There are two great American bars in London. One is perfect to escape the winter chill, the other to embrace summer sun. In winter, the American Bar at the Savoy – London’s oldest surviving cocktail bar – is ideal. There is a reason why this warm and welcoming spot has courted popularity for so long and is considered the spiritual home of modern mixology, at least in this country.

In the summer months, head for the American Bar at the Stafford. There you can enjoy the large terrace just a stone’s throw from St James’s Street, where similarly skilled bar staff are able to mix up pretty much anything one desires.

You know you’re in a great American bar when the bartenders are able to sling together on-menu or off-menu mixes while maintaining good conversation. As it becomes harder to see a doctor, a visit to a well-trained barman becomes even more worthwhile.

While the English have historically mixed spirits with soda or tonic,........

© The Spectator