Seemor
Cahoots UndergroundC+Mixed Bag
13 Kingly Ct, Carnaby, London W1B 5PW
· Cocktail bar, Bar, Event venue
· 4.6/5 Google (4674 reviews)
Reservations
Immersive 1940s-themed cocktail bar with lively music and showy drinks; great vibe but pricey with inconsistent service and strict time limits.
Why it gets a C+ for overall quality
Cahoots Underground trades on exceptional atmospheric design and location rather than cocktail mastery or food quality. Drink quality varies noticeably across visits, and tight quarters with wobbling tables undermine comfort, while strict time limits and door policies frustrate guests seeking a relaxed experience. Best suited for themed nights out and special occasions rather than serious cocktail or dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Step down into a make-believe tube station where the room feels warm and bustling, musicians take cheeky requests, and cocktails arrive in quirky vessels. Guests rave that the decor is totally immersive, though some find the door policy and time limits a buzzkill. One diner summed it up: "You pay for the atmosphere more than the pour." The cooking sits behind the show—think nibbles and toasties—while the bar leans on playful presentation over mixology fireworks. Drinks can be inventive and fun, but quality swings from excellent to sugary depending on the night. It suits visitors seeking a themed night out, birthdays, or spirited date nights more than cocktail purists. Families should note this is a nightlife venue with loud music and time-limited sessions. The snack menu has kid-familiar items like truffle chips and a toastie, but the focus is cocktails, not dinner. If you need a relaxed, kid-friendly meal, consider alternatives nearby.
At a Glance
- Immersive 1940s decor and live music create a memorable night out
- Theatrical cocktails and playful service add to the fun
- £15-16 cocktails with variable quality and small pours
- Strict 2-hour limits and door policy can feel rigid
- Tourist-heavy spot; expect queues and a premium for the theme
What Sets It Apart
- immersive_1940s_underground_theme
- live_music_with_requests
- theatrical_cocktail_presentation
What People Love
- Immersive underground station theme
- Musicians who take requests
- Playful presentation like smoke bubbles
- Friendly staff interactions on good nights
- Feeling transported for a couple of hours
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (£15-16 cocktails) for variable drink quality
- Rigid time limits; last-call reminders with 30 minutes left feel abrupt
- Service inconsistencies from brilliant to brusque, especially door and security
- Review patterns show tourist appeal that may inflate expectations
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£35-50 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair one shareable snack (Cheese Board or Arancini) with a classic cocktail; add Truffle Chips if hungry. Request spirit-forward builds to avoid excessive sweetness.
Perfect For
- Celebrating a birthday with showy cocktails
- Date night with live music and a theme
- Team outing where vibe beats cuisine
- Out-of-towners seeking a memorable Soho bar
Location Insights
Area: Trendy pedestrian courtyard off Carnaby Street, heavy footfall, popular with shoppers and night-out crowds.
Safety: Busy, well-lit central Soho area with steady foot traffic; generally safe though crowded on weekends.
Nearby: Steps from Carnaby Street retail, near Oxford Circus and Soho nightlife; many bars and restaurants nearby.
CarnabyCarnaby is famous for its trendy boutiques, eclectic dining options, and lively atmosphere. The area offers a mix of casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and vibrant bars, making it a popular destination for socializing and dining out in a stylish yet relaxed environment.
Kingly CourtKingly Court is a small, pedestrianized courtyard within Carnaby known for its diverse range of independent restaurants and bars. It has a laid-back, intimate vibe that contrasts with the busier streets around it, making it a favored spot for relaxed meals and social gatherings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–01:00
Tuesday17:00–01:00
Wednesday17:00–01:00
Thursday16:00–02:00
Friday16:00–02:00
Saturday13:00–02:00
Sunday16:00–00:00
Available: Reservations
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