Bar consultant Jack Sotti is to launch hidden bar Archive & Myth beneath the Hippodrome Casino in June.
Accessed through a password-protected door off Cranbourn Street on Leicester Square, which leads deep beneath the Hippodrome Casino, the 45-cover Archive & Myth has a classical approach to drinks, but a fresh approach to serves – the menu is split into full and miniature-sized vessels.
Sotti’s cocktails are inspired by the 124-year-old venue’s “past and forgotten legends” through signatures and “elevated takes” on classics.
Sotti, who will spend at least a year with Archive & Myth, told CLASS: "The hippodrome is such a historic building and has been home to all sorts of wonderful shows and live performances since its opening in 1898.
"In the depths of the building was an old storeroom where we found lots of old artifacts stored from event programs, vintage posters for the shows that took place, paintings and artworks and even some dusty old bottles. Each one of those items told a story, an archive of the history of the building, but also held myths of times gone that we can't prove.
"Based on this we wanted to open a bar that paid tribute to the history, a bar that could have been down here the whole time that we simply spruced up."
Archive & Myth’s interiors are by theatrical production designer Rachel O'Toole, the creative force behind the designs of Hippodrome's Magic Mike Live London, with which the bar shares an entrance.
The cocktail menu and decor are inspired by the building's "old artworks, bottles and vinyl recordings of past performances".
Sotti added: "We've brought these elements into the decor and touch points with our gramophone and vintage spirits. With the cocktail menu, it had to read like a classic drinks list with vintage drinks references like Pousse-Café, Absinthe Frappe and Sazerac, but behind the scenes took an innovative approach so we can surprise and delight guests."
The bar team is lead by head bartender Laurie Howells, formerly of Alma London, who will serve cocktails such as Mizuwari: Young Fir Tip, Japanese Whisky, Yuzushu, Magnesium, Cold Bubbles; Soixante-Quinze: Elderflower, Gentian, Dry Torrontes, White Chocolate, Gin, Lemon Oils; and Whiskey Sour with White Miso, Black Braeburn, Lowland Whisky, Espadin.
The drinks are joined by Hong Kong-inspired bites including dim sum, spring rolls and salt & pepper prawns from The Hippodrome's Chinese restaurant, Chop Chop by Four Seasons.
Launching June 13th at The Hippodrome Casino (Cranbourn St, Leicester Square, London WC2H 7JH) and open between Wednesday – Sunday (6pm-2am) reservations for Archive & Myth are now available at ArchiveAndMyth.co.uk.