Ain't Nothin But The Blues Bar
Cocktail Bar | London | England | United Kingdom
Authentic blues bar in London
"Ain't Nothin' But The Blues Bar" is a legendary cocktail bar and live music venue located in the Soho district of London, England. It is considered the city's original blues bar and has established itself as a staple in the music scene since opening in 1993. Independently operated, the venue is dedicated exclusively to blues music and offers live performances seven days a week—a concept that sets it apart from other bars in the area. The bar has a loyal following among music lovers and is often described as an authentic piece of blues culture amidst modern, commercial London.
Live music events in Soho
The interior of "Ain't Nothin' But" is small and intimate, which contributes to both its charm and its challenges. The space is narrow, with a tiny stage in one corner that is little more than a raised platform. Dark wood, blues posters on the walls, and dim lighting create an atmosphere reminiscent of the juke joints in the American South. The capacity is limited, and on busy nights—especially on weekends—it quickly fills up, forcing guests to stand or secure a spot at the bar. There are no large seating areas or extravagant decorations; the focus is clearly on the music. The restrooms are located down a steep staircase in the basement, which can pose a small hurdle for some visitors.
Cocktail bar with blues music
The drink selection is solid but not overly complex. Alongside a range of well-kept beers, including Adnams Ales from Suffolk, there is a small cocktail menu featuring classics that remain affordable—a plus in an expensive area like Soho. Whisky and other spirits are also available, while the food is limited to snacks like chips or nuts, as the bar does not emphasize culinary offerings. The venue is particularly known for its early evening happy hour, which allows free entry, while later in the evening—usually from 8:30 PM on Thursdays to Saturdays—a cover charge of about £5 to £6 is enforced. Prices are often perceived as fair, making the bar accessible to a wide audience.
Small intimate music bar London
Music is the heart of "Ain't Nothin' But." Two bands perform daily, with three on weekends, and the famous blues jams on Sunday afternoons and Monday evenings invite musicians to join in spontaneously—a tradition regarded as one of the best jams in London. The artists range from local talents to internationally recognized names like Big Joe Louis or Lewis Cohen, and occasionally legends like Prince, B.B. King, or Amy Winehouse have performed here. The lineup is strictly focused on blues and rock blues, making the bar a paradise for genre fans. The proximity to the stage ensures an intense experience, even if the volume and tight space might not be to everyone’s liking.
Happy hour blues bar Soho
The audience is diverse: young students, older blues enthusiasts, tourists, and locals come together, united by their love of music. The atmosphere is often described as friendly, open, and relaxed, with the bar also attracting international visitors who draw parallels to old blues venues in the USA. Service is usually positively highlighted—the staff is friendly and attentive, even though it can get hectic on busy nights. However, there are some criticisms: some guests have reported rude behavior from certain bouncers or long wait times outside, especially when the bar is crowded. The lack of accessibility and the condition of the restrooms are also occasionally mentioned negatively.
