Karpo bar, King's Cross

23-27 Euston Road, NW1 2SD

Karpo bar is a relative newcomer to the King's Cross area, and if my first visit was anything to go by it has yet to draw in the crowds who will undoubtedly flock here in the future.

This underground bar is divided into two parts - the main bar area is all sleek, candlelit and luxurious, and the other space is down a step and is a separate area filled with little leather booths and cheerful photos of local people covering every inch of the walls, which is a nice touch. You can reserve this separate part of the bar for free during the week for gatherings and dos.

Above the bar on the ground floor is an excellent restaurant by the same name (in fact, both the bar and the restaurant are part of the Megaro hotel located in the same building). The food is a little on the pricey side, but it's a great spot for lunch, and their cakes - available to takeaway - are delicious and extremely reasonably priced. A special shout-out to their carrot cake - officially the best one I've ever tasted.

Cosy rating: 8/10 - not for rustic charm, but if you're looking for a dimly-lit atmospheric bar with a delicious dash of sophisticated opulence, then this is the place for you.
Secret rating: 8/10 - a hidden gem for the time being, but it's right opposite King's Cross Station on Euston Road (you can't miss it - the building with the bright mural façade, next to Barclays), and I can't imagine it will remain undiscovered for much longer.
Best bits: A great range of cocktails at around the £8 mark - not bad at all. They also have an entire menu dedicated to absinthe, if you're that way inclined!
Worst bits: They'll add 10% to your bill for table service, which of course isn't unusual.