Seemor
The 40 ElephantsB+Worth Trying
3-5 Great Scotland Yard, London SW1A 2HN
· Cocktail bar, Bar, Lounge
· 4.6/5 Google (145 reviews)
Reservations
Polished hotel cocktail bar with inventive drinks, thoughtful service, and light bites; quality is high but prices and occasional service lapses can sting.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
The 40 Elephants delivers polished cocktail-bar excellence with attentive, knowledgeable service and exceptional design appeal that elevate the experience. However, inconsistent cocktail execution and occasional service delays prevent it from reaching grade A territory. For cocktail enthusiasts seeking a refined, history-rich setting with creative drinks and personable staff, it's a worthwhile destination—though premium pricing and variable consistency temper the overall impact.
Restaurant Summary
Set in a storied hotel just off Whitehall, this bar leans polished and intimate with elegant, history-rich decor. Reviews highlight staff who weave the venue’s backstory into service, like a guest noting the team "made the evening feel special". It is a spot where cocktails are the main event and the room feels quietly celebratory rather than rowdy. The drinks program is creative without theatrics, a contemporary craft approach that favors balance and theme over gimmicks. Expect signature serves with thoughtful ingredients and a compact list that evolves; most are excellent though a few spicy or smoky profiles divide opinion. Bar bites, from arancini to karaage, provide satisfying support rather than a full dinner, fitting the pre-dinner drinks or date-night lane. Families will find a refined adult focus. There is no kids menu, but simple nibbles like olives and crackers could tide over older children. For younger or picky eaters, the food skews light and grown-up; plan dinner elsewhere and drop in here for the parents’ treat.
At a Glance
- Elegant, history-infused setting with polished hotel-bar ambiance
- Inventive signature cocktails with knowledgeable, personable service
- Comfortable for solo sips, dates, or small groups
- Pricing is premium; snacks and water may be charged
- Occasional slow service or inconsistent cocktail execution
What Sets It Apart
- themed_cocktail_storytelling
- elegant_historic_setting
- attentive_named_service
What People Love
- Thoughtful storytelling behind the drinks
- Warm, attentive staff who guide choices
- Beautiful room with cozy, upscale feel
- Cocktails that taste crafted, not sugary
Points of Concern
- Pricing is premium (cocktails £14-20) and a 13.5% service charge may apply
- A few reports of slow initial greeting or long waits at peak times
- Isolated complaints about bill surprises for nibbles or bottled water
- Some cocktails with bold spice or smoke can feel unbalanced to certain palates
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£40-60 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair arancini with a bright, citrus-led cocktail to cut richness
- Choose grilled octopus salad if you want a more substantial plate without feeling heavy
- Ask if burrata preparation can be simplified for a milder bite
Perfect For
- Pre-theatre or pre-dinner drinks near Whitehall
- A polished date night with conversation-friendly ambiance
- Hotel guests seeking quality cocktails without leaving the property
- Small celebratory toasts or business catch-ups
Location Insights
Area: Historic government quarter near Whitehall; upscale hotels and offices, mixed with sightseeing traffic.
Safety: Well-lit, high-footfall government area; generally very safe with strong police presence.
Nearby: Near Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, and Embankment; adjacent to Great Scotland Yard Hotel and sister bar Sibin.
VictoriaVictoria is a bustling area with a mix of office workers, commuters, and tourists due to its major transport hub and proximity to Buckingham Palace. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from upscale restaurants and hotels to casual eateries catering to both professionals and visitors, with a generally safe and accessible environment.
Great Scotland YardGreat Scotland Yard is a historic street known for its association with the former Metropolitan Police headquarters and now hosts several high-end hotels and restaurants. The dining atmosphere here is refined and caters to a clientele seeking quality and exclusivity in a central London setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday09:30–00:00
Tuesday09:30–00:00
Wednesday12:00–00:00
Thursday12:00–00:00
Friday12:00–00:00
Saturday12:00–00:00
Sunday12:00–00:00
Available: Reservations
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