MODE - Removed from website November 2021 (closed) - Notting Hill, London

Mode has taken over from Supperclub as the premier multi-disciplinary art gallery/bar/club/restaurant in London, and has even chosen the same Acklam Street site to launch what may be the most ambitious nightlife project in the capital. This venue is much darker, moodier and cerebral than its whitewashed predecessor, and it's ineffably cool at that. It operates by bringing in artists and designers to oversee 6-month chapters to ensure that the concept stays fresh. The first chapter has been envisioned by Robin Collings, co-founder of Glastonbury's Shangri-La, who has created a setting inspired by the industrial revolution with art installations created by the likes of Shepard Fairey, Andrew T Cross and the Sixteenth Wagon Arts Group. There's an engaging, eclectic rotation of live performances at Mode, powered by an avant-garde Void soundsystem, one of the best in the city.

On our visit on a Thursday evening, we enjoyed our meal at a candlelit table situated adjacent to an enormous organ, with atmospheric live music performed by a flamenco duet named Javier Molina & Nona Fernandez. For aperitifs, a Gentleman's Sour hit the mark, shaken with Gentleman's Jack, lemon juice, maple syrup, pressed apple and Angostura Bitters.

We had a difficult time leaving Mode, so much so that we closed out the evening there! For a night out with friends or a mysterious, exciting date, Mode receives top marks.