A Martini Fit for a Proper Gentleman | Duke's Bar: London's Best-Kept Secret | Kirby Allison

Duke's Bar in London is possibly one of the best-kept secrets amongst the well-dressed. Hidden at the end of not one, but two alleyways, one steps back in time when they enter Duke's Bar, to an era where everyone was well-dressed and well-mannered. Serving some of London's strongest - and coldest - martinis, bartender Alessandro Palazzi is as famous as the bar itself and drinks he serves.
In today's video, Kirby steps inside Duke's Bar to visit with Alessandro and discover what makes it stand out as mecca of civility and home to the world's best martini!
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A Martini Fit for a Proper Gentleman | Duke's Bar: London's Best-Kept Secret
00:00 Introduction
01:48 History of Duke's Bar
05:38 Ian Fleming
09:30 A Classic Bar Fit for the Modern Era
13:00 A Club Within a Club
14:48 Duke's Vesper Martini
28:15 Duke's Classic Martini
🧺 Dry cleaning provided by Rave Fabricare: bit.ly/3ery0FU
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INSTAGRAM / kirbyallison

[@davidc9135]

Notice how Alessandro Palazzi doesn't interrupt and always gives the conversation to Kirby should they speak at the same time. A true gentleman in a class of his own.

[@kirbyallison]

Indeed!

[@tomlock5484]

He really is. He makes you feel like you are the most important man in the house. He is genuinely interested in other people. He's such a nice chap.

[@leewalsh3520]

​@@kirbyallisonenjoying your channel immensely. I know now how I'd spend my time and money when I win the lottery. Keep up the good work Sir. God bless you 🙏

[@supersonique001]

It's a pleasure to be reminded that there still exists a world of elegance and class in a world becoming more and more devoid of it.

[@diegok3661]

For the longest time, I thought that my generation is, for the lack of a better word, doomed (I’m 18). One must remember: For every genius the internet brings forth a million dim-witted nincompoops. So as far as I can tell, hope isn’t lost, far from it. With modern medicine, travel options and a seemingly infinite amount of knowledge at their fingertips, we must only encourage our kids and teens and give them a little nudge in the right direction and all will be just fine.

[@aechchai8712]

Get off the internet every once in a while and you’ll realize things have never really changed lmao

[@iloveyouskii]

@@aechchai8712very true, people that complain about this bs are chronically online.. social media doesnt show you the real world… niches exist all over the world. If youre watching this guy make videos that are “classy” and you like them too youre not special its been like this for years the population is only growing

[@AaronChristopherSaulters-jo9xl]

Refined people are simply the best.

[@2cuntsgaming]

Agreed, the internet has its pro's and ALOT of cons but once we step into the outside world where you cant just run your mouth and harras another, there is parts of society that exude class, sophistication and a little dignity. -Cyba

[@captainairbus3215]

He is not "just" a bartender, he is an artist that is proud of his work.

[@user-hv4de6ei2r]

Literally anyone can make this

[@floyd9223]

This channel is such a gem. You rarely see someone valuing the importance of elegance, tradition and the art of enjoying life anymore.

[@cloudforest4087]

Even the importance of talking properly, breathing through your nose and pausing.

[@eddiel7635]

I once ordered three and when the guy finished making them I stood up and tipped over that little table so they spilled everywhere… I had to immediately order three more. They weren’t impressed and I was the opposite of elegant.

[@alexmarty3291]

Not typically a martini guy but every time I'm in London I make my way into Dukes 2-3 times. The Vesper is in a class of its own. Alessandro is almost always there as well and a great guy.

[@kirbyallison]

Alessandro is truly a legend. One of my favorite things to do is just watch him work the room. He is a true master not just of cocktails but of hospitality.

[@Darragh1]

I don't like gin, but I wanna try that Vesper.

[@robertrushing627]

Ok I am booking a flight !!!

