The Tale Bar

Open to non-members, this lounge’s Vegas high-roller cobalt-and-mustard plush scheme screams mid-60s, the era when Hugh Heffner launched his original Mayfair bunny hutch on Park Lane. Strident feminists and PC punters may howl, but there are plenty of happy takers – male and female – for cocktails served by independently minded, intelligent (comely) hostesses in Playboy’s iconic 1950s, boned satin one-pieces, rabbit ears and cottontails. Previous barkeep Salvatore Calabrese has left the building – taking with him his fabled library of super-expensive vintage spirits, replaced by memorabilia that chronicles the Tale of the Playboy brand, hence the bar’s new handle. The result is a stripped-back version of what went before, with a less sophisticated (ergo less expensive), predominantly girly list. Classy Character (a Hendrick’s gin, apple, mint and elderflower highball) is a suitably summery refresher, or try a well-balanced Breakfast Martini. Snack on chicken satay, buffalo wings, beef burger sliders or salt and pepper squid. DJs animate a late-night bunny hop to pop and funky house anthems. Boozy afternoon tea is also served.