One of Chelsea’s iconic restaurants for nearly three decades and the birthplace of the Flaming Ferrari, Nam Long Le Shaker launches an intimate late-night lounge featuring stunning décor and a bespoke new cocktail menu this month.
Opening its downstairs to the public for the first time as The Opium Den, the area will provide a show-stopping mosaic cocktail bar and more upbeat ambience to the rest of the venue. Hidden underneath the iconic restaurant, a wrought iron staircase will lead guests downstairs, into a sultry low-lit area with a debauched late-night vibe, handcrafted statues, and plush velvet banquettes to kick back and relax in. Traditional artwork adorns the walls and wood-patterned flooring adds an authentic finish to the mischievous den.
Established in 1985, Nam Long was founded by Thai Dang, a flamboyant man and local hero known for his distinct way of running the door, famously denying both Prince William and Mick Jagger entry. The restaurant and nightspot has remained a nightlife institution for decades and is now managed by Thai’s very talented 29-year old daughter, Dzuyen, after he sadly passed away last year. As one of London’s few female nightspot owners, and a woman to watch, Dzuyen aims to introduce the Nam Long brand to a new era, while always staying true to its colourful history.
Nam Long will also introduce a new cocktail menu to celebrate the new opening, with additions such as Mr Thai, created in honour of Nam Long’s founder, a simple yet solid drink of rye whiskey, truffle honey, and grapefruit bitters, served short with ice. Jade, a smooth citrus concoction of vodka/gin, cucumber, elderflower and lime, and Bardot, a graceful and smooth lychee liqueur based drink, combined with gin, a dash of cherry heering, and rose water, as well as the ever-present, notorious Flaming Ferrari. Set on fire and drunk quickly through a straw, The Flaming Ferrari is truly an eye-catching phenomenon, worth visiting the bar for on its own.