[@RichardEnglander]

Does he use grain vodka not potato vodka? The latter is oily

[@garthbuck4274]

I have been a James Bond fan since I was a young boy; soft Jazz in the background, the commentary between Alessandro and Kirby was excellent. Dukes is par excellence as a venue. Bravo gentlemen.

[@kirbyallison]

Thank you!

[@azzureone78]

This was a home run for content and production. It's beautiful to see a man at the top of his game like Alessandro. Thank you for introducing Duke's to a wider audience. Definitely stopping by when I'm next in London!

[@kirbyallison]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@devoskii456]

The production quality of this one was amazing! I must congratulate you. :)

[@primarya4156]

not amazing, it's proper

[@edfrugal4321]

@@primarya4156.

[@dbib9754]

What an impeccable man. A charming, conversationalist who brings you along for the journey. Pure class, graceful in his passion, a gentleman. You must find a way to bring Alessandro to our screens more often!

[@ak203]

Wiltons has long been my favorite as well. When I first started going there they had a framed photo of Charles and Diana behind the bar. After they separated, Wiltons cut the photo in two and framed them separately:) Their rock oysters, their smoked salmon, their lamb their...everything is superb.

[@nickthompson7743]

They had quite a reasonable coronation menu.

[@davidblack1829]

As a 25 plus year barman and counting.. I love this. Cheers Alessandro from a colleague across the pond

[@20DYNAMITE06]

Duke's was, and will forever be, the best cocktail experience of my life.

[@alejandronunez3032]

I've watched this several times now. Whenever I happen to be home alone for a day or so and looking to make myself a nice cocktail to enjoy the evening, I find myself putting up this video on my TV. Though I've heard the conversation before, it's always a pleasure to hear the passion behind the craft.

[@mr.k5865]

Thank you Kirby and Alessandro. I am so grateful Kirby you are standing up for normalizing a passion for details, quality, and good fellowship. In a world getting more and more encouraged to follow the lowest common denominator as "normal", there is so little self-esteem in society today. You see this with many being triggered, even offended, at the idea of bettering themselves whether via clothes, manners, or time-valued traditions. Sadly, no one has taught them there is a vast world of difference between self-importance and self-respect, between false pretensions and genuine joy in sharing hard-won excellence with other appreciative people. Thank you again, Kirby! Sending lots of love and gratitude to you and your team. P.S. I would love to see you do a video that incorporates cocktails and cigars...especially helpful would be explaining how to pair cocktails with cigars. Maybe there is a fine cigar lounge-bar willing to offer some advice on your show?

[@petrolhead1960]

Well said. I couldn’t agree more. It pains me to see the incivility that passes for normal or cool behaviour nowadays. That’s why I enjoy Kirby’s videos so much.

[@jasonwoodhouse103]

Very well said.

[@johan13135]

You watch Kirby because you wanna see a wide-eyed Texan roleplaying as a European aristocrat, being a bit cringe as he rolls around London or other capitals with a faux pas hat. Or make even the most mundane stuff sound painfully pretentious. He's fun watching because he's genuine in what he does, but still fumbles because he becomes such an cliché of what an American thinks a traditional, old money, aristocratic European behaves and dresses likes. And he also belongs to the very much non-traditional influencers, promoting the "iGents" lifestyle. And they personally profit from pushing overpriced stuff onto their clueless followers. Thats their main drive to make these kinds of videos and blog posts

[@cannibalholocaust3015]

Classy stuff Johan. Sure, it’s a bit of escapism for most who watch and the idiosyncrasies are part of the fun of any culture clash. At least you acknowledge the absolute sincerity of Kirby. Maybe he’s too polite and respectful for your cynical tastes.

[@GiaGRitter]

I second this! Absolutely everything you said including the pairing video.

