Jazz is anything but old-fashioned. It’s transformative, fluctuating, taking listeners backwards and forwards in time as if via a temporal rift, altering their understanding of where they are, and what it is they’re listening to. Jazz may have been conceived outside the UK, but in London, it's more than made itself at home.
The city boasts no shortage of legendary clubs solely dedicated to the sub-genre of music. The likes of Ronnie Scott’s will instantly spring to mind for any avid fan of the music that frequents the city for their fix. But all around the city, jazz music is very much alive and thriving outside some of the bigger clubs and establishments, with the following bars remaining a shoe-in for those wanting to enjoy jazz in all of its forms.
Nightjar
Nightjar sits in a basement just off Old Street, reached through an unmarked door and a narrow stairwell, channelling the feel of a 1920s speakeasy. Within the moody basement, low lighting casts distinct shadows, with flickering candles and rich leather upholstery punctuating the space. Were this a few decades ago, one would expect the haze of cigar and cigarette smoke to cloak the room, but now, the only fumes guests may encounter are those infused with delicious cocktails, part of a list that has been meticulously cherry-picked from the best concoctions of the golden age of jazz.
Early evening sets lean toward swing and a slower pace, while later in the night the music dips into blues and more brass and big band tempos. There’s a cover charge for the live music, but it’s modest compared to full clubs, and bar snacks replace the need for a heavy dining affair a la the likes of Ronnie Scott's. Additionally, with Nobu within a short walk, Nightjar in Shoreditch is a perfect after-dinner activity for those taken with the vibrant sounds of jazz, but owing to the bar’s popularity, booking a table in advance is strongly recommended.
Scarfes Bar
A cross between a grand library and a private members’ lounge, within the confines of the Rosewood Hotel, Scarfes feels like a meeting of minds and moods. From the deep velvet armchairs and antique rug, to the well-filled bookcases that line the walls, it gives off the impression of a grand stately home more than the stomping ground for nightly live jazz trios and quartets.
This is a jazz space where the music is allowed to linger, without outright dominating the setting, offering a more conversational approach to the evening. As such, the walk-in policy is very accessible, with plenty of tables available each night of the week, and tantalising cocktail service from the grand old bar that occupies the back of the room. Ideal for softer jazz enthusiasts wanting to enjoy the music without getting caught up in the performance.
Louie London’s Alligator Bar
Louie London’s Alligator Bar brings the rambunctious blare of New Orleans to the heart of Covent Garden. As is to be expected, the décor is a mix of the French colonial and modern American influences, with Tuesday nights bringing a rotating line-up of musicians who lean toward soulful and bluesy interpretations that are befitting of the setting. As this establishment sits above the restaurant, the crowd is usually a mix of restaurant goers and casual regulars, lending the place a breezy atmosphere, where the crowd comes and goes.
Whilst not the most raucous of venues, the Alligator Bar offers a suitably thematic evening of entertainment. The drinks and food flow with the richness of classic Deep South flavours, from seafood platters and Cajun-spiced dishes to whiskey and rum cocktails. It’s a thematic establishment that’s ideal for introducing newcomers to the rich sounds of jazz, born out of the soul of the blues from the southern states of America.
Oriole
Nestled under Smithfield Market lies Oriole, softly lit with globe lamps and deep in the sounds, flavours and scents of Latin America. Twice nightly live sets bring in jazz and swing bands that deliver all the usual pump and power of a classic jazz night, which is further elevated by Oriole’s embrace of both the traditional and fused elements of the cuisine of South and Central American nations.
The drinks list is one of the most creative in the city, with elaborate garnishes and glassware that takes inspiration from all around the world. Food is served on small plates ideal for grazing, offering classic dishes from Nikkei, Argentine-Italian, and Mexican cuisine that pull no punches on flavour. Oriole’s late licence on weekends makes it a favourite for those who like staying up into the small hours to enjoy the big bold sounds and flavours of Oriole.
The Piano Bar
A members’ bar with limited public access, The Piano Bar in Soho offers a more exclusive alternative to the classic jazz bar that's in keeping with the area’s reputation as a hub for intimate, but private experiences. Stepping inside the candlelit space, dominated by a magnificent grand piano, the rich, throaty sounds of live vocalists and pianists tickling the ivory keys create a moody lounge-style setting.
Despite the exclusiveness of this small-seating establishment, day passes are available, making it very accessible for those wanting to embrace the intimate setting. Cocktails focus on the classics, made with the finest quality spirits, which do well to further enhance the moody and soulful atmosphere. For a calmer, living-room style jazz experience, this is as rare a find in Soho as it is anywhere else in London.
