The making of an Athenaeum Negroni

Some cocktails come and go, and then there's the Negroni. Timeless, unmistakable, and beautifully simple, it's a drink that proves great classics rarely need reinventing. 

At The Athenaeum, our approach is much the same. Rather than changing what makes a Negroni iconic, we focus on the details that quietly make it our own. 

We spent time behind the bar with our mixologist, Poppy, discovering the small rituals that go into every Athenaeum Negroni. As she explains, "A classic should never be overcomplicated. It's about getting the small things right." 

Those small things begin before the first ingredient is poured. 

Every Negroni starts with a chilled glass, helping the cocktail stay crisp and perfectly balanced from the very first sip to the last. It's a simple step, but one Poppy never skips. 

Next comes our own Athenaeum Gin, created exclusively for the hotel and inspired by one of our most recognisable features, the Living Wall. Fresh, botanical and distinctly ours, it gives the cocktail a character that couldn't belong anywhere else. 

Finally, there's the garnish. Fresh orange and lemon, sourced from Watts Farms, bring brightness and lift to the drink without overpowering it. Like every great classic, it's a reminder that restraint often speaks louder than excess. 

Of course, every great cocktail deserves the right company. 

Poppy's recommendation? Pair your Negroni with our charcuterie board or the baked Camembert at 116. The richness of both dishes beautifully balances the bittersweet character of the cocktail, creating a pairing that's become one of her favourites behind the bar. 

The best cocktails aren't simply about what's in the glass. They're about the atmosphere, the conversation and the moments shared around them. 

Whether you're joining us during Negroni Week or discovering our bar at another time of year, pull up a seat and let us make you the perfect Athenaeum Negroni.