Tyler Zielinkski drops in on one of the bigger London launches at the back end of 2024.
It may not be everybody’s cup of tea, but if you’re an ‘80s kid who grew up on the Goonies, or enjoyed the rum-fuelled expeditions of Captain Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean, then Rhum Tavern might scratch an itch.
The immersive 1,750sq ft rum bar does transport its guests to the belly of a 17th-century pirate ship with its floor-to-ceiling timber interiors, resin bar top with gold cast pirate coins, bespoke glassware – skulls included – and the impressive simulated natural light dispersed through the grated ceilings that’s projected on to the wooden floors.
It’s an atmosphere convincing enough to make guests feel like they’re drinking on a film set; but, alas, it is a bar, and that means the drinks matter too. By London’s standards, they’re fine.
Deciphering the ingredients on the treasure map-styled menu is a challenge with a font size small enough to trouble even those with 20/20 vision.
But the classic Daiquiri or Mai Tai are decent should you want to cut to the chase; and, really, Rhum Tavern – which could have used a more original name – is more about the vibe anyway.
SCORE: 6/10
» 48 Margaret St, London W1W 8SE