Zenna Bar is London's first and only Indian themed cocktail bar, and one of the capital's finest drinking establishments. Located underneath the infamous Red Fort Indian Restaurant, opposite Quo Vadis on Dean Street in Soho, Zenna is a real treat for anyone lucky enough to find it.
It has been called one of the best cocktail bars in London by national news publications and independent review sites alike.
Zenna is not like other cocktail bars, wine bars, pubs or clubs. There is no entrance fee, or silly charge for use of the cloakroom. Zenna Bar is proud to be just about the experience that all good cocktail bars should give in London. There are regular events, DJs on Thursday-Saturday, and special events like cocktail masterclasses and tasting sessions, as well as what must be london's hardest quiz.
Zenna's master mixologist, Dan Thomson won the whisky cocktail of the year last year, as well as having won several other mixology awards like the legend of Kremlin Vodka mixologist of the year 2011, and was nominated for best bartender 2011 by the london bar and club awards.
Zenna opened its doors in February 2011 and is already one of london's cocktail destinations.
www.zenna-bar.co.uk
Friday 10 June 2011
Testimonials about Zenna
In one line: Zenna has the most exciting cocktail menu in London today.
In full…? Zenna is a great little bar under the heart of Soho, and although quite difficult to spot the first time you go looking for it, is a real treat when inside. You go down these steps under an Indian Restaurant, and at the bottom of the stairs there’s this amazing floating candle and flower decoration. Turn round the corner into the bar and you’re met with the best that Soho has to offer, the people are a really trendy mixture of celebs and local media types all sipping cocktails, not a beer or glass of wine in sight. We were greeted with a smile from the staff and when they gave us a menu, they recommended that we try their ‘house nectar’ cocktail which is a secret recipe! Feeling adventurous we thought we’d give it a go… OH MY GOD!!! This was the tastiest cocktail I think I’ve ever had, it was like solero exotic in a drink.?The other cocktails on the menu were a very clever mixture of classic cocktails with an indian spice twist like cardamon and coriander.?We went on a Thursday when Zenna has a DJ. That night that we went he was on fire! His music choice was simply perfect and had the whole place tapping their toes if they weren’t already up on the dancefloor. ?The worst thing about Zenna is that it’s only open until 1am. ?The barstaff are really attentive and really quite attractive, which makes a nice change from other bars in the area. ?All in all, a great place. I’ve already booked an alcove for my 30th!
Jenni on Qype
It was the claim that Zenna served the hottest cocktail in the world that drew me here but I ended up chickening out on this occasion and opting for a lesser spicy drink, The Bee Sting (which was still fairly hot).
I like this place, because the staff here understand how to make good cocktails. I sat and watched the staff attentively create their masterpieces for their customers and they sure knew what they were doing. In the week before St Patrick’s Day Zenna served a trio of Irish themed cocktails which looked lovely. My wife tried the Shamrock Apple Martini which went down very quickly and easily!
The spicy drinks are off-set by the lassi bar which offers a nice selection of sweet and salty lassis with and without alcohol.
The bar is below the celebrated Red Fort Indian restaurant, so the lassi connection is not lost in this venue, and neither are the Indian bar snacks which were delicious.
Raxlakhani on Qype
We went here for the launch party and they had a selection of the cocktails on offer for us to sample, including the second hottest, which my partner tried. This ‘Red Fort’ cocktail was almost more savory (which is fine by me as a lot of so-called cocktails can be too teeth-suckingly sweet) with a powerful kick. My Garden Martini was lovely and fresh.
Now at this point the owner came over to say hello. He told us about his plans for a Lassi bar in the summer and how the hottest cocktail in the world comes with its own foaming (and alcoholic) ‘fire extinguisher’ side cocktail. Sadly we didn’t get the sample it – but it sounds crazy.
As it’s underneath a very good Indian Restaurant it benefits from using its kitchen for bar snacks. These were incredible, definitely try the lamb, and made me want to go to the restaurant upstairs.
Perfect for now, but maybe a little warm in the summer but I’d recommend that you go and try the hot cocktail.
Alexandra on Qype
I went down to Zenna with some girlfriends last night and I just cant tell enough people about it.
Zenna must be the best bar in London, I think it’s only just opened, which is great because not that many people know about it, it was just fantastic. We saw a couple of celebs sat having some cocktails in one of the alcove, the music was amazing, and I mean amazing, the DJ was on fire.
But the really great thing about Zenna are the cocktails, they were delicious.
J Lawrence on View London
Fast becoming my regular bar of choice! Although it was difficult to find at first, being located beneath the Red Fort restaurant, I am definitely glad I persisted and managed to find this amazing bar.
The first time I came here was with my partner. We were spoilt for choice as to what to order from the inspiring cocktail menu, so we asked for assistance from the friendly and helpful bar staff. After identifying what flavours we both liked, he was able to pick out a cocktail each for us both to which we both thoroughly enjoyed! I ordered several more that night and each were attentively and magnificently made as the last.
I would definitely recommend Zenna for a brilliant cocktail.
Negroni8 on View London
Went there last week for some after work drinks as we heard it had recently opened and everyone really enjoyed themselves.
I tried the the ‘Illiana’ which is a very spicy cocktail for which I was required to sign a waiver for, it was really delicious and the cocktail ‘Fire Extinguisher’ it came with was very delicious and refreshing.
My friend said that it was one of the best Bloody Mary’s he had ever had and wouldn’t stop going on about it.
We all really enjoyed the atmosphere in Zenna as there was a great buzz about the bar and the bar staff were both friendly and accomodating so all in all a really worthwhile trip.
EnglishGent on View London
I dont often right reviews but in this scenario I feel I have to. Last week I visited Zenna Bar and I must admit Zenna Bar is one of the best cocktail bars in London, without a doubt! The staff are so welcoming and friendly, the cocktails are amazing, especially the House nectar and Augustine cocktails. I will definitely be coming here again.
Asante on View London
Zenna has a great atmosphere this is mainly due to the great bar staff and setting. I am quite picky when it comes to Cocktails…however these were delicious! I especially recommend the house nectar, which is sweet and creamy! My boyfriend loves spicy cocktails which is one of the main reasons we thought we’d try out this bar (it has some of the worlds spiciest Cocktails!!) I didn’t try those but he seemed to order quite a few from the menue and wants to go back next week!
