Milroy’s of Soho to reopen with whisky bar

Milroy’s of Soho, the oldest whisky shop in London, is readying for a relaunch later this month complete with a brand new basement cocktail and whisky bar.

The establishment, founded by the Milroy brothers in the 1960s, was purchased by Martin Simpson, formerly of Coal Vaults, in December last year and will officially reopen on 20 February.

“I wanted to build the already established Milroy’s brand, bringing it back to its former glory and making it a name synonymous with whisky once again,” said Simpson.

“We also wanted to create a cocktail bar hidden away from the world where people can escape, relax and enjoy a good drink.”

Downstairs, guests will find The Vault – a cocktail bar with room to seat 55 people offering seasonal beverages crafted with home infused spirits.

A private Barrel Room with room to accommodate 12 visitors will also be opened.

On the ground floor there will be a 12-seater whisky bar, Milroy’s Bar, offering more than 250 different whiskies in 35ml servings.

Furthermore, consumers who buy a bottle of whisky worth more than £200 at the bar will receive a key to a locker with their name, where they can store the whisky until their next visit.

“As far as I’m aware this is a fairly new concept for the spirits industry,” commented Lee Tomlinson, general manager of Milroy’s. “When the Milroy brothers first owned the store they had a bar here.

“I think it’s something consumers want, particularly if it allows them to try a wider variety of spirits before they buy.

“By and large, consumers are looking for guidance when they come to us – this is something the bar will definitely be able to help with.”