The best jazz bars in Soho

This legendary jazz club has a rich history dating back to 1959 and is renowned for hosting icons like Miles Davis and Ella Fitzgerald. It's a cornerstone of music history, but beyond jazz, the club embraces other diverse genres and late-night jam sessions. You can also enjoy the live music with classic dishes and cocktails in a speakeasy setting.

The Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho is part of the chain's Live initiative and has become a renowned music venue with nearly 50 years of history. It's recognised as one of Europe's top jazz clubs and houses an intimate basement that has hosted debut performances by Gregory Porter and Norah Jones, along with legends like Sting, Amy Winehouse, Sam Smith, and Charlie Watts. There's a live music programme seven days a week and a pizzeria upstairs.

The Piano Bar Soho is an award-winning hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Soho. This intimate lounge sets the stage for nightly live performances, with jazz stealing the spotlight most evenings. Enjoy classic cocktails while soaking up the laid-back vibe. It's the perfect spot for a night out.

This cosy, iconic live music venue in the heart of Soho is known for its nightly lineup of jazz, blues, funk, soul, and R&B. It has hosted legendary guests, including the late Amy Winehouse, and by day, the venue transforms into a gallery, showcasing celebrity portraits by resident artist Sam Shaker. The bar serves cocktails alongside a menu of tapas-style bites and larger dishes to keep you fuelled. 

Trisha's, also known as the New Evaristo Club, is a legendary jazz dive tucked behind an unassuming blue door in Soho. You'll find a cosy, no-frills bar down the rickety stairs with a rich history—it was once a gambling hot spot. It's attracted famous faces like Anthony Bourdain and Jarvis Cocker over the years, yet it remains unpretentious.

Gerry's Club is one of London's quintessential private members' clubs, rich in history and a sanctuary for actors, writers, and creatives. It captures the essence of old Soho, offering members a variety of cultural events, including live music, art exhibits, and film screenings. The membership fees are also unexpectedly affordable.

The Crazy Coqs is a hidden gem tucked away within the Art Deco elegance of Brasserie Zédel. It's a hot spot for theatre and music lovers and offers a lively lineup of cabaret, concerts, comedy, magic shows, and literary events. Enjoy cocktails, fine wines, and other drinks, along with a selection of tasty snacks—all served directly to your table before or after the show

The Jazz Cafe offers more than just jazz, hosting an eclectic lineup of soul, hip-hop, reggae, and more. This iconic Camden venue also transforms into a club on certain nights, playing tunes well into the early hours. There's also an upstairs restaurant where you can dine with an unobstructed view of the stage.

Alfie's Soho is a private members' club inspired by the beloved resident cat at The Piano Bar. It was once a sixties costume design hub, perfectly encapsulating the vibes of Soho's swinging sixties. While jazz takes centre stage, it also showcases year-round art exhibitions when music isn't the focus. This members-only spot offers incredible value—membership grants access to every show with half-price tickets.

Nightjar Carnaby is a sophisticated speakeasy located in the heart of London's vibrant West End. It brings a slice of Prohibition-era glamour to the West End and serves a cocktail menu that takes guests on a journey through history, featuring drinks dating back to the 1600s. Guests can enjoy an eclectic lineup of live jazz, swing, blues, and funk music every night, all while sipping on cocktails in an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a different era.