Father’s day is coming up soon, and like us, you’re probably wondering how best to treat the Old Man. Some dads might enjoy the local boozer, a pint of lager and a bag of pork scratchings. However, if you’re looking for somewhere slightly more sophisticated, then we recommend the Equus Bar at the Royal Horseguards Hotel.
Situated in the heart of Westminster the bar is part of the five-star Royal Horseguards Hotel. Relaunched in March it's reminiscent of a gentlemen’s club – the classy kind, not the sleazy kind – harking back to the history of the hotel as a place where major British historical figures have gathered for centuries.
These legendary gentlemen also lend their names to Equus’ signature cocktails. We downed one too many Lord Kitcheners, twisted gin and tonics and George Bernard Shaws which comprised of gin and cherry liquor. The Churchill, whiskey infused with tobacco syrup is definitely an acquired taste, but the perfect concept for this hotels most famous patron.
The canapés available here are as good, if not better than the cocktails. The beef tartare was perfectly prepared with a peppery, citrusy zing to it; the crab bloody marys were smooth and piquant. The scallops with foie gras were delicate, but the highlight was the succulent braised lamb served on mashed potato in tiny individual saucepans.
Equus is not at the cheaper end of the spectrum, but still feels like great value because the quality is so high. It feels rather like a secret venue, hidden away from tourists on a quiet street, so enjoy it now before the word gets out and the queues start forming! And yes they accept plastic.....
Equus Bar, Royal Horseguards Hotel,2 Whitehall Court, SW1A
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