Gordons Wine Bar, London

Possibly one of the most unique establishments I have ever visited would be Gordons Wine Bar, just outside the Embankment tube station in London.
From the second we stepped down the stairs and into the dimly lit basement, this place became not only one of my favourite bars in the UK, but possibly one of the best 'hidden secrets' in London.
If you did not know what to look for you'd most definitely miss the bar from its inconspicuous exterior, and i'd imagine you will probably think it is closed for business when you pass by, but believe me when I say it is definitely worth checking out, you'll probably intend to stay for one drink and end up staying all evening.

Exterior of Gordons Wine Bar

Gordon's is thought to be the oldest wine bar in London - therefore could potentially be the oldest wine bar in the world, and despite being home to Samuel Pepys in the 1600's the bar as we see it today was established in 1890.
As you enter the bar, the first room you come to has wooden walls and is covered in old newspaper clippings which makes it not only one of a kind but also highly interesting if you find yourself bored whilst inside (not likely to happen though!). However the real star of the bar is it's cellar, you have to stoop to find your very private candlelit table, and the atmosphere when full (it doesn't take long to fill up so arrive on opening, especially at the weekend) is absolutely fantastic.

Cellar in Gordons Wine Bar

I would have to say my favourite thing about Gordons is its strong identity; they make a point of only serving wine (so if you're not a fan then this place is most definitely not for you) and the food, although absolutely delicious, is extremely good value. You can choose from hot daily specials such as cottage pies, or marinated fish, and then you get to choose from a wonderful selection of salads to go with it. However my personal favourite is the charcuterie section including, but not limited to, cold meats, pork pies, pates and a wonderful selection of cheese from all corners of the globe.

The cheese boards are outstanding, and for around £11 you can get yourself three big slabs of cheese, any pickles or chutneys which take your fancy and a large french baguette to enjoy it all with. For an additional £5 or so, you can have a large slice of pate as well - we have tried the duck and orange one which is extremely tasty!

Cheese Plate

The atmosphere in Gordons is so unique you really have to experience it for yourself to understand how awesome a place it is. I have been when it is full to the brim at a weekend (and waited for a seat for 45 minutes) and also when it opened on a weekday lunch, and managed to get a seat in the cellar, both times I have loved my time there - but there is something special about Gordons when it's alive with conversation. The wine list is extensive, and I suggest that if you have a favourite type of wine let the extremely knowledgeable bartenders know, they will be able to suggest one I'm sure you will love - I know my boyfriend and I have found our personal favourite on their advice.

Therefore I suggest if you're in London and puzzled for something different to do, arrive early at Gordons, take a seat, crack open a bottle of wine, sample some of their delicious food, and soak up the atmosphere as it starts to fill!