One of Soho’s most famous bars was saved today but saw its licence temporarily suspended after a lengthy review by Westminster Council, in a hearing witnessed by the Standard.
On July 6, Westminster Council’s licensing sub-committee decided to suspend Trisha’s for a period of 14 days, during which the management will be required to make improvements to the club.
The 80-year-old New Evaristo Club, better-known as Trisha’s after its Italian matriarch Trisha Bergonzi, was threatened with closure after complaints by neighbours.
Its suspension is effective immediately, and requires the management to co-operate with police in ensuring all health, safety, and operational measures are adhered to.
These include the implementation of a digital members’ list, tighter security, and more robust staff training.
Speaking to the Standard after the hearing, Danny Bergonzi ackowledged that the suspension period was “not too bad” and said he and his family would take the time to reset and take stock.
Residents in Soho had written to the council with claims of unruly patrons, noise, and drug use. The Met Police, whose officers attended the meeting on July 6, said the basement club, now the oldest in Soho, has been found to be unsafe and said management were operating in breach of licensing rules.
News that Trisha’s might see its licence revoked sparked a wave of support from regulars and sometime visitors.
One supporter said: "This bar is a much loved and historic place that is crucially important as one of the last remnants of ‘Old Soho’." In many other European cities venues such as these are treasured and protected as they are seen as integral to the character of the city .
“Venues like this tell the story of Soho. And they are rapidly disappearing. Please safeguard this wonderful welcoming establishment for the enjoyment and delight of future generations both Londoners and visitors to our city."
Over the years, Amy Winehouse, Led Zeppelin, Anthony Bourdain, and Marco Pierre White have patronized the premises. Bourdain once called it the “Dean Martin of drinking establishments.”
At the review, councillors heard about claims of criminal activity at Trisha’s, including a visit from a police officer who visited in April to investigate an alleged drink spiking.
But they also heard that Trisha’s “does not have a high volume of crime associated with it” and listened to Mr Bergonzi who said he has been working towards ensuring the club is a safer environment for members and guests.
Councillor Aicha Less, the deputy leader and cabinet member for Communities, Public Protection and Licensing, said in a statement sent to the Standard: “This decision gives Trisha’s sufficient time to make the necessary changes set out by the licensing sub-committee to ensure the venue can operate safely and legally.
“The committee has considered legitimate concerns raised about safety from residents, the police and city inspectors but has also taken into account the willingness from the owner to make changes to preserve a historic Soho venue and unique part of Westminster’s heritage.
“The conditions from the license sub-committee highlight considerable changes in conduct and practice that need to happen in order to meet the minimum standards of the licence agreement.”
This article was updated on July 7 to include a statement from the council.
