South Kensington's prestigious 100 Queen's Gate Hotel, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is introducing an innovative social experience that combines sophisticated mixology with playful competition. The hotel's underground ESQ Cocktail Bar will launch 'Cocktails & Cards' evenings, offering guests a unique blend of expertly crafted drinks and original party games in an elegant setting.
A New Social Experience in Kensington
The concept pairs premium cocktails with a selection of complimentary games designed to create memorable evenings out. This initiative transforms the serene ESQ Bar into a vibrant social hub where guests can enjoy friendly competition alongside beautifully presented beverages. The bar's resident mixologists have created homemade infused spirits that form the foundation of this distinctive offering.
Games and Cocktails Pairings
Guests can choose from six stylish party games, each accompanied by specially created alcoholic or non-alcoholic cocktail options. The games lineup includes:
- Slip It In
- Awkward
- Misheard Music
- Unfiltered Girls Night
- Wonky Doodles
- Rhymes with Duck
Each game features two cocktail pairings, resulting in twelve unique drink creations. Notable examples include:
Spill the G&Tea - Inspired by the Unfiltered Girls Night game, this bright and bubbly cocktail combines gin, elderflower, lemon and tonic water for a refreshing sip that complements the game's theme of bold revelations.
Lyrical Chaos - Paired with the Misheard Music game that tests musical knowledge, this tropical creation blends white rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice and coconut cream for a creamy, unpredictable flavour experience.
No-Proof Quack Splash - Designed for non-drinkers and inspired by the Rhymes with Duck game, this alcohol-free option offers fresh, zesty flavours with honeyed sweetness and a gingery kick.
Atmosphere and Additional Offerings
Located on the lower ground floor of the contemporary 100 Queen's Gate Hotel, ESQ Bar provides a relaxed escape from the outside world. The sophisticated setting offers the perfect atmosphere for guests to unwind while enjoying games and cocktails. The experience is enhanced by a selection of gaming snacks from the 'Nibbles & Small Bites' menu, featuring options such as Corn Skewers with paprika mayo, Mini Sausage Rolls with garlic mayo, and Cod Croquettes with papaya sauce.
Practical Details and Launch Information
The Cards & Cocktails experience launches on Monday 9 February and will be available throughout February, including Valentine's Day. Guests can book a table at ESQ Bar and request the special menu upon arrival. Pricing starts at £12 for non-alcoholic cocktails, with alcoholic options priced accordingly. The nibbles menu offers a selection of three items for £15.
The ESQ Bar at 100 Queen's Gate Hotel is located at 100 Queen's Gate, Kensington, London, SW7 5AG. Opening hours run from 15:00 to 23:00 Sunday through Thursday, and 15:00 to 00:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. This new offering represents an innovative approach to evening entertainment in one of London's most prestigious neighbourhoods, combining social gaming with premium hospitality in a sophisticated underground setting.