ElizaNorman on View London
I went down to check this place out last night and I must say it was great! I couldn’t imagine a spicy cocktail would work (Bloody Marys aside) but decided I had to try their worlds spiciest cocktail and WOW what a great drink. Smooth and punchy and your getting two drinks for your money with the Gin based ‘fire extinguisher’ that comes with it (a necessary addition!). I have eaten in the Red Fort before and know just how good the food is there so it was no surprise that the bar snacks were lovely. The staff were great and I would definitely recommend going!
LambertPatrick on View London
How I got to be in Zenna last Thursday night was something of an accident – I was at the wrong party at the wrong time! Anyhow, the host, a certain Mr Emmanuel Ray asked me to stay to enjoy ambience, cocktails, Indian style canapés, Amy Heasman singing live and even a back, neck and head massage.
I’d say that the staff was very professional and it was nice to see Dan Thomson on the shop floor mingling with guests. I enjoyed both the canapés, which were flavoursome, but not too spicy, and the cocktails. I recommend the Revitaliser Caipirinha, which consists of organic cachaça goji berries, aloe vera juice, lime and açai berries.
The bar itself is located in the basement and is intimate, chic and relaxing. Zenna is a fun place to go with friends, a date or to have an organised event.
Gym R on Yelp
Walking down the hustle and bustle of Dean Street, you’d be forgiven for not even spotting Zenna. But behind this unassuming door, you’ll find a world of bizzarre cocktails and great tunes…
Zenna is a bit of a strange mix – Indian inspired cocktails and 90′s pop music, but I love both so I was onto a winner the moment I stepped down the stairs.
My tipple of choice – the coriander and lychee dacquiri. Just what I craved on a balmy London evening. After a lethal glass or two, I’d forgotten that I actually wasn’t all that keen on coriander! Luckily for me, it was just a hint, rather than a herb garden.
With cute alcoves and hide aways to drink and be merry in, it’s a great place to gossip or to take a date you don’t want to stand more than 2 inches away from.
Fun, cool, intimate and trendy. If you find yourself in soho looking for a cocktail with a twist, Zenna’s the place to go…?
Jenni D on Yelp
very unassuming from the outside…casual dining upstairs and a bar/lounge downstairs with a full bar. the drink menu is classic (but enticing) cocktails with an indian twist. i had the lychee and coriander daquiri. dangerously yummy – not as sweet as the smell and just a hint of coriander in the nose.
we also tried the starter platter (can’t remember if that was the actual name) which was solid chunks of salmon, chicken, prawns and veggies – 2 of each. the starter, water and 4 pieces of bread (not big like naan) totaled £45. it’s a bit much for my average evening dining but it’s a good contemporary take of indian flavors.?
Amy A on Yelp
Gimmicks not needed….the cocktails stand on their own…I’ve found the cocktail diamond inn?Chi tea martini just Deeeevine, I originally wanted to try this place because they boost the hottest cocktail and you even have to sign a waver, whilst I didn’t try this it’s now on my hit list to go again and again….one of my victims, sorry I mean friends may try it?… this is sooooo now my cocktail master?
Katie W on Yelp
Heard about this place through a friend of a friend as it’s just up the road from the office. ?Walking down the stairs with the floating candles you start to feel relaxed already. This is a great bar for an early evening chat with friends and then, when we had still not left by 10 because the cocktail menu was too good to miss and the Bar staff were so good at helping me choose then next one, telling me about the history etc., it turns into a great place to come for a party. Can’t rate this bar highly enough, go and check it out! ?Great staff, really impressive menu and as Ben J said above no bouncer or entry or pretentious door rubbish just a really great night.?
Patrick on Yelp
When I finally found Zenna, hidden under an indian restaurant on Dean Street I was pleasantly surprised. There was no entry charge, no cost for the cloak room, and no pretentious bouncer at the door.?We walked straight in, the atmosphere was fantastic, the interior design was very luxurious and I love the alcoves!?The music was an amazing mix of contemporary songs with a few hits from the 90s and other classics. It really got the crowd going!?But the real winner for Zenna has to be its incredible cocktail list. I mean it has to be the best cocktail menu in london. Its so clever, the mixologist has used saffron, sage, cardamon, chilli, and coriander flavours in various drinks to create something truly unique. I didnt quite fancy the world’s spiciest cocktail tho!
Ben J on Yelp
Zenna was a pretty cool venue – my friend and I tried the “World’s Spiciest Cocktail” and agreed it was probably true to its name, although we didn’t finish it. Give it a shot next time you’re there if you’re open to ridiculous ideas, just make sure you sign the waiver and use the “fire extinguisher”!?
Mark S on Yelp
Elite events are always good, nay, great. Thus a good time is always the expectation. This expectation was still bested, somehow, on Wednesday, as this party was as good as they come.
Fancy dress should be required for every party. Great venue, good deejay, tasty snacks, fine company- all the ingredients were there.
The only downside is that the drinks were a little too good and a little too free. Not actually bad things, but, well… anyways, I was quite a fan of the gentleman’s tipple.
Can’t wait for the next one…?
Eamon B on Yelp
The end of this night ended with me head-banging to Bohemian Rhapsody….I want to say Thank You to all the elements of the night that allowed me to do that.
Delicious quality cocktails
Wonderful fellow yelpers who equally like to shake their groove thang
A DJ who was ON IT with the tunes
A great venue with space to boogie
And a great crew behind the scenes making sure everything was just perfect for us.?
Ashley V on Yelp
The bar certainly has a hip vibe with side rooms which can be rented out. This is definitely my type of bar that i would frequent so I’m glad yelp has discovered it for me!
The food:?The nibbles were amazing! I hadn’t eaten all day so I was chasing the servers down like like an animal! The chicken bits were gorgeous! In fact, i could use a handful of those for breakfast right now to soak up some of the booze from last night!
The dancing:?Nothing like giving a few crazy Yelpers dancing their booze off after many very strong gentlemen drinks
The drinks:?The gentlemen drinks were strong, so i had many! ha ha. I also had a unusual margarita when the free drinks were over. Can’t remember the name of it, but it was sweet with salt! YUM!