[@user-nl6cl8zz2v]

I was fortunate enough to visit Duke's with my sister in October '23. What a treat this was! I'm not generally a martini fan but had to have a Vesper Martini....what an amazing experience! Glauco was our table side bartender and he was simply incredible! We saw Alessandro there as well...a class act! While mixing at our table, Glauco told us all about the drink and engaged in friendly talk. The Vesper martini, which is delicious, was a highlight of our trip to London and I will definitely be back!

[@karimelzein9115]

Another masterpiece.. this channel is too much

[@kirbyallison]

Thank you!

[@clivejohnson9515]

I have to agree! Kirby is the gift that keeps on giving!👍👍👍👌👌👌

[@saparicio89]

Watching the master fixing you the best Martini in the world, while drinking one as you wait, what a boss move.

[@kirbyallison]

Alessandro is the best. On any given night, Alessandro personally knows over 50% of the people at the bar. His ability to work a room is incredible. All while serving his famous martinis!

[@greglinski2208]

@@kirbyallisonI bet he knows _you_ intimately 😂 🥳🤤😋

[@user-hj5nr3wy5w]

Fantastic production. I love the fact that Duke’s is hidden and one seeks it out.

[@r.mercado9737]

Eloquence, sophistication, and refinement! Priceless. Outstanding! Semper Fidelis

[@kirbyallison]

Thank you!

[@andresetc]

Absolutely no television! I love it!

[@hanskloss1331]

I'm curious what the policy with cellphones is IMO shut them OFF

[@RighteousReverendDynamite]

The Trolley at the tableside is one of the things that make the bar so elegant and sedate. I remember my visit there more than a decade ago. Very polite staff and other patrons. It was sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of a very busy city. The gauzey sunlight entering the room from the lounge window gave a nice soft summer afternoon glow. That was still the best martini I have ever had. ...and I don't prefer to drink them as they are not as good. (the local bar at our seaside hotel that was once a haunt for Hollywood types like local son Gregory Peck and anglophile writer Raymond Chandler had put in a new bar to replace the beloved bar from 1948 and had "Vesper" on the menu that did not come close to following the recipe in Casino Royale at all and was akin to bad kerosene; so I told the bartender how they do it at Duke's Bar and he agreed to make one and he himself tasted it and said that it was waaaaaay better than what they had. )

[@kirbyallison]

The trolley is indeed special. There is a refinement to it. And everyone gets the same level of service! Martinis made table side!!

[@rhino202]

Your cameraman needs a raise. This was beautifully shot

[@kirbyallison]

😅 they’re already paid a fortune! Haha. Hats off to the editors, as well. Filming it is often the easy part.

[@marcosfigueiredo8515]

Nice since of humor

[@davemedlyn071]

Pure Kirby, pure class.

[@RichardEnglander]

When Kirby says 'Dukes' I hear Al Capone 'Put up yer dukes!' He's soooo gangster 😂

[@dirkdiggler7887]

i love your videos so relaxing. You should show more interior of the bar IMO

[@cameronmcandrew9745]

Mr Allison, So few gentlemen exude just such grace and humility without any amount of pretentiousness or insincerity in this day and age. In my experience from some years of my youth performing the role as a chaperone in some fine bars and establishments here in Australia, there was an ayre if superiority and entitlement by too many attempting to sire themselves as gentleman that always spiked the hairs on my neck, you Sir, are not among these men and women. You truly are a man out of time past, a true gentleman.

[@jmcnamara9650]

The ultimate video on making a martini. The whole experience of having a martini. Now I just need a tray of oysters to pair with it.

[@hangtimedangjang]

I'm imagining Kirby in a "King Ralph" scenario, and he's like "I'm so ready for this". Great content. Change nothing.

[@teenoso4069]

Fascinating and nice to see Duke's bar in the limelight. Its now owned by a private Dubai Property Developer. I weep.

[@loucalouca]

Isn’t beautiful to know that these sort of places still exist ! I can’t wait to go . Thanks Kirby for sharing these gems , and a thank you to the bar man , he’s definitely worthier of a Fleming character!

