Vinopolis

Unfortunately I feel Vinopolis represents much of what is wrong with many London attractions today- overpriced, cynical and ill-executed. I have been twice- once more than 2 years ago- and on that visit there was clear signage so you knew where to go, there was a beers section (now gone) and a staffed Absinthe table (now gone- although the table remains there unused and you're directed to the bar) and there were more staff and more wines to choose from. I re-visited on Friday 2nd Oct. The idea is well conceived but it feels tired and grubby and I agree with the other reviewer regarding the dirty trellis tables set up with cheap downloaded flags on them in front of a selection of wine. You don't know anything, the staff don't really know anything and the place is cluttered with corporate adverts for Tio Pepe and the like. The Bombay Sapphire bar feels like a welcome distraction and has a lovely table of ingredients and a collection of unusual contemporary Martini glasses, but even here there's a lack of focus and professionalism. Lean over the lovely doughnut-shaped table to smell ingredients like juniper berries and all you can see is a huge filthy unit for plugs in the middle of the floor which looks like the cleaners can't be bothered to reach.

The cost is an issue too; we paid half price (£10) and got 5 very small wine samples (I suspect it's about 15-20ml) and one very small Bombay Sapphire Cocktail. If we had paid £20 I would have been livid. I don't know what's happened at this place in the last couple of years- it's as if they lost a decent manager or the focus and energy has all been spent on building up the great looking bar and restaurant next door.

Avoid at all costs. If you like wine, go to the Cork & Bottle at Leicester Square or Vivat Bacchus instead.

I have been asked to organise an event in Vinopolis for our company. Straight from the beginning I have been dealing with very nice, polite people who were willing to help.

The event itself was just great. The wine tour was full of exciting information and the lady was lovely and professional. After the tour we went to Blue Bar where we had a little nibbles & few bottles of wine. Food was fantastic beautiful presentation and stuff, even that they were very busy, were looking after us very well. I can highly recommend Vinopolis!!

The only thing where you get confused are the entrances ... you never know which one is for which event.

Thank you very much!!