Mahiki is the passageway to the underworld in Polynesian mythology, and in London it is the name of a very popular nightclub in Mayfair. Opened in 2006 by Nick House and Piers Adam, it has become a favourite hangout for celebrities and the young royals.

Princes Harry and William are regulars with their own table, and are often seen in the company of friends sampling the cocktails and soaking up the Polynesian ambiance.

The club has a Polynesian themed décor that goes way over the top. Wicker high back chairs and low tables are accented by hand-carved tiki statues and palm fronds surround the seating areas. Shell chandeliers hang from a grass hut ceiling, and there are bamboo walls, it is designed to make you feel transported to a tropical island.

The music is older, mainly 70s and 80s standbys, which lends a retro feel to the club.

Thursday nights are very popular here, featuring a themed party hosted by socialites.

Island themed cocktails are the real draw. You can have your Pina Coladas served in a real frozen pineapple, and the Coconut Grenades arrive in real coconut shells. The bartenders are rum experts, deftly blending everything from mojitos to zombies.

Of particular interest are the large group drinks. The Bikini Blast comes in a watermelon rind, filled with watermelon, pineapple, lemon, and tequila and topped with a flaming shot for whoever finishes their drink first. The Treasure Chest is an amazing mixture of liquors topped with a bottle of champagne and served with foot long straws. It serves 8 and carries the princely price tag of £100.

The club was founded on an open door policy, which means as long as they are not full to capacity, everyone will be admitted. Despite its celebrity clientele and the publicity that generates, there is no guest list, no velvet rope, and no preferential treatment which makes it a bit of a standout amongst prestigious London clubs.

In practice, there may be times when celebrity and good looks trump this egalitarian policy, especially after 11 PM on a packed night, but for the most part the club holds true to its values.

Visiting Mahiki

Address: 1 Dover Street, Mayfair, W1S 4LD

Telephone: 020 7493 9529

Opening Times

Monday to Saturday 17:30 - 5:30

Photo courtesy: Ewan-M

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