The cocktail bar at Dukes St. James is an elegant little corner which takes its drinks very seriously. Filling up at the end of every day with gentleman in suits, this spot is ably handled by head barman Alessandro Palazzi. The intimate sort of place where businessmen (or women) meet up to discuss serious topics, usually in twos or threes, this old school bar serves the very best in drinks, whether that's Manhattans made with small batch bourbon or rye whiskey or their legendary martinis. Ironically the spot that inspired Ian Fleming's line 'shaken not stirred' believes in neither shaking nor stirring, but rather classic gin martinis, served in ice cold glasses, with a twist of organic Amalfi lemon. Many a visitor has wanted more than one, but two is the maximum at this bar. As such, you'll need to decide whether you want the classic, and perhaps the Fleming 89 (named for Fleming's Floris cologne), or perhaps the Rose vodka Wild Flower cocktail (made with tonka bean infused vodka, Stoli Elit, chocolate bitters, a frozen Fortnum and Mason rose, vermouth and rose liquer.) Either way, two will do you, each one setting you back £18. Non-drinkers are also welcome as the bartenders flex their muscles to make cucumber infusions and other virgin concoctions. No music is played as that would distract from the intime feel of the place, and singing or shouting after your martinis is vigorously discouraged. Those wanting to learn a bit of the bar's magic can sign up for the Martini Master Class as part of a date, work event, or even as a general excuse for fun. An unforgettable afternoon out, the classes are offered Monday to Friday from 3pm-5pm, cost £95 per person, and groups of 4-8 people can attend each class.

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