The balloon:?O yea, I tied a yelp balloon to my coat and took a ride home. On the tube, the tube winds made my yelp ballon hit the person next to me in the face several times. I thought it was funny as hell!?
Jennifer S on Yelp
Oh what a Night!…. and for a Wednesday as well!
Well the drinks… the strong one was strong bwoy! I had to put that one down. I love the cocktail with the coriander in it, what a sweet, refreshing drink. They served another drink, at the end which was peachy and that was lovely.
The chicken, bits were the best..just great!
Dan Thomson, cared to show us how a cocktail was made and how they specialise in putting Indian spices in their drinks, to honest I was not listining I was distracted by ones beauty.
Arrh man! that DJ was sooooo on point!, their I was dancing in my purple ballerina skirt with a straw like hat, courtesy of Bazaar, who where were lovely by the way. And you had this DJ playing Garage (as I requested) pop,dance and a few 90′s jams. I was dancing like, crazy! The music made the night for me.
Omoraka O on Yelp
There was so much going on Last night!
We had costumes! A DJ and decent dance space. Corners to hide or to take a break.
Interesting drinks… Alcoholic Mango Lassis! Brilliant! Lychee Daiquiri and this Strong Gentleman’s drink. Woo Have mercy. I had to blend mine together to weaken it a bit for me. But they were uniquely enjoyable on their own. =)
I walked in with a black dress and our costumer had me put on this hot pink tassled number. Not really my taste but why not? I was channeling Tina Turner! Later on that night I ran into Madonna’s pointy bra and bumped into an amazing Britney Spears look a like and a few that were out there! Great job with the costumes! So much fun!
Kevin L. Thanks for playing bouncer and watching the door a night. What a good sport!
Lizzie, thanks for putting it all together!
Dan T. thank you for being a gracious host. The mixology lesson was enjoyable! Poor guy, You worked so hard last night!? SYOY!?
Gina K on Yelp
What a fabulous night, i’d even go to say one of the best events to date!
wonderful atmosphere, loved the dressing up theme! I felt so axel in my leather waistcoat and a little bit gaga with the bow in me hair…oh so chic!
amazing cocktails that were well yum. Tasty treats to dine on too, although sadly i didn’t get many as daffy, sorry mark?! got there first too many times!!
and the DJ…? well what can i say he’s so doing my 30th – banging tunes LOVED the garage section 
reeeewind?
Huddy H on Yelp
I did a thing with Coriander Lychee Daiquiris at Zenna’s last night. Yes, I made love with Coriander Lychee Daiquiris for two hours (and abit) after sipping on 3 glasses he gave me a massive sugar rush. Halfway through the night I ended up cheating on him with Music..yes once the music started playing that was it for me…non-stop dancing from start to finish!
The venue was perfect for holding such a great event…fantastic atmosphere, lush decor, delicious cocktails, rich nibbles and great yelpers.
Bravo guys, thanks for hosting a great event!?
Chelle R on Yelp
Coriander is my favorite spice and cocktails are my favorite beverage, together they rock my world. I downed the Coriander Lychee Daiquiris (weren’t they more like martinis? Anyhow…) like they were juice. Even my ‘I hate the taste of alcohol’ husband enjoyed a couple.
The nibbles were pretty memorable as well. Definitely dreaming about those chicken and potatoes bites. So damn spicy. So damn perfect, I say.
Melizza R on Yelp
Fantastic night was had here. I was so luck to get an invite and boy am I glad I did…
I am a big fan of deep and secret looking cocktail bars and this place delivers in great style. There are the lovely little alcoves, which I believe can be booked for private events, so that’s something that would drag me back here again.
We had two cocktail samples on the go here – a DELICIOUS Lychee and Coriander (I think coriander maybe my favourite herb of all time) and the Gentlemen’s Tipple (which was considerably more than a tipple). There were other fantastic looking creations being made during the evening as well.?The DJ did pick some classic dance tunes though and I ended up dancing away to it on the floor.
All in all I will be going there again. Definitely a lovely spot for the girls night out, with the gorgeous manager Dan to mix and chat too. ?
?Irene O on Yelp
Hit me with your DJ fingers of steal, the DJ was on fire.?To start with the dressing up rail under the archway was great, we got involved until the gold Lamé shirt became just that little too hot.
The bar looked well stocked and the drinks we tried were not for the faint hearted. The lady lychee/coriander cocktail was fresh and sweet but the gentleman’s was so super strong my hand did something it’s not done for a long time, I lowered thee and left it on the bar…………
The nibbles we tried were super tasty and I would love to come back sometime for dinner wot wot.
But to top it off, the tunes which were booming out made mine and the girls night. Thank you and we’re booking you for our mates 30th
Thankyouplease X?
Molly P on Yelp
hot. drinks were flowing and crowd was a party group looking fresh in their threads provided by bazaar bazaar. fantastic mid-week event!
Amy A on Yelp
Press on Zenna Bar
World’s Best Bars
The dim-lit bar is reached down a stylish staircase lined with candles and floating flowers. The room itself is attractive, cool and blue-walled, with plenty of cosy nooks. The cocktail menu combines classic drinks with subtle, and not so subtle, spicing. The coriander and lychee daiquiri is a fragrant twist on a familiar drink. The Chocolate Orange Martini contains a clever hint of chilli while the Iliana, the world’s spiciest cocktail – is served with a gin cooler for those brave enough to try it. They also serve a menu of lassis, Indian yogurt-based drinks, in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions. A beautiful place with some great cocktails.
Daily Candy
Indulge hidden hedonistic tendencies at Zenna — the new Indian cocktail bar in Soho. Dan Thomson has transformed the basement space into a low-lit after-hours den filled with plenty of alcoves, oriental rugs and bronzed statues.
Spicy cocktails include an extra-hot Indian Bloody Mary, Bee Sting (honey vodka and jalapeno) and Illiana (spiced rum, orange and a hot sauce so deadly you have to sign a waiver). We recommend impressing your date by ordering from the lassi bar, with a variety of traditional yoghurt-based concoctions infused with alcohol and served with fruit or salt and spices.
