Several years on from opening and still going strong, Mahiki is hands down one of the capital’s power players in the club stakes. Attracting a crowd of wealthy bankers, gap-yah kids, glamour girls, the odd celeb and their hangers-on, it is still very much at the core of London’s high-end party scene. Scoring guestlist or VIP will smooth entry, and as usual be prepared to splurge as cover and drinks don’t come cheap – the menu alters post-11pm and prices shoot up. However, drinks are made properly and are generous. Refreshingly, the club eschews the typical faux-minimalism in favour of a playful and knowingly kitsch Polynesian vibe, replete with delicious rum cocktails and the infamous cocktail treasure chest.

It’s unabashedly elitest, as the queue to get in on any given night will attest. Unless your name’s Rihanna, you’ll be fortunate to get in without a pair of stilettoes and guys would be advised to turn up with a gorgeous girl pal or two. Music is lady-friendly – so plenty of top 40 and 80’s pop – but if you’re willing to brave the queue and pay the piper, you’ll be in for a gloriously fun night.

Opening times: Monday - Saturday: 17:30 - 03:00