The ViewLondon Review
Ruby Lo is a real find amid the plethora of over-priced, suit-infested venues that populate the West End. Tucked away behind Selfridges, it provides a basement oasis away from the crowds and chaos of Oxford Street.
Music is a fundamental part of Ruby Lo and the bar is billed as the next stage in the evolution of the DJ bar concept. Since it opened a string of top names have played out from the intimate DJ booth which is almost inseparable from the dance floor.
There is an enjoyably seedy feel pervading this underground joint. The décor is, unsurprisingly, predominantly red with an integrated dancefloor and bar area that works surprisingly well. Punters are often spied getting down to some serious booty shaking while waiting for one of the excellent cocktails.
The vibe is pure energy at Ruby. A raised seating area creates a welcome chill out space with squidgy banquettes where couples can cosy up, singles can make new acquaintances and weary ravers can recover in style. On popular nights the distinction between spaces blurs and gyrating limbs fill all available space.
Part of Ruby Lo’s popularity stems from its chameleonic ability to morph throughout the evening from an after work cocktail pit-stop to late night drinking den with a helpful 2am licence. Unlike other so-called DJ bars, Ruby Lo succeeds at blending all the best elements of a club and bar together in one potent mix.
The music policy covers all the best in hip-hop, beats and breaks with the cream of the UK scene lining up to play at Rodney P and Skitz’s regular Showsomelove nights. The Scratch Perverts, Nextmen and Howie are just some of the names who’ve lit up this basement bar.
Recent highlights include the launch of Ninja Tune’s Solid Steel nights with a collective of DJ’s who have been peddling musical mayhem over the airwaves for the last sixteen years and have elected Ruby Lo as the stage for their first official residency. The venue is habitually rammed by nine o’clock so early arrival is a must.
Since it opened praise has been heaped on Ruby Lo for offering top tunes, mind-altering cocktails and social shenanigans in a refreshingly laid-back setting. Drinks are no less or more expensive than you might expect and it’s far enough away from Shoreditch to protect against a mullet invasion. Ruby Lo is a true gem.