Top Club
I made a long awaited return to Johnny Gold’s Tramp on Jermyn Street this week - what a terrific venue! This is the club where Keith Moon danced naked on a table and OJ Simpson came over to celebrate after his acquittal. It’s also played host to Sir Elton, Princess Anne, Zsa Zsa Gabor and Frank Sinatra over its long history, not to mention holding the wedding receptions for ill-fated marriages of both Joan Collins and Liza Minnelli. Don’t expect modern mojitos or cutting edge tunes, instead Tramp is about exclusivity and knowing you got in where no one else can.
Top Bar
I’ve rekindled an old love affair this week, with bar Under The Westway at the Westbourne Studios. The future of London architecture, this intelligent building winds its way around the A40 with the road above forming part of the roof and a feature graffiti wall at one end being part of the original supporting structure. I have a longlasting and passionate adoration of the cucumber and elderflower margarita (Patron silver, Cointreau, cucumber, elderflower and lime), and at just £7 they won’t break the bank. The best thing here is the urban, edgy vibe that sets it apart from other West London boozers.
Top 5
1. Punk
Deservedly back at my top spot, Punk celebrated a year of Smash’n’Grab last week and held its fashionista favourite Black Balloon event on Wednesday. Don’t miss the weekend for more!
2. Embassy London
I got a tour recently to check out Mark Fuller’s refurbishment – check it out yourselves on Friday for their Miami South Beach party.
3. Kabarets Prophecy
Expensive drinks and a tiny capacity does nothing to dent the popularity of this West End favourite – I love sparkly lights and crystal-lined bar.
4. Green Carnation
Celebrating its first birthday this week with a visit from the uber-cool Puppini Sisters, this is fast becoming a favourite.
5. Buddha Bar
Scraping into the chart, Buddha Bar doesn’t live up to its Paris namesake. Nonetheless, it’s a worthy addition to the London social scene with its cool interior design and those mouthwatering cocktails.