[@kirbyallison]

Don't forget to check out all of our other videos on the channel! We have at on of equally excellent content from London!

[@TheMattForbes]

As a real gin fiend, this was particularly exceptional viewing. Vermouth is usually my deterrent for a martini, but at Duke's with Alessandro at the helm, I'd happily succumb to those 125 mL! Brilliant work, Kirby (and Alessandro!)

[@kirbyallison]

An "essence" of vermouth, as described by another person in the comments. Just the right amount! haha

[@mattiasbroberg2683]

Alessandro began his career at Duke`s 125 years ago. There must be something magical in those Martinis... 🙂 Fascinating as usual. Keep up the good work!!

[@RichardEnglander]

Ah that was a joke...

[@scottmcalister4513]

Easily one of your best videos Kirby, it has been a pleasure to watch you mature into a comfortable delivery and a very good spokesman for "quality, craftsmanship and tradition". Anybody watching will be adding a visit to Alessandro and Duke's to their bucketlists. Cheers!

[@lrvogt1257]

I had my first martini at the Dukes in the spring of 2000 prepared by Mr Palazzi's predecessor, Gilberto Preti. Our son was with us so we had to sit in the lovely drawing room down the hall where Mr Preti brought the cart to us. Very nice. The martini was essentially the same but he instructed us to chew a cashew, then an olive (no pimento) and then take a big sip. We each had our two drink limit.

[@PM-jl4zd]

Love how Kirby loves London - true gent!

[@DecemberNames]

I just wanted to take a moment to say how amazing your video was! I was really impressed with the quality of the footage, the editing, and the overall presentation. You did a great job of explaining the topic in a clear and concise way, and I learned a lot from watching your video. I also really appreciated the way you made the video engaging and entertaining. You kept my attention throughout the entire video, and I never felt bored or lost. I would definitely recommend your video to anyone who is interested in learning more about the video.

[@clivejohnson9515]

A wonderful video as usual, Kirby! I'll be in London in September, so I'll make a point of going there!👍

[@kirbyallison]

You won’t be disappointed!

[@paulff3]

Outstanding Kirby. Your content just keeps getting better and better.

[@A.Cheevers_Co.]

What a great video! The content and production quality is impeccable. Thank you for holding the standard high at a time when sloppiness is the rule. May you long lead the way in aspirational culture.

[@christopherbuilder5354]

Kirby angling for that OBE 😅

[@romac9516]

Alessandro is the Duke's jewel. Fascinating from start to finish.

[@47solar43]

Bravo, Kirby. Excellent production.

[@blueeyes101]

Fabulous episode

[@chadchaumont]

Absolutely Amazing!

[@phill.2924]

I trust the gentleman completely with his choices of gin and Vermouth, but when he said his lemons were from Amalfi, the coastal town of Italy, I knew that this man was a master. To him, no one ingredient is more important than another; the citrus, as he said, welcomes your senses to the drink and prepares the palate. Well done, sir.

[@lcarsng]

Thank you for bringing this gem to my attention, Kirby! Fantastic video as usual!

[@kirbyallison]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@tonywaters737]

Awesome! Thanks Kirby 🎉. Will make it a must destination when in London

[@Ryclopes_]

i may never ever expensive this side of life of the " well dressed" but its always so fascinating to watch these videos you just learn so much

[@michaelcampbell4503]

Great video. The look of anticipation on Kirby,s face while waiting for his first sip of a Vesper. Priceless!

[@julianparks8485]

Beautiful! A real master of his craft. Thank you both for sharing!

[@boomer0117zr]

Kirby this is brilliant thank you for showing your appreciation for the service industry. I like the cut of your gib young man.

[@roskes]

Amazing video as always. Now we all Kirbylievers will have another stop to visit during the Kirby Allison's Experience in London ❤❤❤

[@johnfranco3866]

Superb video! Well done Kirby. Alessandro is the pantheon of grace and genteel and what a treat that Martini must be!

