Find cosy spots for wine tasting, small plates, late drinks
Discover the best wine bars in London with a practical London wine guide to cosy, no fuss spots across Shoreditch, the City and Spitalfields. Find self serve tasting rooms where you can sample by the glass, intimate bottle shops with adventurous lists, and wine and cheese bars for relaxed evenings. Head out for rooftop pours, seasonal small plates, or low key dates that focus on flavour not fuss. Each pick notes atmosphere, price range and who it suits, so you can choose a late night out or a quick wine tasting London stop. Start your evening with confidence, relax into city nightlife and know where to go for top rated wine bars without guessing.
Vagabond Wines Shoreditch
Image / Hire Space
Casual wine tasting with a sunny roof terrace and helpful staff
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What to expect
Self-service wine stations where you can try short or longer pours. A curated selection that includes English wines and small-batch labels, plus a few draft beers. Seating ranges from cosy indoor corners to an upper-level terrace. Staff are knowledgeable and ready to recommend flights or individual bottles if you prefer guidance.
Plan your visit
Decide whether you want to explore many wines or stick to a tasting flight. If you want staff recommendations, ask on arrival, they will suggest options based on your tastes. Bring a card for contactless payment. If you have a dog, mention it when you arrive so staff can point you to dog-friendly seating. Save room for small plates to pair with tastings.
Cabotte
Image / French Restaurant near to Bank
French finesse in the Square Mile, a warm bistro with standout wines and attentive service.
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What to expect
Find a calm, well-run bistro where technique meets seasonality. Dishes are crafted for balance and flavour, presented with tidy, confident plating. A knowledgeable sommelier recommends pairings from an expansive list, while front-of-house staff keep service smooth and unobtrusive. The main dining room hums with City energy, and private rooms provide discretion for meetings or group celebrations. Booking ahead is useful for peak times and private dining.
Plan your visit
Reserve in advance to secure a table or book the private room for business meals. Ask the sommelier for pairing suggestions and lean into the seasonal menu. Dress smart-casual, arrive with an appetite for exploration, and plan a relaxed pace to enjoy food and wine.
New Street Wine
Image / VenueScanner
Tucked away in the City, a cosy spot with an adventurous wine selection.
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What to expect
A compact, warmly lit space that rewards bottle hunters and casual sippers alike. Shelves are thoughtfully organised, making it easy to browse by style, and the bar area suits quiet conversation. Service is friendly, though timing can be inconsistent. Ideal for dates, after-work drinks or a relaxed solo glass, the venue trades flash for character, so come for the wines and the mood.
Plan your visit
Find the shop a short walk from the main transport hubs, handy for an after-work stop or a pre-evening drink. Small groups and couples fit well at the bar or communal tables, larger parties should reserve. Bring curiosity rather than strict expectations, and ask staff for a quick recommendation.
Vagabond Shoreditch
Image / Web
Pour, taste, enjoy: a self-serve wine escape in Shoreditch.
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What to expect
Expect a playful, hands-on wine experience where guests choose and serve their own pours from a curated selection. Friendly staff offer guidance and tasters, helping to navigate the range. The interior feels cosy yet lively, with tall windows that frame colourful street art and city views. Seating ranges from intimate tables to bar spots, making it ideal for couples and small groups. A concise food menu is available to complement wine choices, enhancing a relaxed, sociable visit.
Plan your visit
Turn a regular evening into something memorable by arriving ready to taste. Try small pours to explore different styles, grab a seat by the tall windows for people-watching, and ask staff for recommendations if unsure. Best for couples and small groups who enjoy a relaxed, social setting with a curated wine selection and complementary food options.
Funky Cellar
Image / funkycellar.co.uk
Quirky cellar in Spitalfields, ideal for cheese lovers and curious sippers.
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What to expect
Expect a warm, slightly retro space where a deli-style shop blends into a small bistro. Aromas of cheese and stacked bottles set the tone, while friendly, knowledgeable staff offer tasting pours and pairing suggestions. Seating is intimate, with a quieter spot at the back for watching market life, and a lively atmosphere at peak times. The setting suits casual tastings, laid-back lunches and relaxed evening drinks, with an easy option to buy retail items to take home.
Plan your visit
Book ahead for evenings and busy weekend slots, especially for groups. Arrive via the market and take a moment to browse the deli counter before choosing a table, or grab a stool at the bar for a quicker experience. Bring company for shared tasting, or drop in solo for a relaxed glass and a market view. Check the venue website or social feed for the latest practical details.
Dave’s wine bar
Image / www.daveswinebar.com
Intimate spot for curious palates, where great wine meets warm London hospitality.
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What to expect
Expect an inviting, low-lit interior with a focus on wines from near and far, plus a small selection of complementary plates and well-made cocktails. Staff are welcoming and happy to guide choices, tailoring recommendations to taste and occasion. Attention to detail shows in glassware and presentation, creating an experience that feels both relaxed and considered , ideal for quiet conversation or a lively catch-up.
Plan your visit
Located in the heart of the City, the bar makes a great stop while exploring nearby markets and office neighbourhoods. For a calmer experience, aim for weekday mornings or early evenings; for a buzzy night out, head in later on weekday evenings. Consider booking for larger groups, and leave time to wander the surrounding streets afterwards.
Humble Grape Liverpool Street - Wine Bar & Restaurant
Image / Humble Grape
A cosy wine lover’s paradise in the heart of the city.
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What to expect
Step into a carefully designed interior where shelves of curated bottles set the scene and warm lighting creates a welcoming ambience. Expect knowledgeable staff who tailor recommendations to your tastes, and a menu built around shareable plates meant to complement the wine. The atmosphere balances cosy comfort with a gentle buzz, making it equally suitable for quiet conversation, celebratory moments and convivial group nights.
Plan your visit
Ideal for unwinding after work, a romantic evening or a relaxed get-together with friends. Seating is intimate, so booking for groups is recommended. Ask the staff for tasting suggestions or paired pours, arrive open to discovery, and allow time to soak up the atmosphere and the well-curated wine list.