The team behind The Piano Works has just opened live music venue Studio 88 near Leicester Square. The premise is similar to the original: guests scribble down their requests on bar napkins, and the six-piece house band will bring it to life from the central stage.
Groups of six to 30 can take over booths in the main space, while the 100-capacity Blue Room is a serious draw for private bookings: there’s a separate bar, baby grand piano and DJ station. As for teambuilding opportunities, bookers can choose between 90-minute cocktail masterclasses and hour-long choir lessons.
We also like that the interactive theme has crossover with the design – expect light-up, musically synced tables and LED fixtures that respond according to the melodies.
Food menus are well suited to standing events, as everything from miso pork to coconut chicken curry is served from usherette boxes in easy-to-hold, bamboo cones.