Scarfe’s Bar, Rosewood Hotel, London W.C.1.

Calling all jazz enthusiasts!

I have discovered a wonderful bar, with probably more bottles on the backbar than I have ever seen, bookshelves full of antique books, comfy armchairs, Gerald Scarfe illustrations, and best of all, a great jazz group who play there most evenings from 8 till midnight.

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Nick and Kitty are a husband and wife team, who call themselves “Nick of Time” He plays the piano and she sings and plays (small) drums and they are most entertaining. Their repertoire consists of jazz standards, some of Nick’s own compositions and any jazz pieces you ask them to play. I requested Satin Doll – which threw them a bit as far as the words were concerned – but I wasn’t expecting the lyrics anyway! Sometimes they are joined by a third musician, who last time I was there was an excellent saxophonist

The bar is part of the Rosewood Hotel, which is a chain recently bought by Chinese investors (again!) which also owns the Carlyle Hotel in New York, another great mecca of jazz.   So Kitty and Nick are hoping that they will get to play a gig there in the not too distant future!

The entrance to the bar is a wonderful old revolving door which takes you back to the era of gracious hotels and helpful staff. And this is exactly what you find at Scarfe’s bar. A welcoming décor, friendly staff, good drinks and bar snacks and best of all, great jazz.