Don’t want to drink on an empty stomach? Snack on lentil patties with coriander and green chilli, minced lamb skewers, marinated prawns or spicy potato dumplings from The Red Fort restaurant upstairs.
Bar Magazine
With so much competition in the West End, the Red Fort restaurant’s owner Amin Ali has decided to rethink the concept and teamed up with mixologist Dan Thomson to create “London’s first Indian cocktail bar”, Zenna. The name relates to the restaurant above, inspired by the “zenana”, or women’s quarters, in the Red Fort palace in Delhi, but Dan plans to position the bar as a stand-alone destination for cocktails.
The original interior by Russell Sparke of RSD Interiors has been given a few tweaks such as low warm lighting to create a chilled luxurious atmosphere. To reach the bar, you walk down steps lined with bronze water vessels filled with floating flowers and twinkling candles. Zenna has azure blue walls, plush blue velvet stools and silk-upholstered gold chairs, with Italian tiles and oriental rugs on the floor. To the left of the bar, which is covered in shimmering metallic discs, are two intimate alcoves with exposed brickwork.
Dan has created a new cocktail menu that includes drinks made with Indian ingredients to reflect the cuisine upstairs. Look out for fresh chilli, chai, saffron, coriander and mango as well as Indian single malt whisky Amrut. “We wanted to create a contemporary bar that was still true to its Indian heritage and provide a chic and welcoming space in the midst of Soho,” Dan explains.
A “spiced cocktail list” includes what must be “the world’s spiciest cocktail” – the fiery Illiana, which is made with Chairman’s Reserve Spiced rum, orange curaçao, orgeat almond syrup, lime juice and orange juice plus a drop of a “secret” chilli sauce. It comes with a “fire extinguisher” of Bombay Sapphire gin, lemon and soda water, served in a small soda siphon with its own glass. Customers must sign a waiver before drinking it. I managed to get about halfway through the drink, served in a lowball glass, before having to give up. It is a flavoursome cocktail until the chilli kicks in and blitzes the taste.
In the meantime, my friends and I sampled a few of the other cocktails on the list. The Chocolate Orange Martini is a delicious combination of Stolichnaya vodka, Cointreau, Mozart chocolate liqueur and a dash of fresh chilli. There are also exotic twists on the classics such as a Chai Tea Martini, a Coriander and Lychee Daiquiri, a Raspberry and Mango Margarita, a Pineapple and Sage Mojito and an Elderflower and Saffron Collins. The list also includes Dan’s cocktail that won him the Spirit of Speyside cocktail competition a year ago – a mix of a Speyside whisky, amaretto, cinnamon syrup, lemon juice and fresh pear juice. Other spiced cocktails include The Red Fort cocktail made with Bombay Sapphire, fresh apple juice, orange juice, strawberry puree, orgeat and hot chillis.
Dan has also managed to create alcoholic lassis despite the challenge of mixing a yogurt-based drink with alcohol. The whole list of non-alcoholic lassis can be given an extra pick-me-up, such as adding Saffron Gin to a mango lassi or Zubrowka and crème de banane liqueur to a banana lassi. Snacks and canapés are also available, cooked to order in The Red Fort’s kitchen under head chef Azadur Rahman. “Zenna is London’s first-ever Indian cocktail bar, and the carefully thought-through flavours, recipes and ingredients used in the drinks list as well as the authentic canapés make it a unique offering in the capital,” Dan says. He has bold ambitions for Zenna and, while it will be a challenge for a small bar underneath a restaurant to make its mark, he has all the right ingredients.
Fluid London
The bar is swarming and has some busy barmen, furiously making endless cocktails and rushing about to try and maintain the thirsty press. I feel a bit sorry for them as there are about 40 people down here and only four barmen. I like that there are many bottles of Bombay Sapphire on display behind the bar. It makes me want to pinch one so that I can make my own drink, but I resist.
My friend returns with two cocktails; The Red Fort (named after the restaurant upstairs) and the House Nectar. It took her about twenty minutes to get these colourful concoctions and I feel slightly guilty for demanding them, but not guilty enough to let her know. The pink coloured Red Fort is a bit unusual as it contains chillies, but thoroughly enjoyable nonetheless, whereas the House Nectar is essentially Um Bongo with alcohol… brilliant!
Juli B
With azure blue walls, gold silk-upholstered chairs, oriental rugs and italian tiling, there’s nothing understated about london’s latest lounge, Zenna. you might have to find your center elsewhere, like in the cocktails – coriander and lychee daiquiris – and the north indian fare. this may not be the place to go for feng shui realignment or soul searching, but the hera jhinga (spicy battered prawns) will certainly leave your stomach sated.
Square Meal
A tweaked kingfisher-blue interior, a more varied cocktail offering & a trio of canapé selections are the new deal at Zenna – formerly Akbar, the Red Fort’s cellar bar. The £20 tiffin brings five tasters of the restaurant’s well-executed Indian cooking: lamb kebab, spinach & fenugreek patties, spicy fish fillet, chilli-crumbed chicken & prawns in batter. To drink, apricot brandy & vodka chai tea martini hits the spot, or you can go long with ginto (a classic G&T ‘ice & a slice’ combo freshened up with mint). Prices won’t take your breath away, but Illiana – billed as ‘the world’s spiciest cocktail’ – might leave you gasping, its USP is just one drop of an essence so hot that the whole liquid infernal comes with its own ‘fire extinguisher’ (a siphon of gin, lemon & soda).
Eat Out Magazine
The bar’s drinks list reflects the Indian décor with a cocktail menu using cardamom, lemongrass, ginger and sweet spices among other ingredients.
Highlights include coriander & lychee daiquiri with chairman’s reserve rum, fresh Lime, lychee juice and coriander leaves and a chai tea martini made with fresh chai, stolinaycha vodka and apricot brandy.
The Lassi Menu, which will be available throughout the day as well as in the evening, is another feature of Zenna, and is the first ever lassi bar in London. Lassis are fresh yoghurt drinks enjoyed throughout India, and are served sweet with fruit or sugars, or savoury with salt or spices.
