Acclaimed speakeasy celebrates its 20th in style

For two decades, Lounge Bohemia founder and mixologist Paul Tvaroh has turned cocktails into miniature works of art, combining unexpected textures, inventive techniques and theatrical presentations. Now, the innovative London speakeasy is marking its 20th anniversary with a two-month series of 20-course cocktail tastings. Running November 2 to December 23, the Anniversary Sessions put Tvaroh himself behind the bar for a celebration of his pioneering approach to mixology.

“For us, this is a chance to look back and reflect on everything we’ve learned in the last 20 years and also an opportunity to showcase techniques and methods we wouldn’t be able to do on a full capacity night,” Tvaroh told LOST iN. “It’s a bit of a retrospective with a little window onto the future. The 20-course tasting menu has been developed to present classic and signature cocktails, traditional flavors and rare or unusual ingredients in different textures. The experience is inspired by Japan as the Lounge Bohemia concept was born on a flight back from Tokyo in 2006. There will be a slight change to the interior, and guests can expect an immersive, multi-sensory experience.”

The Czech-born mixologist executes the most advanced techniques in a setting that feels like a blast from the past. Inspired by his grandmother’s living room back home, the basement speakeasy features original mid-century pieces from 1950s and ’60s, including several items from communist-era Czechoslovakia. Lounge Bohemia, located at 1E Great Eastern Street in Shoreditch, is a speakeasy, so keep an eye out. 

“Sessions are limited to 10 people maximum, on a shared table,” Tvaroh adds. “Each session will last three hours, from 7pm to 10pm, Monday to Thursday. We then have two sessions on Friday and Saturday, from 6pm to 9pm and again from 9:30pm to 12:30am. Bookings can be made via loungebohemia.com.”

Learn more about Lounge Bohemia in the new, expanded edition of LOST iN London coming this fall.