Seemor
Murder Inc. CocktailsBWorth Trying
36 Hanway St, London W1T 1UP
· Cocktail bar
· 4.9/5 Google (689 reviews)
Reservations
Inventive cocktails in a cozy basement speakeasy vibe with standout hospitality; can get crowded and slow at peak times, snacks are limited.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Murder Inc. Cocktails delivers solid grade B performance through exceptional staff warmth and hospitality and well-crafted, creative cocktails. However, service slowness during peak hours and a cramped basement setting prevent higher grades. The bar excels as a welcoming neighborhood cocktail destination with genuine character, though operational constraints limit it from competing with London's premier cocktail venues.
Restaurant Summary
Down a narrow staircase off Oxford Street, this basement bar hums with warm, speakeasy charm. Guests rave about staff who make you feel looked after, and one summed it up neatly: "They guided us and kept the mood just right." It can pack out fast, so expect a lively, intimate room more than elbow room. The drinks lean playful and polished rather than showy: riffs like Blue Legume, Florida Man, and a standout dirty martini sit beside well-made classics. Expect strong, well-balanced pours and staff who steer you toward your palate. A few outliers found a drink too bold or service slow at peak, but most describe a bar that is creative and welcoming without the fuss. Families should note this is a late-night, stairs-down cocktail spot with a compact snack list. Kids will find little to eat beyond olives, nuts, or occasional nachos; the appeal is firmly adult. If you need a kid-friendly menu, choose elsewhere.
At a Glance
- Engaging, knowledgeable staff who guide cocktail choices
- Creative, well-balanced cocktails with playful riffs and solid classics
- Small, crowded space at peak; waits for drinks can be long
- Limited snacks; nachos can sell out early
- Fair pricing for Central London quality; mocktails well priced
What Sets It Apart
- inventive_cocktail_program
- warm_hospitality_culture
- cozy_speakeasy_setting
What People Love
- Cozy underground vibe
- Staff who make guests feel welcome
- Inventive menu with memorable flavors
- Consistently tasty classics on request
- Fair Central London pricing
Points of Concern
- Peak-time service can be slow with empty-glass lag
- Very small room; noise and crowding when busy
- Snacks limited and popular items may run out
- Door policy and security interactions occasionally frustrate guests
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£27-32 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Plan two cocktails at ~£13.50 each; add nuts or olives if nachos unavailable
- Mocktails at ~£6.50 are a value choice for non-drinkers
Perfect For
- Date night with inventive drinks
- Pre- or post-theatre cocktails
- Solo bar perch with bartender guidance
- Small groups who book ahead
Location Insights
Area: Central London back street near Oxford Street; lively nightlife and post-theatre crowd.
Safety: Busy, well-trodden area; typical late-night bustle with doormen presence.
Nearby: Close to Oxford Street shopping and West End theatres; many bars and eateries nearby.
FitzroviaFitzrovia offers a dynamic dining scene with a mix of traditional pubs, modern eateries, and eclectic international cuisine. The neighborhood has a lively yet somewhat relaxed atmosphere, popular for casual lunches, after-work drinks, and weekend brunches, reflecting its creative and professional demographic.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–00:00
Tuesday17:00–00:00
Wednesday17:00–00:00
Thursday17:00–00:00
Friday17:00–02:00
Saturday17:00–02:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations
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