Ace Cafe London, Stonebridge Park, NW10

Tris C left this review about Ace Cafe London

This legendary venue dates from 1938, was rebuilt in 1949 following World War II bombing, closed in 1969 to reopen in 2001. It has a cult following not just amongst MODs and Rockers but also petrolheads, featuring in films such as The Leather Boys and on TV in the likes of Fifth Gear, By Any Means and Long Way Down; boasting an approved premises licence for marriages and civil ceremonies, it was also the starting point for the Dave Myers memorial ride.
Hardly in the most inviting location, though at least just a short walk from Stonebridge Park tube, the car park was home to quite a few bikes and cars that wouldn’t have looked out of place in American Graffiti at the time of my Wednesday visit approaching 9.00pm. The interior looks suitably authentic, with a striking original burgundy and cream chequerboard lino floor, including much Two-Tone chequered tiling, an expanse of glazing, probably from the likes of Crittall, then a smoky blue ceiling. Furniture is extremely basic wooden canteen-style tables, then polypropylene Robin Day-style chairs. A loud bebop band was playing and many of the typically old and Rocker-looking crowd were dancing away, others munching on traditional canteen furniture
There’s no cask and aside from Boddington’s keg, there was a selection along the lines of Budweiser and Stella, my half of Guinness – served in a plastic cup – at a steep £3.50 a half, served by an unmemorable barman.
There’s certainly something different here, probably best appreciated on an event day or live music night, when entertainment extends to 2.00am.

On 5^th September 2024 - rating: 7
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