Swift
Located in the heart of London’s Soho, Swift is a sophisticated dual-level cocktail bar offering two distinct experiences under one roof. Known for its polished service, inventive drinks, and charming ambiance, Swift caters to both casual drinkers and serious cocktail connoisseurs. Whether you stop by for a quick aperitivo upstairs or sink into a late-night session in the moody basement, Swift delivers excellence with flair.
History & Concept
Opened in 2016 by the dynamic duo of Bobby Hiddleston and Mia Johansson (formerly of Milk & Honey), Swift was designed to embody the elegance of European café culture and the spirit of modern cocktail artistry. The concept hinges on versatility — upstairs, it’s all about speed and lightness, while downstairs offers a slower, more intimate vibe. Swift’s name reflects this duality: quick and efficient, yet graceful and smooth.
Design & Atmosphere
Swift is divided into two distinct spaces. The ground floor feels airy and contemporary, with white marble countertops, art deco accents, and natural light streaming in — perfect for pre-theatre drinks or a crisp spritz in the early evening. The basement bar, in contrast, is all deep hues, soft candlelight, velvet seating, and jazz tunes — ideal for dates, quiet conversation, and classic cocktails. The design flows seamlessly, offering comfort and class in every corner.
Swift Menu
The Swift menu adapts to both floors’ personalities. Upstairs, you’ll find refreshing aperitifs and short, lively cocktails. Downstairs, the menu leans toward deeper flavors, premium spirits, and creative reimaginings of vintage classics. Alongside the drinks, there’s a modest but curated selection of small plates to enhance the experience.
Cocktail Menu
- Piccolina. A fan favorite upstairs: Italicus, fino sherry, lemon, and grapefruit soda, served tall and spritzy.
- Irish Coffee. A signature downstairs staple with silky whipped cream and single-origin coffee, known as one of the best in London.
- Sazerac. A deep and aromatic blend of rye, absinthe, and bitters, served with timeless elegance.
- Swift Spritz. Elderflower, vermouth, and prosecco come together in a light, floral aperitif.
- Rosa. Mezcal, rosé vermouth, and a dash of Campari — smoky, bitter, and beautiful.
Food Menu
Swift’s food offering is minimal but purposeful:
- Cheese and charcuterie board. A rotating selection of British cheeses and cured meats.
- Truffle crisps
- Mixed olives
- Chocolate truffles. Perfect to pair with a nightcap.
Price Level
Swift strikes a refined middle ground, offering premium cocktails with exceptional service without pushing into luxury pricing. Most drinks fall between £11–£15, making it accessible yet elevated. Whether it’s a weekday aperitif or a weekend splurge, Swift offers value in quality and atmosphere.
Awards & Recognition
Swift has earned numerous accolades, including consistent placement in The World’s 50 Best Bars and recognition from Time Out London, Class Magazine, and Tales of the Cocktail. Its seamless hospitality and standout cocktail craftsmanship have made it a staple in the global cocktail scene.
Opening Hours & Guest Policy
- Monday to Thursday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Guests must be 18 or over. The bar maintains a smart-casual dress code and encourages walk-ins, especially for the upstairs area.
Reservations
While walk-ins are welcome upstairs, reservations are recommended for the downstairs bar, particularly on weekends. Bookings can be made online through the Swift website, offering options for small groups and special occasions.
Why Visit?
Swift is the rare kind of bar that delivers both style and substance. Its dual-level concept allows you to tailor your experience — light and breezy or deep and indulgent. The service is world-class, the cocktails consistently exceptional, and the atmosphere strikes the perfect chord between casual and classy. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Swift feels like the bar you always hoped to find in Soho.