Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese

Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese is an opulent cocktail haven located inside the prestigious Corinthia London. This refined bar offers a unique blend of glamour, legacy, and innovation in the heart of the British capital. Guided by the legendary bartender Salvatore Calabrese, also known as “The Maestro,” Velvet elevates the art of cocktail-making through an exceptional blend of craftsmanship, storytelling, and luxurious hospitality. It’s a destination that attracts both discerning locals and international connoisseurs in search of excellence in every glass.

History & Concept

Velvet was born from the collaboration between Corinthia London and Salvatore Calabrese, one of the world’s most celebrated mixologists. The bar’s concept is rooted in Calabrese’s lifelong pursuit of perfecting the cocktail experience—drawing on over four decades of expertise and a passion for blending tradition with invention. Velvet isn’t just a name; it symbolizes richness, smoothness, and timeless appeal. The bar serves as a tribute to classic cocktail culture while embracing bold, modern expressions with elegance and flair.

Design & Atmosphere

Step into Velvet and you’re transported to a world of seductive sophistication. The décor features plush red velvet drapes, dark wood finishes, brass accents, and ambient lighting that evokes the glamour of 1920s speakeasies and private members’ clubs. The bar’s layout encourages intimate conversations, with cozy seating nooks, a gleaming central bar, and smooth jazz playing softly in the background. It’s a space designed for indulgence—refined yet inviting, theatrical yet tasteful.

Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese Menu

The Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese menu is a curated masterpiece of cocktails and gourmet bites. Each drink is meticulously constructed to reflect both Salvatore’s signature style and the timeless elegance of the Corinthia. The menu tells a story of heritage and innovation, combining premium spirits, house infusions, and artisanal ingredients. The food offerings complement the drinks with a focus on luxury ingredients, European culinary techniques, and seasonal accents.

Cocktail Menu

Velvet’s cocktail program reflects Salvatore Calabrese’s iconic repertoire alongside bold new creations:

• Breakfast Martini. A Calabrese original featuring gin, Cointreau, lemon juice, and a spoonful of Seville orange marmalade for a bright, zesty twist.
• Spicy Fifty. A modern favorite combining vodka, elderflower, honey syrup, fresh lime juice, and a hint of chili.
• Velvet Manhattan. A luxurious twist with bourbon, vermouth, chocolate bitters, and a cherry smoked finish.
• Vintage Negroni. Made with aged gin and Campari from rare collections, this cocktail offers a glimpse into cocktail history.
• Maestro Martini. A signature serve that layers vermouths and gin with precise temperature control and a dramatic presentation.

Food Menu

The food menu is designed to elevate the drinking experience with refined small plates and elegant comfort dishes:

• Lobster Brioche Rolls. Butter-poached lobster served in toasted brioche with saffron aioli.
• Foie Gras Terrine. Served with port jelly and toasted brioche, balancing rich textures with delicate sweetness.
• Truffle Parmesan Fries. Crispy and decadent, topped with aged Parmigiano and a hint of truffle oil.
• Oysters Rockefeller. Baked oysters with herb butter, spinach, and crispy breadcrumbs.
• Artisanal Cheese Selection. A rotating selection of British and European cheeses, paired with crackers and quince paste.

Price Level

Velvet is a high-end bar catering to an elite clientele. Prices reflect the quality of the ingredients, the legendary expertise of Salvatore Calabrese, and the five-star setting. Expect cocktails to start at £22 and reach £30 or more for rare or vintage selections. Food items range from £18 to £45, offering both value and indulgence for luxury seekers.

Awards & Recognition

Though relatively new in its current incarnation, Velvet has already made waves in the industry:

• Frequently spotlighted in Time Out London and GQ for its high-concept mixology and luxurious ambiance.
• Praised by World’s 50 Best Bars alumni and cocktail critics for Salvatore Calabrese’s impeccable leadership.
• Recognized in hospitality publications for redefining the hotel bar experience in London.

Opening Hours & Guest Policy

Opening Hours:

• Tuesday–Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Sunday–Monday: Closed

Velvet welcomes hotel guests and external visitors aged 18 and over. The dress code is smart elegant—jackets encouraged for men in the evening. Due to the bar’s intimate and exclusive nature, walk-ins are limited, and groups are encouraged to make reservations.

Reservations

Reservations can be made via the Corinthia London website or by contacting the hotel’s concierge. Velvet is a popular spot for special occasions, romantic dates, and post-dinner cocktails, so booking ahead is strongly recommended. Private bookings and tasting experiences are also available by request.

Why Visit?

Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese offers a rare combination of classic glamour, mixology artistry, and world-class service. Whether you’re sipping a vintage Negroni crafted by a living legend or enjoying foie gras in a velvet-draped alcove, every moment here feels like part of a cinematic experience. Velvet isn’t just a bar—it’s a tribute to the timeless elegance of cocktail culture, brought to life by one of its greatest icons.