Bar Soho, Soho, W1

Undoubtedly rebuilt in the 19th century, this dates from earlier in the century originally as the Kings Arms, later Hibernia Stores, Helvetia Hotel then Soho Brasserie, the name still visible to the parapet. It’s located right in the heart of Gay Soho, but doesn’t market itself as a gay venue; certainly, it’s not shoved in your face. The interior is mildly industrial, with a flagstone floor, mixed furniture with some booth in style, a few seats fashioned from fairground attractions. Walls are a graffiti montage (see photo) and a bit contrived with notable items being old TVs above the metal topped bar emitting an eerie blue glow, further décor in the form of old sweets jars; there’s disco lighting and a DJ was playing loud [c]rap music. Customers were mixed, some obviously gay, then young office workers in high spirits. No cask, a half of Brixton Low Voltage costing £3.85 served by a friendly barmaid. This makes for something largely similar to all the other venues in the immediate vicinity, with a minimum 12.30am – 3.00am licence.

Unbelievably dark inside the one room with the bar to the right. No real ale - just keg.

Official site of Bar Soho - www.barsoho.co.uk