The menu at Zenna includes a range of lassis blended to order from banana, coconut, mango ginger & lemongrass and even a superfruits option with blueberries, pomegranate, raspberry and acai. For those who like to detox / retox, all lassis can be blended as alcoholic versions on request.
View London
Underneath a chic Indian restaurant (The Red Fort), the basement bar has elements of Asian influence combined with a contemporary London look. Black and white pictures, delicate candles and floating flowers set an intimate mood. Azure blue walls, gleaming tiles and the sleek bar covered in silver discs add a modern twist to the otherwise basic bar, with a few carefully placed alcoves for seating.
The refreshing variations of classics such as the coriander and lychee daiquiri or the pineapple and sage mojito smell divine and taste fresh with well-balanced sweet and sour flavours. However the star of the menu has to be the Iliana cocktail, dubbed as the world’s spiciest cocktail. It is spicy, really spicy, and is served with a gin fizz cooler.
The bar food in Zenna is lots of delicious, well cooked meat kebabs, vegetables and fish dishes. The platter is a good sharing option, and all of the spices are intense and powerful, but they complement the cocktails well, particularly the chocolate orange martini which itself contains the kick of fresh chilli.
If you like proper Indian cuisine, as well as exciting new cocktails, then Zenna effectively fuses the best of both to create a range of delectable cocktails in the heart of Soho.
Brummell Magazine
Situated below one of London’s few fine dining Indian restaurants, The Red Fort on Dean Street, Zenna incorporates Indian heat and spices into gourmet cocktails with infused spirits, fresh herbs and a secret recipe chilli potion.
Chic and inviting, the bar benefits from a vaulted roof with discreet low-lit alcoves. The Red Fort kitchen provides a cooked-to-order bar menu, which means after-work drinks just got a whole lot more interesting. Stars of the cocktail menu include, at the mildest end of the spice spectrum, the Garden Martini, a refreshing mix of Bombay Sapphire gin, mint, lime and apple juice, and the lightly spiced Bee Sting, with honey vodka, peach purée and jalepeño peppers.
For thrill seekers and masochists alike, there is the Illiana, enticingly titled the world’s spiciest cocktail. Drinkers are required to sign a waiver before ordering this fiery thirst-quencher, and it is thoughtfully accompanied by a Zenna fire extinguisher – a siphon containing gin, soda water and a twist of lemon.
There are some reinvented classics on offer, too, including a pineapple and sage mojito, an Indian whisky sour (flavoured with cardamon) and the Gentleman’s Tipple, which is guaranteed to put hairs on your chest. If you’re looking for something with a little less punch, Zenna is also home to London’s first ever lassi bar, serving traditional fresh yogurt drinks flavoured with fruits, sugars and spices. Fat-free and probiotic, they are a virtuous choice – although less so if you opt for a shot of gin in yours.
London Eating
Zenna Bar is a chic Indian cocktail bar underneath The Red Fort on Dean Street in Soho. It’s an opulent space with azure blue walls, gold silk chairs and a bar entirely covered in shimmering metallic discs. The drinks list includes traditional lassis and Indian-inspired cocktails like the Illiana – a spicy tipple that comes with its own ‘Fire Extinguisher’ soda siphon. The Red Fort above will provide bar snacks like chicken tikka and crispy prawns.
Pink Paper
Zenna Bar is London’s premier, and perhaps only, Indian cocktail bar.
The blue colour scheme, velvet stools and leather sofas give the whole setting a very nice feel.
That said, perhaps this was done to enhance the Indian theme that pervades the menu. Featuring the world’s hottest cocktail, this is definitely a place for people who like it hot – particularly as drinkers must sign a waiver upon ordering.
Likewise, the food – which is cooked to order – was light yet substantial, spiced and lean. Interestingly, the bar even has a Lassi Menu, which features fresh yoghurt drinks typically enjoyed throughout India. They’re meant to be great for those who like to detox, but fortunately alcohol versions are available.
And if all else fails, there’s a dance-floor – and if the music is always as good as it was last night we can see Zenna being a big success.
Thrill List
Zenna is “London’s first Indian cocktail bar”, serving up exotic mixed beverages in a plush, low-lit space with velvety alcove seating, scattered Oriental rugs, and a shimmering metallic bar, but not a shimmering Metallica bar, because even bartenders don’t want to hear about that many problems. Spicy booze starts out relatively unintimidating with the Bee Sting Martini (honey vodka/liqueur, lemon, mild chilies & peach liqueur/puree), then gets more challenging with the apple/ orange/ strawberry/ almond syrup/ gin/ hot chili Red Fort, before moving in for the kill with the “world’s spiciest cocktail”, the Golden Dragon: rum, orange Curacao, almond syrup, lime, orange, and a single drop of secret chilli sauce, served with a gin & soda “fire extinguisher” — an alkie safety device often used on Bon (Scott) Fire Night. Less tongue-atomizing numbers leap from a whiskey sour made with Indian single-malt and cardamom, to the vodka & apricot brandy Chai Tea Martini, to a Punjabi-style Mango Lassi made with saffron gin, guaranteeing your girlfriend’ll be left to satisfy herself with an electrical banana.
For non-liquid nourishment, there’s a trio of canape menus featuring the likes of Murgh tikka corn-fed chicken, Jhinga hariyala marinated king prawns w/ mint & coriander, and Devon lamb seekh kebabs — which, combined with all that alcohol, will ensure the only thing going nuclear is you.
Who’s Jack
Tucked beneath The Red Fort on Dean Street is a new hot cocktail bar called Zenna. A stylish, dimly lit bar with luxurious furnishings: so far, so standard. But this place has a couple of twists up its sleeve.
Zenna is an Indian themed cocktail bar and has unique cocktail menu to reflect this, using spices such as cardamom, lemongrass and ginger.
The flagship drink is a rather spectacular affair called the Illiana. Named after the mythological Indian golden dragon, it apparently holds the title of the ‘world’s hottest cocktail’.Zenna say the cocktail is so spicy that guests must sign a waiver on ordering, and it comes with its very own Fire Extinguisher accompaniment, a soda siphon containing ice cold Bombay Sapphire Gin, Lemon and Soda water. I didn’t get to try that one sadly, but I did experience another of their fiery cocktails called The Red Fort and I can confirm they are eye-watering!
