Simplicity Served: A New Cocktail Ritual at Bar 45

Lifestyle

Bar 45 at the Dorchester's 45 Park Lane present their new Simplicity menu

It’s officially summer, and that can mean only one thing: a new, seasonally inspired cocktail menu from Bar 45 at the storied 45 Park Lane in London.

Sipping a cocktail here isn't just about the drink. It’s an immersive experience. Each creation transports the tastebuds to far-flung, exotic locales, delivering a gastronomic journey set against a backdrop of refined art pieces and ambient lighting that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

Having reviewed many a menu at Bar 45, we’re always in good hands with Enrico Perri and Mario Gualtieri, the talented duo behind the latest launch, The Simplicity cocktail menu. With years of expertise and a clear passion for pushing boundaries, these masters of mixology have created something that goes well beyond your average drink. Their mix of chemistry, creativity and know-how results in a sensory experience is as playful as it is refined.

Launched on 24 April and available throughout the summer, Simplicity invites guests to explore six curated flavour profiles: Crisp, Rich, Umami, Negroni, Rare and Zero. Rather than listing ingredients or technical details, the team encourages guests to follow their flavour instincts and let their senses lead the experience. A short set of questions helps the bar crew tailor the perfect serve to suit your mood, whether that's a cosy date night with a loved one or an evening in London with friends.

Accompanied by some impressive side dishes from Wolfgang Puck’s CUT, we couldn’t wait to see what Enrico and Mario had brought to life this season.

Though elegantly understated in appearance, each cocktail is crafted using advanced, often lesser-known techniques. Greek yoghurt washing, for example, features in the Bacchus Kiss, while sous pression freezing is used in Pick Me Up. These innovative processes enhance flavour and texture without ever overcomplicating the experience.

We started with the We Paloma - a fresh, zesty take on a classic, elevated with a thoughtful twist. Maestro Dobel Diamante Tequila forms the base, balanced by a bright kiwi cordial that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto brings a fragrant, citrusy complexity, while Kaffir Lime Leaf soda layers in subtle herbal notes. Finished with a hit of CO₂ for that crisp, sparkling lift, it’s an invigorating opener that sets the tone for what’s to come.

Next came the Italo Samba, a bold yet surprisingly refined mix of Yaguara Cachaça, tomato and strawberry, and Barolo Chinato Vermouth. We were expecting something overtly savoury, and admittedly approached it with caution, being no great fans of a Bloody Mary, but this was something else entirely. The cachaça lent a grassy, almost sugarcane-like brightness, while the tomato brought subtle umami depth rather than punchy acidity. Strawberry added a gentle sweetness that rounded everything out, and the Barolo Chinato gave the drink a bitter, spiced backbone with hints of clove and dark cherry. The result was a complex, balanced cocktail with layers that kept unfolding and easily our favourite on the menu.

The finale was the Bacchus Kiss, a luxurious blend of Telmont Brut Champagne, Belvedere Vodka, Savoia Orancio and a yoghurt wash infused with passionfruit. Light yet indulgent, the drink offered a silky texture thanks to the yoghurt, which mellowed the vodka and gave the whole serving a creamy softness without any heaviness. The Telmont Champagne added a crisp, citrusy brightness, while the passionfruit brought tropical sharpness, cutting through with just the right amount of zing. A whisper of orange from the Savoia Orancio tied it all together, resulting in a cocktail that felt both refined and quietly playful. It’s the kind you’d return to for a celebratory second round.

Bar snacks included the classic mini Wagyu sliders, prawn spring rolls, and our personal favourite, the spicy tuna tartare cones topped with glistening Beluga Caviar. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of fine drinks or just beginning your cocktail journey, a date night or casual evening at Bar 45 exploring the Simplicity menu will transform the experience into something truly memorable. Each drink is crafted to be both approachable and intriguing, with flavour leading the way. As always, design plays a central role, from the bespoke glassware conceived by Enrico and Mario themselves to the precise, artful presentation of each serve.

We editor-approve the Simplicity menu from Bar 45 this summer.

Located in 45 Park Lane (Dorchester Collection)

Address: 45 Park Ln, London W1K 1PN

Phone: 020 7493 4545

For more information visit Bar 45

Words by Jheanelle Feanny