Tempus Bar

I popped into Tempus Bar (part of the impressive looking Hotel Russell on Russell Square) as it looked like a good place for a nightcap. It has the look of a gentleman’s club/​library with high ceilings, armchairs and dark wood.
It had a bit of a mixed atmosphere, probably as it is a hotel bar, and as I approached the bar I was immediately cut off by a waitress asking for my order. I prefer to have a moment to see what is available so it was a bit off putting.
They had a decent enough selection of drinks, and I ordered a Bulleit, and am I glad I ordered a single rather than a double!
Initially I had to share a round table with a couple, but then found a nice corner area with wing chairs and a view of the fireplace.
It looks nice, but just lacks any personality, despite being in such an impressive room. Drink selection is fairly good, but a little expensive,

This bar is attached to Hotel Russell, where I was staying on a trip to London. I stopped in for dessert and a nightcap. The décor is nice, and has a den or lounge feeling with really tall ceilings. It was really quiet with about six staff members in sight.
At my table, the server took my order — plum crumble dessert, Talisker neat. I was really disappointed with the dessert. It looked like a dish that made its way to the plate via freezer and microwave, with a vanilla sauce poured straight from a box. The single malt was the highlight of this visit.
When the staff brought the bill, I noticed they tacked on a 12% «service fee». Haha OK. It was a small (yet inflated) bill anyway, so I didn’t feel it was worth a conversation.
I liked the setting but otherwise this was not a good experience. Plenty of other choices in the vicinity — explore your options!