[@optical-illusion9996]

Pure class, 'shaken not stirred'.

[@williamsoderena]

Always high quality videos with great content!

[@Mark-ww9sb]

As a youngster, I seemed to have a talent for inventing cocktails, standing at the bar. Years later, in the Middle East (yes!) I bought a book on cocktails and all the mixing paraphernalia and thought I would start with the perfect martini. I started by selecting a good gin. I came up with Hendricks. I tried, tried and tried again. I mixed every concievable recipe and didn't mix a single cocktail that was even approaching acceptable. It's not as simple as following a recipe. Next time I'm in London, I'll visit Duke's and try a proper martini. At least I will know what a good one tastes like...

[@philopapos]

Phenomenally done! Definitely a must visit in London! Alessandro's presentation is unparalleled. Cheers!

[@kirbyallison]

Couldn't agree more!

[@Carane94]

Absolutely adore these videos. Anytime Kirby uploads, I relax and toast a cigar and only imagine living a fine life like him

[@shadowfilm7980]

This well hidden bar is fitting with Ian Fleming/James Bond character! This is one of the best and most interesting videos you have made. In my opinion. He was SO great to listen to. ALL that history and knowledge! Did you notice behind Alessandro while he was talking at your table is a cool picture hanging on the wall of Sean Connery wearing his infamous tux! What’s so great about this hidden gem is how Ian Fleming loved this place! Knowing that he had sat there too! I would love to get the Vesper! Looks so good. I must go to this special place! When in London. Thank you for making THIS video. Cheers! 🍸

[@kirbyallison]

Thank you!! 🙏🙏

[@JoseCid_24]

I have watched this video at least three times now... Amazing... Thank you.

[@andrewo5439]

Kirby, an absolutely fantastic video. Thank you!

[@kirbyallison]

Thanks!

[@joshcullum88]

My favourite cocktail bar! Great to see it on this channel

[@theherd5830]

Kirby you always show the simply elegant way of life we all wish for. As someone who could never be elegant, you allow me to dream. But as I make and drink a Martini, I’m transported. Thank you.

[@gabrieleuboldi515]

Fantastic video, thanks a lot!

[@billkeaveney1526]

What a wonderful place, thanks Kirby

[@kirbyallison]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@malte6781]

I once had a Vesper at Dukes right next to you. It was a wonderful evening. Thank you for the fantastic videos.

[@kirbyallison]

Wow! Hopefully, I had the opportunity to say hello! Love this place. I truly do look forward to returning every time I’m in London

[@lc8361]

This is a love story. An amazing appreciation for the art form, style and what this is about.

[@michael028]

Totally enjoyed this, thank you.

[@jonnysandford2220]

I learn so much from this channel, excellent!

[@Liquid_Alchemy]

It is an unforgivable sin to visit London without having a Vesper at the Duke's Bar. I am truly blessed to have been served 'several' over the years by Maestro Alessandro Palazzi.

[@yourfriendteo8963]

The best video you’ve ever made!! Watching it for the third time now. Good job

[@kirbyallison]

Wow, thanks!

[@peace-yv4qd]

Thank you so very much for this video. I never realized that the humble Martini could be elevated to such heights. Nothing makes me so appreciative than a Man who is passionate of his craft. The construction of the perfect Martini. Keep up the good work.

[@kirbyallison]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@juliacahill1822]

Brilliant video - 👏👏 Alessandro is wonderful 💕💕💕

[@kirbyallison]

He’s the best!

[@user-nz8cv8zd2i]

The truly Gentelmen's vibe, CHEERS !

[@juliacahill1822]

Without a doubt my favorite bar because of Alessandro 💕💕💕

[@kirbyallison]

A woman in the know! Alessandro MAKES the bar! Such a kind gentleman and always so friendly and gracious.

[@octavian81]

This was absolutely amazing 😮

[@roughvetter2538]

Excellent view of a bastion of sophistication in a sometimes less than world, bravo.

