Arguably one of the most famous jazz bars in London, it is clear that most of Ronnie Scott’s clientele are, first and foremost, devoted music fans who have come for the impeccable live entertainment. However, we feel compelled to remind anyone wanting to visit that there is also the chance to dine here, with Ronnie Scott’s menu feeling more like that of a smart, modern restaurant than a gritty dive bar.
Ronnie Scott’s opened its doors in 1959, taking its name from the keen saxophonist who was its founder. The original location was a small basement venue in London’s West End, but it has since moved to find a new home on the bustling streets of Soho. The club is well-known for attracting some of the biggest jazz stars around, while it also often plays host to up-and-coming talent that are on the verge of major success. Although the music here is naturally the main attraction, visitors can also enjoy dinner at Ronnie Scott’s, with every table in the space coming with a view of the stage.
Meals here tend to be served before any of the acts step up on stage, so don’t fret about missing some of the performance because you were choking on a green bean. In fact, while many live music venues let things slip when it comes to their food, the menu at Ronnie Scott’s is actually far better than it needs to be. Options you can enjoy from the à la carte include the likes of smoked halibut topped with pressed caviar, and 55-day aged steaks which are served alongside Portobello mushroom, tomato and fries.
You can also stop by here on the weekends for a three-course Sunday lunch. Start off with the soup of the day, before feasting on a traditional roast with all of the trimmings, and finishing up with banoffee tart.