The May Fair

MAYFAIR. Roaringly popular, this tiki-themed bar attracts the posh Brit set. Opulent cocktails can be ordered in sharing...

MAYFAIR. Roaringly popular, this tiki-themed bar attracts the posh Brit set. Opulent cocktails can be ordered in sharing bowls; seating is unusually plentiful and the crowd upbeat. Upstairs holds the lounge area, while in the basement lurks the gargantuan fish tank and dance floor. Be warned that the entry queue can be epic and that you might not have to look too hard to spot a royal: titles are ten-a-penny here.

Hours: Mon-Sat 5:30pm-3am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Other

MAYFAIR. This oasis of Moroccan opulence could humble even the proudest of sultans with its textured earth tones, brass...

MAYFAIR. This oasis of Moroccan opulence could humble even the proudest of sultans with its textured earth tones, brass lanterns, and North African art. Award-winning Momo has been a Mayfair fave for years, garnering high praise for its authentic fare, terrific service, and seductive live music. The restaurant's basement bar, Kemia, has become a popular evening spot for patrons looking to enjoy cocktails in a stylish (and secluded) setting. Kemia also features a weekly lineup of World Music performers. TUBE: Piccadilly Circus

Hours: Fri-Sat 7pm-1am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Other

MAYFAIR. High or low, whichever direction you fly, Cuckoo has long been renowned as one of the chicest nightlife options...

MAYFAIR. High or low, whichever direction you fly, Cuckoo has long been renowned as one of the chicest nightlife options in town. Drawing a celebrity clientele amid the glamorous rock crowd, the cocktails here are sublime. The policy is members and guestlist only ­ dress glam to stand a chance of gaining access, then shimmy beneath an LED color-rotating ceiling. Thursdays offer live music, while the restaurant here serves above-average bar-fare. TUBE: Piccadilly Circus

Hours: Restaurant Wed-Sat 8pm-11am
Club Wed-Sat 11pm-3am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Other

SOHO. With some sleuthing, you might deduce that this basement bar is one of Soho's best places to down cocktails and...

SOHO. With some sleuthing, you might deduce that this basement bar is one of Soho's best places to down cocktails and rub shoulders ­ especially if you want to escape touristy watering holes. After operating for years as a private club, Player is now open to all, until 11:00 PM or so on Fridays and Saturdays, when it becomes private again. Agent 007 would fit well in these sleek digs and be pleased to discover so many deliciously potent cocktails.

Hours: Tue-Thu 5:30pm-1am; Fri 5:30pm-2am; Sat 7pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Other

SOHO. If you're in Soho, it's late, AND you have an uncontrollable urge to hear great live jazz, blues or soul, chances...

SOHO. If you're in Soho, it's late, AND you have an uncontrollable urge to hear great live jazz, blues or soul, chances are this groovy cocktail lounge is right up your alley. Popular with 20-somethings who appreciate the sweet sounds of improvisational music, Jazz After Dark has developed a more upbeat - and more youthful - attitude that distinguishes it from its more reserved (and dimly lit) elders. If you want to be sure of a table, reservations are suggested. TUBE: Tottenham Court Road

Hours: Tue-Thu 5pm-2am; Fri-Sat 5pm-3am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Diner's Club , Other

BELGRAVIA. This busy bar serves a healthy repertoire of traditional Scottish fare and nightly doses of live jazz....

BELGRAVIA. This busy bar serves a healthy repertoire of traditional Scottish fare and nightly doses of live jazz. Dressed in the garb of a country pub ­ hardwood floors, oak paneling, tartan-inspired reds and greens, oil paintings ­ Boisdale pulls in folks from all walks of life. You can meet some real characters here ­ it is, after all, the politicos' hideaway of choice. When it's nice out, enjoy evening food and drink in the Courtyard Garden, which has a retractable roof. Each night, guests are treated to the cool, impromptu music of the Boisdale Blue Rhythm Band. TUBE: Victoria

Hours: Auld Restaurant and Courtyard Garden Mon-Fri Noon-2:30pm, 6pm-11:15pm; Sat 6pm-11:15pm
MacDonald Bar Mon-Fri Noon-1am; Sat 6pm-1am
Back Bar Mon-Fri Noon-11pm; Sat 6pm-11pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Other

STRAND. Americans visiting Great Britain often seek out authentic London nightlife, but after a few days of pubs and...

STRAND. Americans visiting Great Britain often seek out authentic London nightlife, but after a few days of pubs and chi-chi wine bars, some find themselves wanting a taste of home. American Bar offers just that, but in a classic sense. The Savoy Hotel's buzz-worthy bar features the mood and music of the 1920s, from the cool American jazz played by the pianist down to the snazzy cocktails served at the bar. Some knowing patrons even claim the bartenders mix the best martinis in town. While the vibe is laid back and casual, be advised that jackets and ties are common here. TUBE: Charing Cross

Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-Midnight; Sun Noon-11pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Diner's Club , Other

SOUTH BANK. Ideally located in London's upscale South Bank neighborhood, Primo Bar is the place to be seen whilst...

SOUTH BANK. Ideally located in London's upscale South Bank neighborhood, Primo Bar is the place to be seen whilst enjoying a hand-crafted cocktail courtesy of the bar's skilled mixologists. Live music starts at 8pm, and the DJs get going around 11pm and keep things lively until the wee hours. For fantastic views of Big Ben, be sure to book a table in the VIP section.

Hours: Daily Noon-Late

WATERLOO. One of the best places in London to savor Russian vodka, this contemporary spot draws a well-heeled mix of...

WATERLOO. One of the best places in London to savor Russian vodka, this contemporary spot draws a well-heeled mix of young professionals and style-conscious locals. The gallery-like interior is defined by stark white walls, modern art, sharp angles, recessed lighting, and a dining room with a high atrium ceiling. Enjoy a favorite brand of vodka (they offer more than 40 varieties) and even a bite to eat ­ if you've never sampled Eastern European cuisine, now's your chance, tovarich.

Hours: Restaurant Mon-Sat Noon-3:15pm, 5:30pm-11pm; Sun Noon-10:30pm
Bar Mon-Sat Noon-Midnight; Sun Noon-10:30pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Other

CAMDEN TOWN. Known as one of the north side's best nightspots, Jazz Café books both established performers and...

CAMDEN TOWN. Known as one of the north side's best nightspots, Jazz Café books both established performers and promising up-and-comers each week. Young professionals and more "experienced" aficionados make up the crowd, although seating can be a little snug when a big name is fronting ­ but what more can you ask? Food is served in the balcony overlooking the stage. Take note, however, that dining reservations are essential. TUBE: Camden Town

Hours: Daily 7pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card