[@paulbugoni2846]

Fantastico. Pure Class all around!

[@kirbyallison]

Thank you! Alessandro is the best!

[@SopranoPizzaJMFNJ]

Kirby Goes Bond! This Was A Real Treat! Thank You!

[@pacheeswods]

Wonderful episode! Fantastic variety while keeping the lovely theme. Great distractions too while waiting for specific follow up episodes. Yes, I'm waiting for Eddie's 2nd or final fitting. Please please do another vintage hunt with Max Foulkes.

[@kirbyallison]

We’ve already filmed the second fitting with Eddie, so it should be coming soon. And YES to another video with Max… but he’s a hard cat to corner.

[@pacheeswods]

Thank you for the update Kirby! 😊

[@360fanboy360]

truly exceptional

[@billnoll]

"not just chilled, but properly chilled" - love this!

[@SanBrunoBeacon]

Pure, unadulterated class.

[@robshort2780]

Excellent - pure class

[@mazuzuri]

Another masterful video showcasing another gem of london. As a gin lover, this is definitely on my to do list next time i am in london along with a visit to Davidoff of london. On another note, i was pleasantly surprised to see him use Potocki vodka. We had a old family friend who had a distant nephew that is related to the destilleri and thus introduced us to the vodka. One of the best vodkas i have tried so far and can imagine the fabulous taste of that vespa.

[@domingosrobinson2268]

Great video. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

[@antonoat]

Fascinating viewing !

[@isaacsworld9269]

Brilliant. Such nostalgia thanks

[@megasoid]

Love this, wow.

[@simonsharp5123]

That was an absolute joy. The Martini is absolutely singular. There are other greats, but the martini sits outside of everything else. I've never seen it made like that either. Visited the American Bar recently and had a corpse reviver in honour of Harry Craddock, but I am absolutely heading to Duke's next time. Thank you for bringing this to my attention. Wonderful stuff.

[@marcosfigueiredo8515]

Ótimo episódio, ótimas explicações sobre a bebida e claro com muita elegância.

[@garychard3894]

What a fascinating chap. His job is his vocation, so good to see that in these hectic, changeable days.

[@cuteface88]

Your videos are always great.

[@robertowagner8188]

What a great video, I usually walked St James´s street and I passed it for a full year... great video, great channel. I miss London!

[@leightoncooke]

That’s a martini I wanna try. Simple but perfect, and Alessandro is a treasure.

[@kirbyallison]

Couldn't agree more!

[@BigBNorthNJ1968]

I am heading to London for the second time over this Thanksgiving break (My first time was last Thanksgiving and I visited the The Sahakian Lounge (Bulgari Hotel) for a cigar and mentioned your name!). I can't wait to visit Duke's and have a classic martini, intro myself to Alessandro and mention that you had sent me! Thank you for the videos they have been helpful getting around London in style!

[@dougedwardsyachts]

Wonderful to experience through the screen. I was fortunate enough to be shown the experience some years ago and really enjoyed my Dukes 🍸 Martini. You only need the one!

[@kirbyallison]

That is indeed true! I find that 1.5 is really my sweet spot. I always order a second but rarely finish it.

[@gandgpolaroid6406]

Wow amazing video and quality . Alessandro bring a charm and high end experience to the place

[@chucklivinlarge563]

Top notch Kirby. Thank you.

[@BrazilSaint]

As a Distiller I have always been wary of chilling Gin too much, but hearing Alessandro talk about how the flavour develops in The Vesper as it warms has made me rethink this. I need to get a bottle of the Sacred Spirits Amber Vermouth. Sadly, I can find no family ties to Berry Bros & Rudd, so no family discount for me! 😂 A delightful video - thank you.

[@kirbyallison]

Haha. Well, keep searching and let me know if you find my name anywhere in the book. I have a new wine cellar that needs to be filled!