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By Gemma Brosnan A refreshing dose of Prohibition-inspired nostalgia is redefining the concept of unique, as the monied shun overstated shimmer and glitz and flock to South Kensington’s favourite hideaway. Barts may have exceptionally exclusive neighbours including Boujis, Chelsea Arts Club and The Harrington, but its eclectic approach to imbibery ensures that this tiny bric-a-brac adorned bar effortlessly outwits its neighbours. After a stroll through the fairly bland Cloisters’ reception to an inconspicuous black door, you are greeted by a policy which involves a doorbell and a shutter to ascertain whether you’re special enough to enter. Once inside, expect to be served by quirky waiting staff in kitsch uniforms – think flatcaps, checked shirts and braces - who have perfected the American art of customer service, with bright smiles and slick cocktails flowing across the bar and tables at an impressively professional pace. Heavy on intimacy and detail, archetypically dull background music has been replaced with bebop, jazz and swing, expanding the wealth of visual concepts ranging from vintage Mickey Mouse wallpaper, retro televisions and a dressing up trunk in the corner, regularly brought to life by customers who appear to have arrived at a cosy house party which just happens to brim with personality. The extensively refreshing drinks list includes the delightfully powerful ‘Barts Banter’ (Chambord, peach liqueur, Grand Marnier, fresh strawberries and orange) which avoids becoming sickeningly sweet with a strong kick of peaches and a choice of fine ingredients. The ‘Brockman’s Bugsy’ (Brockman’s gin, Cointreau, lemon juice and a dash of gomme syrup) fuels and heightens the senses, putting Hendricks firmly in the shade and suggestive champagne lovers should experiment with a seductive ‘Dietrich’s Kiss’ (Angostura Bitters, sugar, Campari, and Perrier Jouet champagne which won’t fail to disappoint, along with the great brandies and reasonably priced wine also being highlighted. The brainchild of Kitts’ nightclub legends, Charlie Gilkes and Duncan Stirling, they have turned their back on meaningless convention and come up with a bar oozing originality in a location saturated with the norm. Expect Sloane Avenue’s best kept secret to be out very soon. Barts, Chelsea Cloisters, Sloane Avenue, SW3 3DW http://www.barts-london.com
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