Still a cut above much of what Hoxton Square has to offer, bluu is a great fusion of trendy with friendly. Often copied, there are few that do it better.

The Venue
bluu can be found at number one Hoxton Square, in a large red brick building approached by steep steps - just a few minutes round the corner from Old Street station.

Nothing has changed since its previous incarnation as Blue Note, but this place pioneered the exposed brickwork, modern art, mellow lighting, and battered couches that are now abundant in even the tackiest chain bars. While it might not be unique anymore, it’s well kept and still attractive, and there’s a downstairs basement area with a DJ at weekends.

The Atmosphere
Attracting the skinny jean and Converse sneaker brigade, bluu is well beloved by a cool, chilled out crowd of East London fashionistas. The staff are really friendly, keen to chat up the punters and, at weekends, the DJ plays a decent if predictable mix of house and R’n’B tunes. It gets busy at the weekends, but due to the cosy sofas and large space it doesn’t feel as crowded as other venues on the Square.

The Food
bluu offers a decent menu of tasty snack food, as well as a more substantial range of main courses. With light bites like freshly baked bread and decent olives from just £2, those who want something heavier can sample modern European dishes such as fillet steak, chilli linguine or swordfish.

The Drink
bluu has a decent cocktail list, house wine from £13 a bottle, and a large selection of bottled beers and house spirits. The highlight is, of course, the Bluuberry Daiquiri - priced at £7. It doesn’t disappoint, with subtle sweetness and a huge measure of rum for an extremely potent kick.

The Last Word
bluu can lay claim to having once been a pioneer in making Hoxton as fashionable as it is now, but these days it’s settled into laidback coolness and doesn’t try too hard. This sets it apart from so much of what East London has to offer, so if you’re only going to one bar on the Square, make it this one!

venue information venue map view london review user reviews (5)