Canary Wharf might be all suits and skyscrapers by day, but come evening, it transforms into a buzzing hub of bars and pubs ready to help you unwind. Whether you’re after a riverside pint at a historic pub like The Gun, a rooftop cocktail with skyline views at Bōkan, or a lively game of shuffleboard paired with drinks at Electric Shuffle, there’s something for every taste. From cosy wine bars to vibrant spots with live music, Canary Wharf’s nightlife scene is as diverse as its daytime hustle. So, loosen that tie and explore the best watering holes this financial district has to offer.
Pergola on the Wharf
Address: Crossrail Pl, London, E14 5AR
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Pergola on the Wharf is nestled within Crossrail Place in Canary Wharf, perched above the northern dock. This prime location offers panoramic views of the water and the surrounding cityscape, making it a standout spot in East London.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue exudes a botanical charm, adorned with lush greenery, including ferns, vines, and flowers. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere. The wraparound terrace provides an alfresco experience, perfect for both daytime relaxation and evening gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal All-Day Dining: Pergola on the Wharf offers a menu inspired by the elements of Earth, Land, and Sea. Dishes are crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients, with options ranging from charred cauliflower with fermented chilli sauce to masala-spiced monkfish. The in-house kitchen ensures quality and consistency across all offerings.
- Vibrant Events and Entertainment: The venue hosts a variety of events throughout the week. ‘Pergola Lates’ every Friday features top DJs and live saxophone performances, creating a lively nightlife experience. Saturdays are marked by a vibrant Bottomless Brunch, while Sundays offer traditional roasts and ‘Soulful Sundays’ with live music.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Bōkan 38 Bar
Address: Floor 38, 40 Marsh Wall, London, E14 9TP
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Bōkan 38 Bar is perched on the 38th floor of the Novotel in Canary Wharf, offering panoramic views over London’s Docklands and the City skyline. Its location makes it a standout destination for both locals and visitors seeking a sky-high experience in East London.
- What’s the Vibe? The bar exudes a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, blending industrial chic with warm, inviting touches. Exposed steel beams and soft lighting create an elegant setting, while floor-to-ceiling windows ensure the breathtaking views remain the focal point. The ambiance is ideal for both intimate evenings and lively gatherings.
What’s On Offer
- Signature Cocktails with a Historical Twist: Bōkan 38 Bar offers a curated selection of innovative cocktails, each inspired by London’s rich maritime history. Standouts include “The British Moai,” a tropical blend of Bacardi Carta Blanca, falernum, and guanabana, and “The Old Sailor,” featuring Woodford Reserve bourbon with Galliano and Fernet Branca. These drinks not only delight the palate but also tell stories of the city’s past.
- Private Hire & Events: The venue is available for private hire, accommodating up to 150 guests. Whether it’s a corporate event, birthday celebration, or special occasion, Bōkan 38 provides a memorable setting with bespoke service options.
- Age and Dress Policy: Guests under 18 are welcome when accompanied by a parent or guardian until 8:00 PM. The dress code is smart casual; entry may be denied to those wearing flip-flops or Crocs.
- Payment: Please note that Bōkan 38 Bar is a cashless venue and only accepts card payments.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday to Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Last orders at 10:00 PM)
- Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Last orders at 11:00 PM)
- Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Last orders at 12:00 AM)
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Last orders at 12:00 AM)
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Last orders at 10:00 PM)
The Sipping Room
Address: 16 Hertsmere Road, West India Quay, E14 4AX
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Nestled along the historic West India Quay in Canary Wharf, The Sipping Room occupies a Grade II listed warehouse just a short stroll from West India Quay DLR station. Its waterside setting offers a tranquil escape amidst the bustling financial district.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue seamlessly blends rustic charm with contemporary elegance. Exposed brickwork, timber beams, and plush furnishings create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The expansive alfresco terrace, adorned with greenery and overlooking the docks, provides an idyllic spot for both daytime relaxation and evening socialising.
What’s On Offer
- Seasonal Menus & Signature Cocktails: The Sipping Room boasts a diverse menu featuring seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include the Rainbow Bowl – a vibrant mix of vegan superstraccia cheese, avocado, roasted squash, and more – and the Crispy Duck Salad with Asian vegetables and hoisin. Complementing the food is an extensive drinks list, showcasing handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, and craft beers.
