33. Friday Nights Piano Night in London

I first came across the Piano Bar a year ago. After a rubbish day at the office a friend suggested we go for a quiet drink. Several bottles of wine and a rendition of Rocket Man later, we resurfaced on High Street Kensington! With charismatic players, fantastic tunes and decent priced drinks (£16 for bottle house wine) the piano bar has fast become my “go to” location for post work drinks, girly catch ups and first dates.

Situated above a shop, directly opposite High Street Ken station, this place doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside is a different story. The premise of the piano bar is simple – live music all night long, usually 2 sets by different pianists. Open from 18.00 it caters for the after work crowd, serving tapas and playing more mellow tunes. It is small with only about 12 tables, so booking a table is advisable if you want to eat or are a large group. Given how busy it gets, tables can only be reserved until 8pm and they will give your table away if you are late!

After 9pm is when the fun really starts. The second set is livelier, and the atmosphere really reflects this, as an influx of people suddenly appear out of nowhere. A mix of well known contemporary music and classic favourites in a jazz style is played. Most importantly requests can be made! On  a Friday and Saturday Michael G Moore really draws in the crowds so get there early to avoid being turned away. Once Michaell gets going, the place soon turns into a group sing song and before you know it it is one o’clock and you are swaying arm in arm with strangers to Wonderwall

A true gem! Once you’ve experienced this place you’ll always have a little something in your back pocket for a Friday night….

Author: Rebecca Shepheard-Walwyn