Criterion Hospitality To Open London’s First 1920s-Themed Rooftop Bar and Restaurant at Iconic 1 Leicester Square

Discover sky-high speakeasy sophistication with this new love letter to London's entertainment legacy

London – 4th April 2025 – A thrilling new era of allure and revelry is about to take centre stage in the heart of London’s entertainment district. Perched atop Hotel Indigo above Leicester Square - the city’s iconic home of red-carpet premieres - 1 Leicester Square Rooftop Bar and Restaurant is set to become the ultimate destination for refined dining, decadent cocktails, and dramatic vistas when it officially opens to the public on 11th April 2025.

This stunning new rooftop concept will grant guests a front-row seat to star-studded film premieres while enjoying panoramic views of The London Eye, The Shard, Nelson’s Column, and beyond. The venue will pay homage to the Roaring Twenties, embracing the era’s signature debauched elegance with a speakeasy-inspired design. The interiors are infused with opulent Art Deco influences, featuring gilded accents, plush velvet seating, geometric patterns, and ambient lighting that evokes the lavish sophistication of the Jazz Age. The new drinks list also reflects this theme, offering a selection of exquisite alcoholic and non-alcoholic libations that capture the spirit of Prohibition-era indulgence.

As the owner-occupier of this legendary property, Criterion Hospitality has reimagined this historic site, which has long been at the heart of London’s nightlife and cultural scene. Previously home to famous music venues and nightclubs before transforming into MTV’s iconic London studios, the space has witnessed decades of entertainment history. Now, Criterion has revived its legacy with a 1920s twist, creating a venue that embodies the spirit of spectacle, excess, and celebration.

Criterion is renowned for its innovative and experiential concepts, including its in-house Zedwell hotel brand, which has its flagship in Piccadilly Circus and plans to scale to 8,500 rooms across the UK by 2028.

“Leicester Square has always been a place of excitement and glamour”, says Halima Aziz, Head of Hotels at Criterion. “1 Leicester Square Rooftop Bar and Restaurant is a tribute to this storied history, creating a sophisticated space where guests can soak in the energy of the West End while enjoying delicious food, luscious cocktails, and glitzy entertainment. Whether you’re watching a film premiere unfold below,  luxuriating in a decadent brunch with friends, or hosting a private soirée, our venue promises an exceptional experience.”

The restaurant’s new menu presents a discerning selection of modern Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with bold and playful flavours designed to delight the senses. Guests can indulge in grilled tiger prawns served with smoky and zesty chimichurri, enjoy the creamy richness of burrata accompanied by tomato, Nocellara olives and pistachio granola, or savour the venue’s signature Skyline Burger, topped with crispy shallots and a tangy relish. For those seeking a hedonistic after-dinner treat, the half-baked skillet cookie with chocolate chunks and vanilla ice cream offers the perfect finish.

At the bar, expert mixologists fuse timeless techniques with inventive flavours. Gatsby’s Garden, a tantalising mix of Brockmans orange gin, Hoxton tropical gin and blood orange soda, offers a citrusy and aromatic experience. The Roaring 20's cocktail combines Cazcabel Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, lemon, chai tea, ginger and agave, creating a vibrant and spiced infusion. Meanwhile, the Prohibition Cuban Crush delivers a seductive blend of Lyre's non-alcoholic spirit, blueberry, lemon, cranberry and almond, bringing a fruity twist to this new speakeasy-style selection.

To celebrate its grand opening, 1 Leicester Square Rooftop Bar and Restaurant is set to introduce an exciting line-up of dining and entertainment experiences, making it London’s most enchanting new rooftop destination. Friday and Saturday nights will come alive with resident DJs, creating an electric atmosphere high above the city. Beginning in May, Saturdays will feature a West End theatre-themed brunch, running from 12:00pm - 5:00pm, where guests can indulge in bottomless Pornstar Martinis and bubbles while soaking up the magic of London’s iconic theatre scene. Sundays from 12:00pm to 4:00pm will offer a more refined experience with a sumptuous afternoon tea. For those heading to a show, a carefully curated two- or three-course pre-theatre menu will provide the perfect prelude to an memorable evening in the West End.

ENDS

KEY CONTACT

Saskia Jiggens

Group Head of Communications and Engagement

saskia.jiggens@criterioncapital.co.uk

VENUE DETAILS

Address: 1 Leicester Square Rooftop Bar and Restaurant, Hotel Indigo, 1 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7NA 

Opening Hours: 

Monday 12:00pm - 11:00pm

Tuesday 12:00pm - 11:00pm

Wednesday 12:00pm -11:00pm

Thursday 12:00pm - 12:00am

Friday 12:00pm - 1:00am

Saturday 12:00pm - 1:00am

Sunday 12:00pm - 10.30pm

Our private dining room can also be hired for breakfast meetings before we open.

Group Bookings: salesmanager@criterionhospitality.com

For more information, please visit www.1leicestersquarerooftop.com or follow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/1leicestersquarerooftop