Swanky London nightclub offers free $3K cocktails, but there's one catch: You need a gold medal
LONDON – Olympic gold medalists are being treated to an exclusive alcoholic cocktail priced at more than $3,000 by one of London's trendiest nightclubs.
Stars such as swimmers Ryan Lochte and Chad le Clos have joined a swath of fellow Olympians by descending upon the fashionable Chinawhite club in the heart of London, a popular hangout for celebrities and millionaire soccer stars.
In celebration of the Olympics, Chinawhite's bartender invented a special golden cocktail, which is being sold, appropriately, for £2,012 ($3,117.48). Unless, of course, you are one of the gold medalists invited to the club's VIP area, in which case a lavish surprise awaits.
The drink contains Hennessy Paradis Imperial cognac, Luxor 24-carat gold leaf Champagne, plus a set of handmade 18-carat gold rings placed in the bottom of the glass.
Any Olympic athlete is allowed in the club, needing only to show his or her Games accreditation. Olympic champions also are handed a bottle of Moët & Chandon Champagne, with sparklers coming out the top, and the partying continues until around 4 a.m.
Leading DJs such as Paul Oakenfold have played sets – as did men's 200-meter backstroke gold medalist Tyler Clary.
[ Related: Full video coverage of the 2012 Olympic Games ]
"The athletes have been preparing for this for years, so it is great for us to provide them with a place where they can let their hair down and enjoy themselves," said the club's director James Spallone. "We make sure they have a great time and have some special memories of London to take home. The golden cocktail is our special creation, and we have given some away. Every night we have a presentation for the gold medalists, and it has been very well received."
Chinawhite has been the most popular nightspot among the Olympians over the past week. It is hosting its Games parties in conjunction with the Last Lap, an Australian company that provides athlete-specific entertainment at major events.
Whereas the center of London was effectively deserted when compared to its normal bustle early in the Olympics, the crowds have returned over the past few days. The influx of athletes heading to the city's nightspots has certainly helped trade, with many fans venturing into the busiest areas hoping to catch a glimpse of the heroes of the Games.
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