Jin Bo Law - A Cocktail Bar in the City of London
In contrast to the previous cocktail bar review, Jin Bo Law is not in Dublin, but in the City of London (on the 14th floor of the Hotel Saint in Aldgate to be exact). Highly reviewed by many online and featured in many rankings of the top rooftop bars in London, Jin Bo Law certainly lives up to expectations. With a stunning view of the city skyline and some nice outdoor tables, it certainly makes for a great sunset watching spot.
Getting there is quite simple since it is located about 30 seconds away from the Aldgate tube station and there are lifts up to the top. The menu features a variety of signature cocktails (althought perhaps not as interesting as the Stella Cinema bar in Dublin) and any standard cocktails can be asked for as well. Drinks are priced reflecting its location and view at around 18£ per drink - which seems to be on the higher end for bars, although it could be argued that it is the standard nowadays (unfortunately).
The main reason to come here is undoubtably the view, which manages to cross off many famous London landmarks in the peripheral view, incuding the Walkie Talkie, the Gherkin, and Tower Bridge. The cocktails ordered are decent, but nothing that is particularly meomrable or unique (maybe only ordering standard cocktails made it less interesting). The dry martini was good, and the the usual questions of wanting either gin or vodka and if you wanted olives or a lemon twist are always welcome (it is comforting to know that you’ll likely enjoy what is ordered isntead of a pre batched cocktail). The old fashioned was also deceny, as well as the cosmopolitan, which was served in a metal martini glass. Another standound was definitely the service, in which the staff were very friendly and attentive.
It certainly does seem worthwhile to visit Jin Bo Law early in the evening, before sunset, since the view does change from a shiny sunlit group of skyscrapers (should it be sunny in London) to a moody and dimly lit ambiance with the offices in the background all lit up. Overall, Jin Bo Law is a strong recommendation for anyone looking for a mroe high end cockatil experience in London, that takes walk-ins and is not overly crowded.