Tony Pescatori, previously of Nightjar, will open Alma in London this November.
The new cocktail bar is in the space beneath Fernando Trocca's Argentinian restaurant Sucre on Great Marlborough Street in Soho, and replaces Abajo, which opened in the summer of 2021 in collaboration with Floreria Atlantico's Tato Giovannoni.
Alma is billed as offering "a progressive drinks menu, soundtracked to the rhythms of disco, funk and soul, played on wax, five nights a week in a luxurious, yet relaxed setting".
Its interiors pay homage to the 1970s with "a playful elevation on the original brickwork and raw materials by accentuating original features dating back to the 18th century", while incorporating soft corduroys and velvets, set alongside bronze mirrors and mid-century style wooden veneers.
Pescatori, whose new menu is said to highlight 'forgotten flavours' from around the world, said: “I’m thrilled to launch Alma, alongside a strong team of creative legends, mixing a variety of skill sets and driven by empathy, great vibes and a passion for the craft of drink-making."
The bar will offer sharing-style bar snacks and small plates from the restaurant upstairs, including the likes of cheese and onion empanadas, mini stone bass tostadas and pork belly and spiced pineapple sandwiches.