2 Best Bars in Soho, London

Britain's most famous jazz club has attracted the biggest names—from Stan Getz to Ella Fitzgerald—since opening nearby on Gerrard Street in 1959 (moving to its current location in 1965). It's usually hot and crowded, and thankfully the food and table service are up to par. Bathed in the light of table lamps, the ultracool James Bond vibes can't be beat, despite the sad departure of the eponymous founder and saxophonist, Ronnie Scott, who died back in the late 1990s. A full program of free-form jazz sets and shows takes place every night, with additional late gigs on Friday and Saturday. Reservations are recommended.

This long-established live music venue off Carnaby Street hosts largely local blues musicians and bands as well as some notable international names, that squeeze onto the tiny stage. It's generally hot and sticky, and there's decent bar food of the chili-and-gumbo variety. On most weekday nights, there's no cover charge.