Upstairs at Ronnie’s: A New Chapter for the Iconic Soho Venue | My Soho Times

For over 65 years, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club has been the beating heart of live jazz in London. From Ella Fitzgerald and Nina Simone to Miles Davis, Prince and Dizzy Gillespie, its stage has carried legends and shaped music history night after night.

Earlier this week, I had the privilege of attending the re-opening of Upstairs at Ronnie’s — and witnessing first-hand how this iconic Soho institution is stepping confidently into its next chapter.

Heading up the stairwell, I expected the familiar rebellious, casual vibe that had always distinguished the upstairs space from its sophisticated, legendary sister below. This was the room where punters would often be huddled together, swinging their hips to the music. What greeted me instead was something entirely unexpected: a beautifully reimagined venue that feels intimate, elevated, and purpose-built for live performance.

Upstairs at Ronnie’s re-opening 4th Febuary 2026 | Images: Kai Lutterodt

Upstairs at Ronnies: A Space Reimagined

Gone is the informal dance-floor energy, replaced by plush seating and tightly fitted tables arranged like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle in front of a brand-new stage. The stage itself is a tight squeeze — but, as with all Soho real estate, you pay a pretty penny for every inch. It’s a bougie re-fit, but one that still respects the soul of the club. Dare I say, if you can never get a table downstairs (because it’s always sold out), Upstairs now gives it a serious run for its money.

One of the striking design details of the interior, which my eye kept drawing towards, is the ceiling: adorned with African-print fabric panels that add warmth, texture, and a subtle Afrocentric presence to the space. The fabrics are by Kudhinda, a Zimbabwe-based studio whose hand-screen-printed textiles are produced in Harare using traditional techniques. “Kudhinda” means to press, stamp or print in Shona, and the fabrics —100% cotton and ethically produced —celebrate the strength, colour and pattern of Southern African design. In a room steeped in Black musical history, this detail felt intentional and quietly powerful.

The transformation of Upstairs at Ronnie’s forms part of a major redevelopment of the entire building, led by Archer Humphryes Architects. Enhanced acoustics, high-spec Yamaha and D&B Audio sound and lighting systems, an upgraded stage featuring a Yamaha S3X Grand Piano, and, for the first time, a state-of-the-art kitchen upstairs all contribute to a venue that feels future-facing while honouring its legacy.

The launch menu, curated by newly appointed executive chef Steven Connelly, was fresh and well-balanced. Service flowed impressively well, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the servers weaving between the tables of the tightly packed room.

Upstairs at Ronnie’s re-opening 4th Febuary 2026 | Images: Kai Lutterodt

And then, the music.

The evening was introduced by Jumoké Fashola, a member of Ronnie Scott’s Music Committee. A broadcaster, journalist, vocalist, actor and live literature curator, Jumoké took to the stage wearing a striking blue turban, wrapped high and regal, reaching skyward like a crown. I was genuinely sad to miss the chance to introduce myself before the night ended.

I had my first introduction to Vula Vox & Friends, stepping in at the last minute as headliners, due to Sasha Keable falling ill. Vula Vox — a pocket rocket of soulfulness and raw comedic charm — owned the stage with a natural ease and confidence that comes effortlessly when you’ve been in the game long enough. Special guest NAO also graced the stage, treating us to her ethereal powerhouse vocals, leaving the room buzzing. It was the kind of performance that reminds you why live music — experienced up close — still matters.

Upstairs at Ronnie’s will continue to honour the club’s long-standing reputation for excellence, presenting jazz and jazz-adjacent acts alongside contemporary soul, acoustic R&B, gospel, hip-hop, global music and classical performances. Importantly, the programme also creates space for emerging grassroots talent, with a range of ticket prices designed to keep shows accessible.

Another major addition is The Greene Rooms, a new members’ lounge and arts space created from Ronnie Scott’s former backstage areas. Named in honour of owner Sally Greene, it opens up parts of Ronnie’s history that have never before been accessible to the public, hosting intimate events, artist meet-and-greets, talks and workshops.

This redevelopment marks the most significant transformation of Ronnie Scott’s since its acquisition and reopening by Sally Greene and Michael Watt in 2005. At a time when grassroots music venues across the UK continue to face closures and mounting financial pressure, this investment feels both bold and deeply necessary.

Uff. My soul needed this night!

As a Black woman in Soho, it’s easy to feel erased or under-celebrated. This launch event was a reminder that representation isn’t a “nice to have” — it’s essential (you can’t love the culture without loving its people. I said what I said).

So, to conclude, Upstairs at Ronnie’s is not just a new room. It’s a statement. And it’s an honour to witness, and feel part of, another chapter in the history of this iconic Soho institution.

Tickets for Upstairs at Ronnie’s are now on sale via Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club www.ronniescotts.co.uk

Written by Kai Lutterodt @the.soho.girl | Cover image courtesy of Ronnie Scott’s

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