Violets is a cocktail bar alongside the Mediterranean Cafe run by Ali Aksu, who looks out for all of us locals.

Recently, he had an amazing jazz duo bring life and spirit to our street. It felt like a cafe abroad. The doors were open, and even though it was fresh, the locals sat and marinated in the sounds of the bar. The merriment continued until a reasonable hour and even though I live above the bar, it didn’t worry me. I so enjoyed the sounds of people having a good time. Why else would I live in Soho?

Violets is named after Violet Tryatt, a legendary woman who has lived 93 years within throwing distance of Violets. She’s seen us through the war and beyond, imparting advice on issues from work situations to lovers lost. She’s a sage. 

Ali looks after us. He’s a friend to many of us locals. He brings much-needed spirit and life and community to Berwick Street, which otherwise could be a building site. 

Please don’t stop an independent cornerstone of our community from doing the job of keeping us together. Let alone looking after the critical tourism market in our street.  

Don’t let a resident complaint stop us from enjoying a Soho fiesta. Our side of the story needs to be heard too. It’s our Soho too. It’s so Soho!  

Or do you want another soulless and compliant Pret A Manger? I don’t.