Despite major moves upmarket in recent years, our (purely theoretical) research reveals that Soho is still the best place to go in London to buy a shag. The number of prostitutes – or “Toms” – roaming the streets may be down, but the area’s sex trade isn’t quite finished yet, and the developers behind Old Tom & English chose to tip the wink to Soho’s colourful side in their choice of name, as well as referencing a popular gin recipe from the 18th Century. Saucy devils.
Product and interior design prodigy Lee Broom was handed a free rein for this place on Wardour Street, and he’s responsible for the whole experience including the branding and even the front of house concept, which reflects, he says “the personal service I like to receive”. No sniggering at the back. But childishness aside, this is a classy, grown-up venue, based around the idea of home entertaining circa the 1960s. To get in, guests must ring the doorbell and enter through the hidden hatch of a heavy wooden door. After that there is a choice of seating in the bar, lounge, or one of five personal snugs, where period features such as the vertical wooden panelling sit amid a muted grey palette lifted by brass accents, red carpet and glowing fireplaces. All very cosy…
