Shakedown Restaurant & Bar
Tucked within the storied walls of The Dixon, Tower Bridge’s landmark hotel, Shakedown offers a spirited yet sophisticated all-day drinking and dining experience where bold flavours and restless energy collide. It’s a destination in its own right – a place to shake off the day, raise a glass, and let the evening take hold.
Named in a nod to the building’s life as a courthouse, where verdicts were delivered and fates decided, Shakedown channels that same charged atmosphere into something altogether more convivial. The bar programme leads with confidence – inventive cocktails, well-chosen wines, and a menu built for sharing and staying – all set against the dramatic backdrop of Tower Bridge itself.
More than just a hotel bar, Shakedown is where the city comes to exhale. Buzzing by day, electric by night. Whether you’re dropping in for a long lunch, a pre-theatre drink, or a late-night session with friends, every visit carries the unmistakable feeling that something worth remembering is just about to begin.
Built on Stories
Shakedown, nestled in the vibrant Tower Bridge area of London, is more than just a Cocktail Bar, Espresso Bar, and dining restaurant—it’s a living testament to the city’s intriguing past. Back in 1905, our hotel served as a bustling police station, and the restaurant floor was home to 22 holding cells in the basement, each holding a story of its own.
The Shakedown Table
The name “Shakedown” itself harks back to the thorough searches the police conducted on their prisoners, and it’s a name that has stood the test of time, just like the stories etched into the very fabric of our establishment.
At Shakedown, we’re excited to introduce you to a culinary experience rooted in the rich tradition of Cichetti, a cherished Italian custom of enjoying small, flavourful bites meant for sharing and savouring with friends and loved ones. Our menu not only features an enticing selection of pizzettas, pasta, and prosecco but also embraces the essence of Cichetti.
Eat, Share, Celebrate
Shakedown not only brings you the best of Italian cuisine but also invites you to embrace the Mediterranean tradition of communal dining, where the act of sharing a meal transcends mere sustenance and becomes a heartfelt celebration of food, friendship, and culture.
Afternoon Tea at Shakedown
For a twist on tradition, join us for afternoon tea in the vibrant surroundings of Shakedown. Set above the very basement where 22 holding cells once stood, it’s a setting that adds a little intrigue to every occasion. Indulge in delicate handmade sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry preserve, and a selection of seasonal pastries – all paired with your choice of premium loose-leaf teas from around the world. Begin with a signature sparkling cocktail, and for those who really want to make an afternoon of it, upgrade to 90 minutes of unlimited Pommery English Sparkling Wine.
Exclusive & Semi Exclusive Events
Shakedown at The Dixon, Tower Bridge is a venue that wears its history on its walls. Housed within the original cell block of a former Magistrates’ Court, the space retains its raw, characterful bones – exposed brickwork, vaulted ceilings, and industrial detailing – while delivering a finish that’s sharp, contemporary, and unmistakably intentional. The result is a setting with genuine edge, equally at home hosting a brand launch, an intimate media dinner, or a late-night private reception.
Available for exclusive or semi-exclusive hire, Shakedown offers a flexible open-plan layout with dedicated events and operations support throughout. For brands and hosts looking for something beyond the predictable, it provides a backdrop with real narrative – steps from Tower Bridge, and a long way from the ordinary.
Private Dining
Shakedown’s restaurant floor becomes yours – a raw, atmospheric space for dinners that feel anything but corporate. Bespoke menus crafted around your brief, with full table dressing, dedicated service, and wine pairing available on request.
Enquire now Events BrochureDrinks & receptions
The vaulted ceilings and exposed brickwork make Shakedown an instinctive choice for cocktail receptions, product launches, and late-night brand moments. Canapés and bespoke drinks packages available for up to 120 guests.
Enquire now Events BrochureFull restaurant Hire
Take over the entire space for an event that needs room to breathe. Ideal for media dinners, agency offsites, and brand activations where atmosphere is part of the brief. Our team handles logistics end to end.
Enquire now Events BrochurePrivate Booking
