Soho has no shortage of bars competing for attention, but Kamara distinguishes itself through an unusual combination of Mediterranean craft, low lighting and a soundtrack of 1990s hip-hop. Located on Poland Street, the bar sits in one of the busiest parts of central London. Given the constant footfall madnessoutside [review written during the 2026 FIFA World Cup], I was not surprised to find it already lively when we arrived. Dean, the friendly doorman, greeted us warmly before ushering us upstairs into the main space.
Two details immediately caught my attention. The first was the lighting, which is kept deliberately low throughout the bar. There is enough to move around comfortably, but not so much that it disrupts the intimate atmosphere. Combined with the plush interiors, it gives Kamara something of the charm of a private 1950s jazz club.
The second was the music. Commercial 1990s hip-hop played quietly in the background, with familiar tracks from artists including 2Pac and Mobb Deep. Nothing was too aggressive or intrusive. It was simply loud enough to give the room energy without overpowering conversation.
Kamara London’s intimate interior balances terracotta tones, warm timber and
soft lighting with Mediterranean pottery for a warm inviting atmosphere.
The name Kamara refers to ceramic vessels traditionally crafted by artisans around the Mediterranean, sometimes painted with elaborate designs. Similar vessels are displayed behind the bar and across the walls, giving the venue a distinctive visual identity. They add character to the room and make the bar feel more considered than the average Soho cocktail spot.
The menu includes a range of signature cocktails and seasonal specials, alongside an extensive selection of tequilas, gins, whiskies, brandies and vodkas. With so much to choose from, some guidance from the staff was certainly helpful.
I opted for the Plum & Walnuts, a French 75-style drink made with Cognac, fermented plum wine, Kamara house-made plum spirit, muscat wine and bubbles. It was sweet, refreshing and dangerously easy to drink. I enjoyed it enough to order another two, although those who prefer drier or more spirit-forward cocktails may find it slightly too sweet.
L-R:Cognac-based Plum & Walnuts cocktail; Small plates and sharing mezze; and bourbon-based Bread & Butter Old Fashioned.
My girlfriend chose the Bread & Butter Old Fashioned, combining Kamara’s Burnt Butter Spirit, Michter’s Bourbon, Essex Grown Cardamom Leaf, Mahleb Seeds, Carob and Toasted Bread. Richer and more complex than my choice, it offered a good balance between bitterness and sweetness.
A complimentary bowl of olives arrived at just the right moment, helping to satisfy the slight hunger brought on by the cocktails and soak the alcohol.
Alfredo and Alessandro were on hand throughout the evening to guide us through the menu and serve our drinks. Like Dean, they were friendly, approachable and attentive, adding considerably to the pleasantness of the experience.
Kamara works best for a date, a celebratory drink or a late Soho evening when you want plenty of atmosphere without the usual noise and chaos. Although some may find it a little too dark, it is lively, intimate and just unusual enough to stand apart from the many cocktail bars surrounding it. The only slight drawback was that the bar became quite busy, and the low lighting may feel a little too dark for some. Given its location and popularity, booking ahead would be sensible, particularly in the later part of the week.
Author: Papa S Abebrese
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