Zenna are also launching a Lassi menu, these are zero-fat probiotic yoghurt drinks and will be blended alcoholic or non-alcoholic as you desire.
So the cocktails should be a draw but how was everything else? Well the bar food is absolutely delicious as they have access to Red Fort’s kitchens above and they are made to order. As far as music goes the launch has some pretty hilarious 90’s tracks playing which contributed to a great atmosphere. Zenna’s Dan Thomson was full of enthusiasm, and I hope to be back soon to take on some more of the spicy cocktails.
The Handbook
Descend a stairway lined with bronze water vessels filled with floating flowers and twinkling candles and prepare for a zenned out experience. We’re talking azure blue walls, plush blue velvet stools, silk-upholstered gold chairs, Italian tiles and Oriental rugs with a centrepiece bar entirely covered in shimmering metallic discs. An exotic cocktail list choc full of cardamom, lemongrass and ginger features the Coriander & Lychee Daquiri with Chairman’s Reserve Rum, fresh lime, lychee juice & coriander leaves; Chai Tea Martini made with fresh Stolichnaya Vodka & apricot brandy and Spiced Chocolate Orange Martini with cointreau, vodka & chocolate liqueur.
Ever had a chilli eating competition? Well Zenna’s Illiana could be right up your street. Named after the mythological Indian golden dragon, it claims the title of world’s hottest cocktail and contains Chairman’s Reserve spiced rum, orange curacao, almond syrup, lime & orange juice a drop of the secret-ingredient chilli potion. It even comes with its own waiver form and Fire Extinguisher (gin & soda siphon) on the side.
Big Hospitality
The bar’s drinks list features a cocktail menu that uses ingredients such as cardamom, lemongrass, ginger and sweet spices.
Highlights include coriander & lychee daquiri with chairman’s reserve rum, fresh Lime, lychee juice and coriander leaves and a chai tea martini made with fresh chai, stolinaycha vodka and apricot brandy. A Lassi menu will also be available at the new venue.
Dan Thomson of Zenna, said: “We wanted to create a contemporary bar that was still true to its Indian heritage and provide a chic and welcoming space in the midst of Soho.
“Zenna Bar is London’s first ever Indian cocktail bar and the carefully thought through flavours, recipes and ingredients used in the drinks list, as well as the authentic canapés make it a unique offering in the capital.”
London is Cool
London’s latest cocktail bar has a very cool entrance. The steps leading down to the bar are lined with bronze water vessels filled with floating flowers and candles. It was a good start.
When I walk into a bar, first impressions are what counts and if I don’t like the vibe or the look of a place I will walk out, whether I’m paying for the drinks or not. And I can safely say that I was impressed with what greeted me. The subdued lighting, Italian tiled floor, exotic blue walls and layout of the bar with the different alcoves and areas make for a relaxed place to enjoy a few drinks.
I wasn’t just there to admire the fixtures and fittings or the ambiance of the place, and if the cocktails weren’t going to cut it, it would all be rather pointless. However I’m glad to say that the Zenna cocktail menu, which is a mixture of classic cocktails with an Indian twist does cut the mustard, as the saying goes.
I personally sampled the House Nectar, Garden Martini and The Red Fort cocktails, all of which were very tasty and full of flavour. I must admit I was a bit dubious about The Red Fort to begin with, which is the second spiciest cocktail on their list, but it grew on me so much that I had to have a second one. From what I have tasted so far Indian cocktails are definitely worth exploring.
I also sampled some snacks and canapés which I can safely say were absolutely delicious. The food menu which has been created to compliment the drinks menu is cooked to order in the Red Fort Restaurant upstairs.
I personally feel that Zenna Bar is a cool, laid back and very chic bar to head to for pre/after meal drinks, to take a hot date or for a few relaxed drinks before you hit a club. And as far as I’m aware there will be a DJ playing some tunes at the weekends. And to cap it all off Dan Thomson seems to be guy that knows how to run a good bar and that is something that is always good to see…
London Appetizer
Decorated with Italian tiles, soft leather and Oriental rugs, Zenna has a stylish and relaxed feel with a stunning bar entirely covered in shimmering metallic discs as the centrepiece. Low, warm lighting and discreet alcoves with exposed brickwork make it the perfect location for an intimate drink or any kind of event, being able to accommodate up to 120 people.
Zenna’s drinks list reflects the exotic Indian décor with a unique cocktail menu using cardamom, lemongrass, ginger and sweet spices among other ingredients. Highlights include a refreshing Coriander & Lychee Daquiri with Chairman’s Reserve Rum, Fresh Lime, Lychee Juice and Coriander Leaves and a Chai Tea Martini made with fresh Chai, Stolinaycha Vodka and Apricot Brandy.
The menu also features a unique Spiced Cocktail List, ranging from refreshing (the Mint, Lime, Apple and Elderflower Garden Martini) and lightly spiced (the Cointreau, Vodka and Chocolate Liqueur Spiced Chocolate Orange Martini) right through to incredibly spicy drinks. Only the very brave, however, need try the Illiana. Named after the mythological Indian golden dragon, it holds the title of the ‘world’s hottest cocktail’ and is a potent blend of Chairman’s Reserve Spiced Rum, Orange Curacao, Almond syrup, Lime and Orange juice with just one drop of the secret chilli potion. This cocktail is so spicy that guests must sign a waiver on ordering and it comes with its very own Fire Extinguisher accompaniment, a soda siphon containing ice cold Bombay Sapphire Gin, Lemon and Soda water to help guests fan the flames after drinking.
The Lassi Menu, which will be available throughout the day as well as in the evening, is another unique feature of Zenna, and is the first ever lassi bar in London. Lassis are fresh yoghurt drinks enjoyed throughout India, and are served sweet with fruit or sugars, or savoury with salt or spices. Zero-fat and probiotic, they are a great fresh alternative to other smoothies and soft drinks. The menu at Zenna includes a range of lassis blended to order from Banana, Coconut, Mango Ginger & Lemongrass and even a Superfruits option with blueberries, pomegranate, raspberry and acai. For those who like to detox / retox, all lassis can be blended as alcoholic versions on request.
