Embargo is a late night club on the Kings Road that doesn't take itself too seriously.

The Venue
The Kings Road often evokes images of high end retail and even higher cheekbones, so for those seeking an achingly hip members club, Embargo may well be a disappointment. However, those willing to look further will find a casual alternative to the high-stakes pandemonium of Amica or Boujis.

Entering from a back street off Kings Road, the inauspicious entrance is hardly inviting. But ascend the dimly lit staircase and enter the cavernous main room of the club and the scene dramatically improves. Deep booths and a large, split-level dancefloor break up the space of the main auditorium, and idiosyncratic design touches add to the flavour of the room. However, this area still has a sparse feel, even at capacity. The small VIP bar is cosier and smarter, and offers table service.

The Atmosphere
Embargo has a deserved reputation for fun, no-frills nights out. The friendly door policy of the club ensures a rich blend of real and wannabe Sloanes, as well as a fair number of folks from further afield - all with one thing on their mind. It's not cool, it's not clever, but the student night vibe offers something for everyone.

The Music
The overall tone of Embargo seems to reflect a simple premise; that with enough people in a club, plied with reasonably priced drinks, and entertained with music that the lowest common denominator will be familiar with, a majority of guests will enjoy themselves. This simple policy seems to pay significant dividends.

The Drink
Despite it popularity, the bars at Embargo are relatively uncluttered, and the staff are friendly and amiable. Additionally, drinks are reasonably priced (given the location), if a little mundane. The wide but uninspiring selection of bottled beers keep the regulars happy, and a range of priced-to-sell shots and shooters shouldn't disappoint. The cocktail and wine list is rather pedestrian, but the bar staff will have a crack at making more adventurous concoctions, and are happy to accept all forms of plastic.

The Last Word
Don't expect to see royalty drinking here, but Embargo offers a fun (if formulaic) Chelsea night out.