Salvatore Calabrese opens new bar Velvet at Corinthia London

Corinthia London inaugurates the month of November with the glamorous opening of Velvet with cocktail maestro Salvatore Calabrese. The 283-room hotel, already hosting a variety of gastronomic outlets (including Kerridge’s Bar and Grill and the Northall Restaurant), now has an exquisite place where guests can enjoy the theatre of cocktail making.

Distanced from the previous venue’s funky vibes to establish a smooth jazz mood, the atmosphere inside Velvet exudes elegance. Under the Italian mixologist and experienced bar manager Christian Maspes, the new opening brings back the charming craft and performance of drinks preparation.

Acclaimed drinks expert and one of the world’s leading bartenders Calabrese explains the concept: “We want to celebrate the magic and theatre of hospitality with a cocktail list of sophisticated classics that have stood the test of time, alongside modern drinks which are now well-established in the 2020s. Velvet will be a seductive, intimate bar that we know will become one of the most desirable destinations in London.”

And, indeed, the menu is an intriguing dive into the roaring 20s, featuring classics such as Boulevardier with Cinzano 1757 Rosso and Morning Glory Fizz, then jumping to more contemporary drinks with a twist, like the silky Señorita with Casamigos Reposado and Beesou and Truffle Sazerac prepared with Truffled Rémy Martin Vsop. Alongside non-alcoholic options and Golden Era Vintage elixirs, the bar showcases two other exciting sections: Velvet Martinis and Salvatore’s Signatures. In the latter, we find a selection of some of the maestro’s much-loved creations, such as the Breakfast Martini and the Spicy Fifty.

Next to the counter and booths, where the “the music of the shake” rings pleasingly in the ears and eyes, there’s a space for live music, providing relaxing background sound in a swinging setting framed all around by deep velvet curtains. The venue’s interiors have been reimagined by the prestigious designers at David Collins Studio: upholstered furniture in shades of red and royal blue, fluid lighting, a central marble fireplace, and modern deco contribute to paying homage to the vitality of the beginning of the 20^th century. Significant in the scene are the commissioned artworks by Robson Stannard, marked by a vibrant abstract aesthetic.

Velvet has opened its doors on 1^st of November 2022 and welcomes guests into a classy and lively atmosphere for a delightful bar experience signed by – the clue is in the name – the Maestro.

The food desk
Photos: Filippo L’Astorina

To book a table at Velvet at Corinthia London, Whitehall Place London SW1A 2BD, visit their website here.