Apollo’s Muse: London’s Most Exclusive Members Club

Being part of a members’ club in London has long been a significant aspect of the capital’s social scene. Over the years, these establishments have evolved, adapting to the changing times. Initially, in the 1700s, they began as casual coffee houses where men gathered to drink and converse. Subsequently, they transformed into more upscale venues featuring formal dining rooms, grand libraries, and lavish parlours—think of notable names like Annabel’s and Home House. The dawn of the 21st century sparked a nostalgia for understated glamour and muted wealth, seen in clubs such as Soho House and 5 Hertford Street. Now, members’ clubs appear to have come full circle with the debut of Apollo’s Muse in Mayfair.

Located discreetly behind Bacchanalia, one of London’s most opulent new restaurants, Apollo’s Muse showcases an extravagant design ethos characterized by floor-to-ceiling marble and ancient Greek and Roman art and sculptures—some dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries. Positioned as the “most private of private members’ clubs,” Apollo’s Muse limits its membership to just 500 individuals, making it one of the most exclusive private members clubs globally.

Design and Atmosphere

Designed by Richard Caring, a renowned mogul in the members club industry, this impressive Greco-Italian space complements the notable Martin Brudnizki and Damien Hirst elements found in Bacchanalia. Rivalling some of the world’s finest museums and galleries, guests can admire a collection of priceless antiquities, including a Roman marble Venus (circa 1st/2nd century AD), a Greek funerary Lekythos (circa 4th century AD), and of course, the club’s namesake: Apollo’s Muse (2nd century AD). The décor features mirrored tables, velvet-clad bar stools, bespoke Murano wine glasses, and lavish gold-leaf-inspired napkin rings, enhancing the establishment’s overall magnificence.

Exquisite Dining Experience

The drinks menu is equally impressive, boasting rare vintages, old Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Barolos, alongside carefully curated cocktails. The Apollo’s Martini stands out as a true work of art: crafted using various elements from an olive tree, including leaves, olive oil, and olives—after tasting over 100 olives to determine the perfect varieties. The martini is garnished with an exquisite selection of olives: green kalamata, red kalamata, smoked olive, and lemon-stuffed olive, finished with a spritz of aromatic olive oil.

Elevated Bar Snacks and Larger Dishes

The menu also features elevated bar snacks. Highlights include a deconstructed BLT made from tomato marmalade, crispy prosciutto, and croutons served in an ice-gem leaf, deviled eggs topped with crab and lemon zest, and tortellini filled with burrata drizzled with roasted chicken sauce.

For those seeking heartier options, the offerings include a Beluga caviar-topped jacket potato, a wagyu burger adorned with melted gorgonzola, caramelized onions, and black truffle mayo, as well as a luxurious lobster brioche bun accented with horseradish mayonnaise and caviar.

Exclusive Member Benefits

Members can access a private concierge service that assists with requests for activities and transport within the city. Additionally, a variety of events, monthly wine dinners, and weekly live music and DJ acts enrich the club’s vibrant atmosphere.

Visit Apollo’s Muse

Address: 1-3 Mount Street, Mayfair, London W1K 3NA

Website: apollos-muse.co.uk