A Sip, a Secret, a Story … A Signature Bar Proud of Its History
One of the most famous bars in the Balkans and among the first bars in Bucharest blends over a century of history and tradition with the incredible vibe that comes from being the number one meeting point of the city.
World – Class Fame and a Century-Long History
Throughout its colourful history, the English Bar has played host to clandestine diplomatic meetings, high-level business deals, espionage and legendary celebrations.
Opened in 1914 and originally located at the front of the hotel, the bar was initially called The American Bar and changed its name to English Bar between the two World Wars. The English Bar, with its elegant, dimly lit ambiance, was the very place where German and Allied spies mingled, traded secrets, and attempted to sway Romania’s allegiance.
The bar was a favorite haunt of foreign correspondents, including R. G. Waldeck, an American journalist who documented the hotel’s atmosphere of espionage and information trade in her 1942 book Athénée Palace.
A safe haven for many people during troubled times in the 20th century, the bar gained even more notoriety due to Olivia Manning’s The Balkan Trilogy, the famous fiction series which was later made into a BBC production.
The English Bar moved to its current location when the hotel was extended in the 1960s.
A Timeless Icon Reimagined
In 2025, the English Bar gets a well-deserved revival and becomes The English Bar, blending its rich past with a modern, refreshing touch that elevates the guest experience while preserving its timeless allure.
While the soul of the English Bar remains unchanged, a thoughtful facelift introduces elegant new elements that complement its heritage. The bar counter, where countless glasses of fine spirits have been poured over the decades, has been refinished with polished marble, giving it a sophisticated, yet classic feel. Plush velvet seating in deep burgundy and forest green tones bring a touch of contemporary luxury, while discreet lighting ensures the atmosphere remains intimate and inviting.
New Menu Rooted in Legacy
Paying homage to its storied roots, the new cocktail menu offers a journey through eras, where nostalgia meets innovation.
Each signature drink is designed not just to impress the palate, but to evoke a feeling. The Room 149 Cocktail, with its deep, moody undertones and silken finish, speaks of quiet sophistication - ideal for slow evenings and deep conversations. In contrast, the 19-14 Cocktail bursts with bright aromatics and zesty energy, capturing the spirit of golden hour celebrations. These cocktails are more than drinks — they’re curated experiences, shaped by mood, moment, and memory.