy within the team, with everyone holding the same title. Each new member of staff works on rotation through all the roles to get an in-depth overview of how the bar operates, with a genuine focus on coaching talent and recognising achievements across the whole team.

Staff expertise is evident in their extensive knowledge of the cocktail menu, whether guiding guests through the vintage spirits collection or recommending a signature creation.