About Cato
Cato is a cocktail bar spread over three rooms on Mercer Street at Seven Dials, describing its character as New York soul with British spirit. It takes its name from Cato Alexander, the freedman whose tavern made him America's first celebrated bartender and, in the bar's words, turned cocktails into culture.
The bar is run by Bart & Taylor Group, the hospitality company behind a string of venues across the country, and it was built as three distinct spaces under one roof. The House of Julep on the ground floor is the main bar, Casual by Tayēr occupies the basement, and Cato's Study is kept for private hire. The drinks are built around bold flavours and an experience the bar says is shaped for everyone, from a first cocktail after work to a late tasting session downstairs.
Three-room cocktail bar at Seven Dials
Mercer Street runs off the Seven Dials junction, a couple of minutes from Covent Garden station and the shops of Neal Street, and the three rooms let a visit change pace through an evening. Reservations are taken online, gift vouchers are sold through the website, and the private study suits small celebrations and work gatherings that want their own space.
What to expect on a visit
The website lists opening at 3pm from Monday to Saturday, closing at midnight on Monday and Tuesday and at 1am from Wednesday to Saturday, with no Sunday opening shown. Expect a serious drinks list and a room that gets busier towards the later hours. For a rooftop alternative nearby, see AMANO Rooftop Bar, or browse our guide to cocktail bars in Covent Garden for more of the neighbourhood's rooms.
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Reviews
Cato is an absolute gem for cocktail lovers. Every drink was beautifully crafted, well-balanced, and packed with creativity. You can really tell the bartenders are passionate about their craft, with each cocktail offering unique flavors and thoughtful presentation. What truly elevated the experience was the exceptional service. The team was warm, attentive, and knowledgeable, taking the time to explain the drinks and offer recommendations tailored to our preferences. Their hospitality made us feel genuinely welcomed throughout the evening. A fantastic spot for great cocktails, outstanding service, and a memorable night out. I’ll definitely be back to explore more of their cocktail menu!
Amazing cocktails and a fantastic atmosphere. Every drink was creative, balanced, and beautifully presented. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and made great recommendations. Definitely one of the best cocktail bars I’ve visited in London. Highly recommended!
Delicious cocktails, fantastic friendly staff, unpretentious, and comfortable. We dropped in for some cocktails just after they opened, we were immediately welcomed and seated, it was a lovely relaxed atmosphere, and the attentive friendly staff made you want to stay longer, the wonderfully creative cocktail menu helped too. We sat in The House of Julep (ground floor), they have a different menu in the basement area (Cato Basement), looking forward to trying that next time.