Brut force

This is a must for anyone who strays into the West End’s little black book. A champagne bar that really knows its fizz, Flûte London opened in the capital at the beginning of the year. This is the fourth Flûte in the world and follows the champagne bar’s success in New York and Paris. Located just north of Oxford Circus, Flûte is a unique and very welcome addition to an area of London not known for its great bars.

Flûte London on Great Portland StreetFlûte has a speakeasy feel with a location below street level. Down the stairs the cosy, curtained private areas, chic interior and welcoming, knowledgeable staff provide the background to a menu that features 100 champagnes.  The list is divided into brut non-vintage, rosé, blanc de blancs, blanc de noirs, vintage, extra brut and champagnes. Flûte also has a number of magnums on offer.

For those not wanting straight bubbly the champagne cocktails are very good – try a Dom Pérignon Mojito or Champagne Pisco Sour. The bar also serves an impressive and delicious menu, specially created to pair with the champagne and cocktails, making it even easier to let an indulgent evening pass by unnoticed. Reserve a table on a Wednesday for live jazz or at the weekend for live DJ sets.

Flûte also runs monthly champagne schools for those who would like to brush up a little on their blanc de blancs, extra brut, vintage, gourmet or prestige cuvée fizz.

Flûte London, 4 Great Portland Street, W1W 8PA, flutebar.com, 020 7323 2328. Bottles of champagne start at £60, cocktails £9.95, tasting plates start at £9.95.