2 Best Nightlife in Chelsea, London

Established in 1976, this Chelsea jazz club embraced speakeasy style long before it became a nightlife trend. Buzz the door near the far end of King's Road and you'll find a basement venue showcasing mainstream and contemporary jazz by well-known U.K.-based musicians. Alcohol can only be served if you order a "substantial meal" as well, so allow for an extra £30. Reservations are advisable. Lunchtime jazz takes place on select Sundays; call ahead.

The front patio and wood-paneled bar of this traditional pub next door to Charles Dickens's former residence is invariably crowded, especially after work, but the restaurant to the rear is comfortable and more peaceful. Dishes range from elevated pub classics like burgers with bone marrow crumb or cider-battered fish-and-chips to more sophisticated offerings like venison ragù or celeriac steak. Standards, of both the cooking and the selection of beer and wines, are high. Service is friendly, if occasionally erratic.