Abbey is a fun city restaurant, bar and club situated within a relaxed saunter of Aldgate and Tower Hill stations in the heart of the city.
The slick interior creates a relaxing feel during the day before generating something a bit more lively when the sun goes down. The size of the bar is quite surprising, with three levels including a seated dining area and an entire club situated in the basement. 
The décor is glamorous and chic – chintzy table lamps, dark wooden furniture and hanging chandeliers give the bar an elegant yet casual feel. The tables here are frequently reserved so make sure you book ahead if you plan a visit. The club downstairs is vast and can often be seen heaving with people on Thursday and Friday club nights. Bear in mind that the bar is closed on weekends in true City style.
The Abbey also plays host to a variety of events like Arabian and Brazilian themed nights, Salsa classes and Geek parties. In the hotter months, the music from the bar pumps out onto the street and it seems like most of the clientele are happy to stand outside drinking.
By day Abbey is a place to have a nice lunch and a quiet drink, but after dark it hots up with DJs playing party and modern chart music and it quickly draws a buzzing crowd packed with city workers looking to relax after a long day at work. The Abbey’s excellent location combines with its top food and vibrant atmosphere to make it ideal for stopping by for a bite to eat during the day, and letting your hair down on Friday night alike.
There’s a new menu in force at the Abbey bar, which offers something for everyone. For those wanting a lighter bite, there’s a bar snack menu comprising platters, sandwiches and side plates. The classic platter is recommended for any group wanting a few bits with their beers – mini burgers, fish goujons, potato wedges, spicy sausages and chips for cost £15.71. If you’re at the bar for a proper meal, there’s also a full dinner menu to choose from. The salmon fillet and nicoise salad is £10.50 while the hefty rib-eye steak (28 oz) served with fries and pepper sauce is £14.95.
The Abbey bar has a great selection of drinks available, especially if you want something different in the form of a cocktail – there’s a whole menu devoted especially to these types of tipples. Why not try the Plum Pie Crush – Havana rum, pomegranate, lime juice, crushed ice and a dollop of plum jam – a sweet but satisfying drink that will set you back £6.75. Also recommended is the Spiced Pear Mojito – Absolut Pear vodka, cloudy apple juice, lime and cinnamon (£6.75). Pints are on the expensive side at £5 for a Stella and there’s currently no real ale on tap.
Summary
A great spot for care-free post-work dinner and drinks. Head down at lunchtime for a more chilled experience, or in the evening to dance the night away.
| 30-33 Minories, London, EC3N 1DD | Transport: Tower Hill tube or Tower Gateway DLR |
| Telephone: +44 020 7488 1918 | Open: Mon-Wed 12:00-00:30, Thurs 12:00-2:30, Fri 12:00-4:00, Sat & Sun available for private hire |
| Happy Hour: 17:00-20:00 | Website |
