MET BAR

When it first opened in 1997, this sultry night time haunt became a byword for cool, answering a sophisticated need for privacy and energy, in a space reserved for hotel guests and members only.

Interiors are clad in decadent red leathers, waiters in custom-made Armani. Bar staff - called 'mixologists' at the Met - create bespoke Martinis while headline DJs spin London's lounge sounds.

From the early evening, until 2.30am, graze on fresh crab and papaya tian with coriander oil or aromatic duck pancakes with Hoi Sin sauce, all featured on the Met Bar Snack menu.