Tag: Soho
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The Messina Brothers: Soho’s Kings of Vice
If you were looking for the dark heart of 1950s Soho, you didn’t need to go far—just follow the money, the girls, or the frightened men stuffing cash into brown envelopes. At the centre of it all were the Messina Brothers, five Maltese siblings who ran one of London’s most infamous vice empires. Their business? Prostitution, extortion,…
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Soho George: Icon and Enigma
In the bustling, art-infused streets of Soho, one figure stands out—a man dressed impeccably, often seen in tailored suits, an embodiment of charm and style. This is George Skeggs, known far and wide as “Soho George.” A true fixture in the neighborhood, George is much more than a local celebrity; he’s an artist, a style…
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Leigh Bowery: The Living Art of London’s Underground
London in the 1980s was a time of rebellion, experimentation, and transformation, and Leigh Bowery stood at the very heart of it all. An artist, designer, nightclub promoter, and provocateur, Bowery didn’t just break the mold—he redefined it. His life and work were an exuberant spectacle of colour, controversy, and creativity, cementing his place as…
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Bar Italia: The Beating, Caffeinated Heart of Soho
Bar Italia is less a cafe and more a cultural institution; it’s Soho distilled into an espresso shot, steeped in the rich Italian tradition, with a twist of classic British eccentricity. Opened in 1949 by the Polledri family, this little spot at 22 Frith Street isn’t just about coffee — it’s about the particular magic…
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The French House: Continental Bohemia in Soho
Tucked away on Dean Street in London’s vibrant Soho, The French House is much more than just a pub. It’s a living piece of history, a meeting place for artists, writers, politicians, and everyone in between. Known for its no-nonsense charm, commitment to French style, and quirky rules, The French House is both a local…
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The Soho Waiter’s Race
The Waiters’ Race of Soho, also known as the Soho Waiters’ Race, is a quirky and beloved tradition that captures the vibrant spirit of one of London’s most iconic neighborhoods. This eccentric competition sees waiters from Soho’s restaurants and cafés race through the bustling streets, all while balancing trays laden with drinks or other items. The…
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Soho’s Sleazy History
In the heart of London, where the city’s vibrant energy and seedy underbelly collide, lies Soho. This compact, bustling district has long been a hotbed of creativity, rebellion, and, yes, sleaze. Soho’s history is a kaleidoscope of illicit affairs, underground clubs, and characters as colourful as the neon lights that have adorned its streets for…