Opening on October 24, Zum Barbarossa will be London’s latest speakeasy bar, offering a variety of cocktails and late-night entertainment in the heart of Soho.
Housed within a Grade II listed Georgian townhouse from 1730, the venue features a hidden basement that reveals an intimate, Parisian-style bar adorned with historical arches. Zum Barbarossa will operate as a comprehensive cocktail bar and club, where guests can indulge in an array of handcrafted cocktails while enjoying live DJs spinning jazzy deep house music, backed by a state-of-the-art L-Acoustics sound system.
This new speakeasy is the latest creation from the family behind The Seafood Bar on Dean Street, marking its London debut after the successful flagship bar in Amsterdam. From the scenic Dutch canals to the vibrant streets of Soho, Zum Barbarossa offers a distinctive night-time experience.
Signature cocktails crafted by expert mixologists include the Spicy Rose Paloma, Hot Honey Highball, Banana & Pineapple Daiquiri, Tommy’s Spicy Mezcalita, and Zespresso Martini. To complement the drinks, the menu features tempting small dishes such as caviar with blinis, dressed oysters, crab cakes, truffle & parmesan chips, and more.
The history of Zum Barbarossa dates back to 1900 in Amsterdam, where ‘Zum’ references the iconic mosaic at the entrance of the Barbarossa cellar, symbolizing a fruit tree with two clovers. This venue gained fame for its illegal gambling activities, which ceased in 1907 following a police crackdown. Fast forward, the cellar now thrives as one of Amsterdam’s premier nightlife spots, poised to extend its charm to London.
Interior design studio Marie Martin has crafted the aesthetic for both the Amsterdam venue and the new London site, drawing inspiration from the Art Nouveau movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, embodying bold and joyful iconography.
Co-founder Pep de Visscher expresses excitement about the London opening, stating, “Zum Barbarossa is taking its first steps outside of Amsterdam to London’s Soho, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. Our London speakeasy will reflect the essence of the original while capturing the vibrant spirit of the city’s nightlife.”
