Soma 2.0 London bar in Canary Wharf: review

With its imposing, modernist skyline, Canary Wharf is known as London’s financial district. However, post-pandemic, the region’s hospitality industry has seen strong development. The latest high-profile addition is Soma 2.0 – a reimagining of Soho-based speakeasy bar Soma from cricket co-founders Rik Campbell and Will Bowlby. The original Denman Street location quickly gained widespread acclaim, culminating in being named Best Bar at the GQ Food & Drink Awards in April 2022. The new location retains the same eclectic but still highly curated vibe, with an expressive, vibrant cocktail menu that celebrates the diversity of flavors of the Indian subcontinent.

Soma 2.0, a new London bar

(Image credit: Courtesy of Soma 2.0)

At Soma 2.0, each drink follows the motto “less is more” and uses seasonal ingredients and a distinctly Indian flavor. From the refreshing and aromatic “Carom” (which combines East London Liquor Co vodka, lime leaf, caramel pisco and tonka bean) to the altogether richer, sweet and savory “Mango” (Japanese Toki whiskey, green lacto mango, Ancho Reyes). Verde liqueur and honey) to the coastal “Samphire” – a non-alcoholic blend of samphire tea, Himalayan salt, ginger and green chilli – meticulous attention to detail and artistic flair are clearly evident in every recipe developed by the chef , Will Rogers.

(Image credit: Courtesy of Soma 2.0)

(Image credit: Courtesy of Soma 2.0)

However, it’s not just the drinks that are eye-catching and innovative. Designed by CAKE Architecture (whose motto “a collaborative approach to space, place and object” was also the driving force behind the striking, utilitarian design of A Bar With Shapes For A Name in east London), Soma’s striking interiors stand out through an industrial aesthetic with exposed concrete elements, brightened by a bespoke geometric light fixture in yellow and red, which the team says is “inspired by the vibrant colors of marigold markets”.

(Image credit: Courtesy of Soma 2.0)

With the central bar seating up to 50 people and a separate lounge area with low tables and comfortable sofas (which can be rented privately), Soma 2.0 reflects the spontaneity of its Soho sibling and focuses on walk-ups with very limited space available for reservations.

Soma 2.0 is located at 6 Frobisher Passage, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4EE, somasoho.com

(Image credit: Courtesy of Soma 2.0)

(Image credit: Courtesy of Soma 2.0)