Seemor
OrioleBWorth Trying
7-9 Slingsby Pl, London WC2E 9AB
· Bar, Restaurant, Cocktail bar
· 4.7/5 Google (1149 reviews)
Reservations
Destination cocktail-and-live-music venue with creative small plates, standout drinks, and lively vibe; great night out but pricing, service pace, and cover charges can frustrate some.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Oriole delivers a compelling cocktail-and-live-music experience anchored by exceptional speakeasy ambiance and knowledgeable cocktail guidance, but inconsistent food quality and sluggish service pacing on busy nights prevent a higher grade. The venue excels as a destination for creative drinks and live sets rather than fine dining, making it ideal for cocktail-first diners willing to accept premium pricing and occasional kitchen missteps.
Restaurant Summary
Downstairs in Covent Garden, Oriole feels like a hidden lounge where live music and cocktails drive the night. Guests describe water glasses magically refilled and a room that swings from mellow piano to Latin heat. One diner summed it up: "The vibes were immaculate with the band." Expect a lively scene and a bill that often includes a music cover on show nights. The kitchen leans contemporary and globe-trotting rather than traditional, with ceviche, tartare, and kimchi-laced mains matching a creative bar list. Highlights include silky trout mi-cuit and a shareable tres leches, while the octopus divides opinion. It is a strong fit for adventurous palates who enjoy cocktail-first dining, though some find portions and prices hard to love when the room is very busy. Families may struggle here. The menu favors small plates and seafood, cocktails are central, and energy rises during sets. There is no kids menu, and dishes like ceviche, tartare, and kimchi pork may not suit picky eaters. If bringing children, aim for quieter times and stick to simpler bites like padron peppers or chickpea chips.
At a Glance
- Lively live music program that elevates the night
- Creative cocktails with attentive guidance from staff
- Pricing is premium with small portions and cover charges
- Service speed and coordination can wobble on busy nights
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- Live jazz with creative cocktails
- Speakeasy-style subterranean room
- Fusion menu aligning with bar program
What People Love
- Engaging bands that set the mood
- Bartenders tailoring drinks to taste
- Stylish speakeasy setting
- Standout plates like trout mi-cuit and tres leches
Points of Concern
- Cover charge for music (£6-12) appears on the bill; some guests felt this was unclear
- Small portions and cocktail volume complaints can make value feel mixed
- Service delays and disorganization reported for large parties and peak times
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£52-74 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Chickpea Chips (£6) or Padron Peppers (£7) while you browse cocktails
- Pair Seabass Ceviche (£14) with a citrus-forward drink to amplify freshness
- Choose Trout Mi-Cuit (£25) as a safe, praised main; finish with Delice (£10)
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails and live music
- Pre- or post-theater drinks and bites
- Celebrations that love a buzzing room
- Small groups who enjoy sharing plates
Location Insights
Area: Upmarket, entertainment-focused precinct in Covent Garden attracting theatergoers, tourists, and after-work crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, high footfall, well lit; typical central London bustle late into evenings.
Nearby: Near theaters, shopping arcades at The Yards, and many bars; easy pre- and post-show stops.
Covent GardenCovent Garden is a bustling area famous for its historic market, street performers, and a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The social atmosphere is lively and cosmopolitan, with a strong emphasis on arts, culture, and nightlife.
Slingsby PlaceSlingsby Place is a small, tucked-away street within Covent Garden that offers a more intimate dining experience compared to the busier main squares, frequented by those seeking quality food in a quieter setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday15:00–23:00
Wednesday15:00–00:00
Thursday15:00–00:00
Friday15:00–01:00
Saturday15:00–01:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations
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