London's Top 3 Jazz Bars

The finest jazz bars in London to guarantee a great night out!

With so many inviting establishments in London for listening to live jazz, blues and soul it can feel like an overwhelming choice. With that in mind we’ve listed below our favourite venues where a spectacular evening is guaranteed.

First up is a unique and relatively unknown bar tucked away just off Dean Street. From the outside this unassuming townhouse looks void of life but the performances inside are anything but. Seating is squeezed into every corner of this charming rabbit warren which helps create an intimate, friendly atmosphere.

Tickets are moderately-priced, typically ranging from £5-15. An absolute steal for the experience.

The Piano Bar doesn’t serve food (when you see the way waiters contort themselves to get round the tables you’ll understand why) so we’d advise filling up beforehand. La Porchetta on Old Compton Street serves large portions of terrific pasta so would be a solid choice! 

The range of cocktails, beers and wines is small but sufficient. Our personal favourite? The smoked old-fashioned.

Address: 16 Carlisle St, London W1D 3BT
Nearest tube: Tottenham Court Road

Amongst the hubbub of Dalston’s vintage shops, late-night bars and Turkish eateries sits this lively gem of a jazz club. From Thursday to Saturday each week Dalston Jazz Bar treats listeners to sparkling solos, vibrant voices and well-timed trios.

The venue is free entry but drink-only tables are typically seated around the corner where the band are nearly out of sight until the kitchen has closed or other punters have made way. Although when waiting for others to vacate the best tables one can expect rather a long wait!

Food is served from a simple rotating menu after which, in a twist that resembles a social experiment, you pay what you think the meal deserves. The drinks here perfectly compliment the bubbly atmosphere - good craft beer and full-bodied wine - and are served late into the night.

Address: 4 Bradbury Street, London N16 8JN

Nearest tube: Dalston Kingsland

A stalwart of the Soho jazz scene, Ronnie’s is an absolute institution with bags of history. Some of the greatest jazz musicians of all time have graced the main stage here from Oscar Peterson to Miles Davis. True blues fans will also recognise the venue as the stage where Jimi Hendrix lamentably gave his last performance.

The acts take place downstairs where seats are ticketed and in reasonably high demand. Framed photos of past guests adorn the walls and when the first note rings out the hushed atmosphere is magical.

Elsewhere, the food is excellent and a superb range of drinks is available until late. You could even head to the upstairs bar after the performance for a more relaxed, speakeasy vibe or a dance (depending on the DJ set playing).

Address: 47 Frith St, London W1D 4HT
Nearest tube: Tottenham Court Road

There you have it. Wherever you end up, have a great evening folks!

If you fancy a Ronnie Scott's poster or another of our Vintage Music Posters to hang your wall, take a look at our shop.

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London has so much on offer it can feel overwhelming. Don't end up disappointed with your night out, check our list of the top 3 jazz bars you won't want to miss.