- Unique Dining Experiences: Beyond its regular offerings, the venue hosts a variety of events and experiences. Notably, during the winter months, guests can dine in heated glass igloos adorned with twinkling lights, providing a magical setting for festive gatherings. Additionally, mixology classes are available, allowing patrons to delve into the art of cocktail making under expert guidance.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Humble Grape
Address: 18-20 Mackenzie Walk, London, E14 4PH
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? Humble Grape Canary Wharf is nestled along the scenic Middle Dock in the heart of Canary Wharf, East London. It’s easily accessible via the Jubilee Line, DLR, and the Elizabeth Line, making it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors.
- What’s the Vibe? The venue exudes a blend of modern elegance and rustic charm. With its warm lighting, cork-lined walls, and an inviting open-plan layout, it offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. The waterside terrace adds to its appeal, providing a tranquil setting for al fresco dining and drinks.
What’s On Offer
- Extensive Wine Selection: Boasting over 450 artisan wines sourced directly from sustainable, independent vineyards worldwide, Humble Grape offers a curated selection that caters to both connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts. Their commitment to organic and biodynamic practices ensures quality and authenticity in every bottle.
- Private Events & Dining: Humble Grape offers versatile spaces for private events, including a private dining room accommodating up to 22 guests and a semi-private area suitable for 30 seated or 50 standing guests. Their events team is on hand to tailor experiences, from wine tastings to bespoke dinners. Humble Grape
- Dog-Friendly Venue: Furry friends are welcome, making it an ideal spot for dog owners looking to enjoy a glass of wine without leaving their pets behind.
- Weekly Wine Events: Engage in a variety of wine-centric events throughout the week:
- Monday: Enjoy any bottle from the wine shop at take-away prices when dining in.
- Tuesday: Partake in a mini tasting of four wines for £17 per person.
- Thursday & Friday: Experience premium wines by the glass during “Icon Wine” evenings.
- Saturday: Drop in for complimentary tastings until 6 PM.
- Sunday: Savour a traditional roast with options like beef, pork, lamb, or a nut roast, and receive £35 towards your wine tab for groups larger than four.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Monday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Retail opens at 11:00 AM)
SOMA
Address: 6 Frobisher Passage, Canary Wharf, E14 5HA
The Basics: Location and Atmosphere
- Where Is It? SOMA Canary Wharf is discreetly nestled beneath the DLR tracks in the heart of London’s financial district. Situated adjacent to its sister restaurant, Kricket, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the bustling skyscrapers and corporate hustle of Canary Wharf.
- What’s the Vibe? The bar exudes a minimalist, industrial-chic aesthetic with its concrete walls, ambient lighting, and a striking steel-topped central bar. The intimate setting, complemented by low seating and a subdued colour palette, creates a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, reminiscent of a modern speakeasy.
What’s On Offer
- Innovative Cocktails with Indian Influences: SOMA’s cocktail menu is a testament to creativity, blending classic mixology with flavours inspired by the Indian subcontinent. Standout concoctions include the ‘Apricot’, featuring Martell VS, apricot, white chocolate bourbon, and fenugreek bitters, and the ‘Chaat’, a smoky margarita infused with mezcal, tequila, kumquat, and chaat masala spices.
- Exceptional Non-Alcoholic Options: For those preferring alcohol-free beverages, SOMA offers sophisticated mocktails like the ‘Samphire’, a blend of samphire tea, Himalayan salt, ginger, and green chilli, delivering a complex and umami-rich flavour profile.
- Reservations and Walk-ins: While SOMA primarily welcomes walk-in guests, limited reservations are available online for groups of up to 15 people between 5:00 PM and 11:00 PM from Tuesday to Saturday. For larger groups or private hire inquiries, it’s recommended to contact the venue directly.
- Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for all patrons.
Practical Info
- When Can You Visit?
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Thursday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Sunday and Monday: Closed
Ready to Visit?
Canary Wharf isn’t just a business district – it’s a vibrant destination for after-hours fun, with a nightlife scene as diverse as its daytime crowd. From sipping innovative cocktails at SOMA’s industrial-chic bar to enjoying seasonal dishes and skyline views at Pergola on the Wharf, there’s no shortage of standout spots. Wine lovers will feel right at home at Humble Grape, while Bōkan 38 Bar delivers cocktails with a view. And if you fancy dining in a glass igloo or crafting your own cocktails, The Sipping Room has you covered.
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