TNT Magazine
Zenna offers a truly unique selection of concoctions, many of which are inspired by Indian ingredients, fused with some of the highest quality booze, all put together with seriously impressive expertise. Whether you’re into sweet, sour or even spicy, you’ll find a tipple here.
Bill please: Most of the cocktails are about £7.
Verdict: If you’re interested in booze and have a taste for something a little bit different, then Zenna is an absolute must. Soho is a great area for late-nights drinks anyway, and this is a place you’ll find yourself coming back to regularly. Try it – you won’t be disappointed.
5/5
- Tom Sturrock
Itchy London
Zenna, the hot new, Indian themed cocktail bar on Dean Street in the heart of Soho has already gained itself a well deserved reputation for its interesting and exotic cocktails. The bar is tucked away down a candle-lined set of stairs on Dean Street and is sufficiently secreted away from the eyes of the tourists bustling through the busy drinking Mecca to provide a welcome respite from the area’s crowded pubs and bars.
The cocktail menu, all dreamt up by cocktail guru Dan Thomson, is a wonder to behold. There is quite literally something for everyone from the sweet and way too moreish House Nectar – made using the bar’s secret recipe – to the Revitalise Caipirinhas concocted from detoxifying ingredients like Goji berries and aloe vera juice to ensure that you are detoxing whilst getting a little tipsy. Surely that makes the cocktail good for you, right?
Not for the fainthearted is The Iliana, this cocktail is the world’s spiciest, and is served up with a handy little fire extinguisher on the side. The staff make you sign a waiver before you take your first sip and trust us, it’s totally necessary. Put any curry in front of us and we’lll tackle it head-on, but annoyingly The Iliana was something of a challenge. Be warned, this is not a gimmick – it’s seriously spicy.
Other delights from the menu included the Coriander and Lychee Daiquiri, which was fresh, aromatic and delicious. This one will be our weapon of choice when we return to Zenna in the not too distant future. The Garden Martini – made from Bombay Sapphire, mint, lime, cucumber, elderflower and apple juice – was beautiful, and be sure to try one of their alcoholic lassis (especially if you have braved The Illiana). We would recommend the coconut or the mango variety. Both of which were delightful.
As well as the impressive selection of cocktails, the bar is understated, intimate and provides a great little spot for an after work drink or for a more intimate date. No trip to Zenna would be complete without sampling the wonders of the Indian sharing platter – we feasted on tender, wonderfully marinated pieces of melt in your mouth chicken, fat and juicy prawns and balls of beautifully seasoned falafel. Just what you need to soak up those cocktails.
Amy Baker
Fluid London
Dan Thomson of Zenna Bar and skilled mixologist, seated Holly and I at the sleek looking bar. Other revelers happy – a mix of couples enjoying the dim lighting and secluded booths and men in suits enjoying spending the money they’d spent the last 9 hours earning – Dan started explaining Zenna’sunique cocktail menu.
The cocktails – which Dan himself concocted – are all inspired by, and use, Indian ingredients. Masala Mojito, I hear you ask? Well no, thank God. The influences are subtler than that, aided by Dan’s travels through India and his exposure to the food, drink and people of the land. The menu reads like a journey too, each page has a feel, a theme, an aspect of a certain place or spice.
Page 1:
House Nectar – Zenna’s secret house recipe. Whatever the secret is, I want to know it.
Coriander and Lychee Daiquiri – Chairmans Reserve Rum, Lychee Juice, fresh lime and Coriander. Yes, we too were sceptical at first but the coriander is just an initial hint, to the nose more than the taste buds, it’s the Lychee that wins out and has the lasting taste.
Page2:
Garden Martini – Bombay Sapphire Gin, mint, lime, apple, cucumber, Elderflower cordial and apple juice. Imagine drinking grass. Imagine drinking grass and enjoying it. That’s the Garden Martini.
Vita – Lemongrass infused Vodka, raspberry puree, Chambord, fresh lemon and Lychee juice with a dash of soda. Holly hardly spoke to me whilst drinking this. Lost to Vodka, it’s how many a sad family tale ends.
Page3: Zenna signature Spicy Cocktails:
Bee Sting – Honey Vodka, Honey Liqueur, lemon juice, Jalepeno peppers, peach liqueur, white peach puree. Probably the best ‘spicy cocktail’ to try if you the type of person who orders a Korma. The sweetness of the honey conquers the heat of the Jalapeno’s but the combination is shockingly good.
Illiana (The Golden Dragon) – Billed as the worlds spiciest cocktail, I was made to sign a waiver form before drinking this cocktail which comes served with a fire extinguisher. On taking a sip of this man-killer made from Chairmans spiced rum, orange Curacao, Orgeat syrup, lime juice, orange juice, and a drop of secret spicy sauce, my throat constricted, my hands grasped the side of the bar, my eyes watered and my face flushed.
Page 4, Lassis, served alcoholic or non alcoholic:
Banana Lassi (alcoholic, obviously) – fresh yoghurt blended with banana, banana syrup, Zubrowka Vodka and Creme de Banane. Smooth, creamy and refreshing, a saving treat Captain Banana himself would recommend to save the day and my burning mouth.
Tired of the standard, run-of-the-mill cocktail? Try Zenna Bar.
Cocktail Lovers
First Things First
The difference now is the powers that be have cleverly marketed it as London’s first Indian cocktail bar, run by Dan Thomson who’s upped the ante and created a stunning drinks list that everyone should try. It might be a small bar but Dan Thomson has big plans for Zenna.
The Signature
The hottest cocktail in the world.
There’s the House Nectar, a secret recipe which has been formulated to please 99% of palates (well, there’s always going to be that difficult 1%…) As this has been concocted for people who don’t know what to order on the menu, Ms S gives it a miss and opts for the Coriander & Lychee Martini (Chairman’s Reserve rum, lychee juice, fresh lime and coriander) instead. The first thing that hits is the green, crisp freshness of the coriander but then it dissipates, making room for some lychee sweetness, before reappearing again at the end to remind you just how good it is in a glass. It’s one of those drinks that actually tastes clever: everyone knows how overpowering coriander can be but here it plays nicely, allowing the other ingredients to get a chance to shine. The presentation is equally delightful with its cloudy green colour, frothy white head and simple coriander leaf garnish.
