London may be better known for pints than Pinot, but trust us: this city can hold its own when it comes to wine. With its vibrant wine bars, London has turned wine tasting into an art form (and sometimes a theater act). London’s best wine bars are redefining the wine scene, bringing the humble grape to cool crowds of discerning drinkers.
In these spots, you’ll find cozy, bistro-style settings with top-notch food, chic bars perfect for date night, and hip Hackney hangouts where wine is the drink du jour. From natural wines to unique bottles sourced from far-flung vineyards, these bars have it all. Here’s a guide to the best wine bars in London, where the vino flows as freely as the charming British banter.
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Half Cut Market
A perfect wine bar ticks a few key boxes: an impressive selection of wines, including the familiar classics and the fun, photogenic bottles that make you reach for your camera. It’s got to have the right atmosphere, dim enough to feel cozy but lively enough that you can laugh loudly without getting side-eye.
And of course, the music should be just right—loud enough to set the vibe but not so loud you’re forced to shout. Snacks should arrive at random intervals, tapas-style, for a touch of that relaxed Spanish feel. Half Cut Market checks every one of these boxes.
It’s the go-to spot for a young, vibrant crowd, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff, great music, and a wine selection whimsically labeled with colorful fridge magnets. Here, you’ll find “zippy whites,” “weird whites,” and even an entire section for orange wines. Grab an outdoor table, order a chilled red, and enjoy the perfect ending to the night.
Bar Bruno
As you edge closer to the entrance, the warm glow of Bar Bruno’s fairy lights catches your eye, cutting through the evening’s chill. The hum of lively conversations hints at the reputation of this beloved local gem, promising an evening filled with remarkable wines and flavorful bites. Inside, the vibe is both intimate and inviting, with white brick walls, shelves lined with bottles, and candle-lit tables creating a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Bruno boasts a comprehensive wine list, plus a daily rotating selection by the glass. We recommend the rich, creamy crémant from Portugal’s Douro Valley if you’ve never had it. A glass of aromatic white from Kleines Gut in Germany is another great starter. It’s accented by a Walnut Pâte with Morita chili and cascara jelly.
For the main course, you can order the “Cazon” Strudel—a clever, European twist on an empanada and possibly the best you’ll ever have. You can close the evening with a bold red from Phelan Farm in California. This is typically paired with a decadent Chocolate Fondant Cake drizzled with smoky mezcal caramel.
Le Beaujolais
Since 1972, Le Beaujolais has kept things delightfully old school. The chic wine bar is exclusively known for its carefully curated selection of French wines and cheeses. The downstairs restaurant, steeped in history, is members-only, adding an air of exclusivity.
However, the ground-floor bar welcomes everyone, offering a cozy, semi-hidden spot to savor a well-priced Côtes du Rhône from a fully French wine list. With decor that channels a strong 1980s vibe, it’s a nostalgic retreat for those seeking an authentic taste of France in London.
Cellar Next Door
Owned and run by the masterminds behind Peckham Cellars, this cozy wine bar and bottle shop sits at the corner of Camberwell Church Street and Vicarage Grove. At the center of this intimate space is a communal table, perfect for gathering with friends over candlelight and conversation. The vibe is warm and welcoming—there’s no hint of pretension here. The wine catalogue is quite astounding and you’ll be spoilt for choice.
When faced with this dilemma, we recommend you talk it out with their knowledgeable staff to find the right bottle. Alternatively, you can just choose a bottle from their well-curated selection that lines the walls. And for a little extra indulgence, their cheese and charcuterie boards are beautifully arranged and make the perfect accompaniment.
107 Wine Shop & Bar
Once known as P. Franco, this beloved Clapton wine shop and bar earned a cult following thanks to its cozy atmosphere, unique wine selection, and celebrity guest chefs. It closed its doors mysteriously in March 2023, leaving a void in the neighborhood’s culinary scene.
Now reborn as 107 Wine Shop & Bar, it’s better than ever, staying true to its roots while adding fresh twists. With its communal tables and a curated selection of the best natural wines, 107 continues the legacy. It has hosted acclaimed chefs like Sertaç Dirik of Mangal II fame for memorable culinary pop-ups. It’s still a neighborhood favorite, where wine lovers and foodies unite.
Trullo
Trullo in Islington has been a neighborhood favorite since 2010, and it’s easy to see why. The Italian restaurant exudes warmth, both in its inviting interior and its vibrant Italian dishes, making it a local gem. Recently, Trullo expanded with a charming wine bar next door.
It’s the perfect spot for a pre- or post-dinner drink, or even an evening out on its own. The chalkboard wine list is full of enticing options, from sharp skin contacts to buttery whites by the glass, all at reasonable prices—just £6 for a glass of something this good. Pair your wine with antipasti like Maldon oysters, burrata, or Devon crab.
Bar Levan
Initially a revered coffee shop, Bar Levan is a fresh wine concept that has taken Peckham by storm. This new venture embraces a more Parisian-inspired vibe, with deep red walls, high stools, and an intimate ambiance. The wine list is a rotating treasure trove of by-the-glass selections, ranging from English double Pinots to Eastern European chilled reds, offering something for every palate.
For just £6, the house white, a delightfully sweet and approachable Chardonnay, is an absolute steal. To accompany your drink, the menu features classic French-style small plates, including buttery baguette, rich terrine, and silky anchovies. These are perfect for nibbling while soaking in the sophisticated, yet laid-back atmosphere.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to impress a date, catch up with friends, or just sip your way through London’s best, these wine bars have you covered. So grab a glass, raise it high, and toast to London’s vibrant wine scene—it’s got everything you need for an evening of sipping, swirling, and savoring, minus the snobbery.