The Classic
It’s not too surprising, given the Indian connection, that the recommendation from Dan for Mr G’s martini is Saffron Gin. Served in a very elegant glass, it has a fantastic colour (saffron obviously) and a large orange twist completes an elegant look. It has an appealing orange aroma and feels rounded in the mouth. There’s a refreshing tonic-like dryness up front, which then gives way to hints of sweetness and a suggestion of liquorice, before slipping into a gentle finish. An ideal pre-dinner martini for Indian dining.
TCL Choice
Although Ms S decides it would be rude not to try something from the spicy part of the menu, she doesn’t want to go too crazy on the chilli-action. So she opts for the Bee Sting (honey vodka, honey liqueur, lemon juice, jalepeno peppers, peach liqueur and white peach puree), which just stops short of the being mildest ‘spicy’ drink of the list. That said, there’s still a kick from the jalepeno but the honey vodka tempers the heat nicely.
There is something about its name, Gentleman’s Tipple (Martell XO Cognac, The King’s Ginger Liqueur and dash of orange bitters) that Mr G finds hard to resist. But it turns out to be much more than just a cheeky handle. It’s a rocks drink served in a handsome retro glass with big cubes of ice and a large orange twist. It not only looks good, it tastes absolutely beautiful. Preceded with a subtle enough aroma the drink is packed with flavour and has an amazing depth – the more it’s sipped the more it delivers. A truly delicious cocktail and one that has something about it that feels like a real grown up drink.
And To Eat?
As you’d expect, the bar menu features a tempting selection of Indian light bites, including pocha hera jingha (marinated prawns, £6), karara murgh (spicy chicken with curry leaf, £8) and murgh tikka (spicy corn-fed chicken from the tandoor, £8). If there are a few of you, go for the Zenna Platter at £20 with a selection of all the featured dishes.
What’s The Damage?
£6-£10. The super-hot Illiana with its fire extinguisher is priced at £15.
Look Out For
The alcoholic lassis at lunchtime, also for tea totallers out there, all drinks on the menu can be made in non-alcoholic versions.
Ms S says:
The dim lighting and candle action makes Zenna a good spot for dates, post-work drinks or pre-clubbing drinks. Book one of the alcoves if you’re in a crowd.
Mr G says:
There’s plenty about the menu (including an element of seasonality) which certainly invites going back. And if you’re feeling brave try the Illiana (The Golden Dragon). Billed as the “World’s Spiciest Cocktail” it’s not just about heat it is actually quite tasty. But it is very, very hot.
Roll On Friday
The latest cocktail bar innovation – Zenna, the first Indian cocktail bar in London.
The bar itself is comfortable den with pockets for snuggling encouraged by the romantic lighting. In short, it’s a fantastic place for impressing that date with a taste for something pricey and different. Actually, the spicy and fragrant bar snacks might not be conducive to snogging… even the drinks are savory at times.
The range of cocktails are impressive in range and details – with non-alcoholic or premium spirit versions offered for every choice. We highly recommend the Garden Martini, which is very refreshing and respectable – it even contains a little elderflower cordial. It is at the other end of the spectrum of the terrifying ‘Illiana’ (aka The Golden Dragon) which proclaims itself the world’s spiciest cocktail – though it contains only ‘one drop of Secret Spicy Sauce’… it comes with a chaser to act as a fire extinguisher… oh and you have to sign a waiver form in order to drink it.
Aside from the traditional cocktails (many of them infused with various spices for an Indian effect), you can get lassis – salty or sweet, alcoholic or not. A yoghurt based savoury cocktail? The world has changed – right before our very eyes.
Company Magazine
Indulge hidden hedonistic tendencies at Zenna — the new Indian cocktail bar in Soho. Dan Thomson has transformed the basement space into a low-lit after-hours den filled with plenty of alcoves, oriental rugs and bronzed statues. The subdued lighting, Italian tiled floor, exotic blue walls and layout of the bar with the different alcoves and areas make for a relaxed place to enjoy a few drinks.
Spicy cocktails include an extra-hot Indian Bloody Mary, Bee Sting (honey vodka and jalapeno) and Illiana (spiced rum, orange and a hot sauce so deadly you have to sign a waiver). Company.co.uk recommends impressing your date by ordering from the lassi bar, with a variety of traditional yoghurt-based concoctions infused with alcohol and served with fruit or salt and spices.
The food menu has been created to compliment the drinks menu is cooked to order in the Red Fort Restaurant upstairs.
GoUK
Zenna is a new Indian cocktail bar in Soho, filled with alcoves, oriental rugs, and bronzed statues, a lassi bar, plus spicy cocktails like the extra-hot Indian Bloody Mary, Bee Sting (honey, vodka and jalapeno) and the Illiana, which incorporates a hot sauce so hot those who drink it must first sign a waiver.
OK Magazine
WHEN we were asked to try the spiciest cocktail in the world it didn’t exactly sound like our cup of tea but OK! has never been one to turn down a challenge.
So where would we be jetting off to test the beverage that would no doubt leave us feeling hot hot hot – the Caribbean? Mexico?
Not quite but just as good as…
Situated underneath the famous Red Fort Indian restaurant is the luxurious cocktail bar, which has just launched in the centre of London’s Soho.
The perfect location for care-free spirits who are up for trying anything.
And OK! fit the description perfectly. As we descended down the dimly-lit steps, we we’re greeted by a cloakroom attendant who whisked away our coats.
It may be nippy outside but you won’t be needing those after you sip on this beverage, named the Illiana after a mythical Golden Dragon of India.
The drink comes with a fire extinguisher (a refreshing Bombay Sapphire gin mixer), to put out the flames!
And flames there were literally, as we watched Zenna’s Dan Thomson light up our glass.
And despite him only adding half the usual measure of the secret ingredient (the hottest hot sauce in the world) to our glass, it was still a hefty measure for us ladies.
Still the men further down the bar were slurping away on some much sweeter spiced drinks (and looking on curiously), so we considered ourselves the victors.
After a few more tipples and a swift relocation to the soft leather chair situated in the booths, we head off into the night feeling energised.
Just the zing we needed.
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