License Suspension and Mysterious Offense
The club's license has been suspended by Westminster City Council following a request from the Metropolitan Police. Despite inquiries, neither the police nor the club itself has shed light on the "serious criminal offence" that led to its closure. This is not the first time the venue has faced claims of illegality, raising questions about its past operations.In its heyday, an upstairs room was infamous for its alleged availability of cocaine. Such a reputation is a far cry from its original vision of being a place where creatives could mingle freely. The club, founded in 1985, aimed to be a "new kind of club" open to anyone based on merit, but it seems to have strayed from its roots.
Membership was once highly sought after, with rules such as two current members having to propose a new applicant and a strict prohibition on mobile phone use after 5 pm. However, even being a celebrity did not guarantee entry. The Spice Girls were rejected, and Al Pacino was turned away unrecognized. These incidents highlight the changing dynamics of the club and the importance of certain criteria.
The Early Years and Founding
A group of publishing heavyweights, including Liz Calder from Bloomsbury and Carmen Callil from Virago, along with literary agents Ed Victor and Michael Sissons, wanted to create a unique club. They bought a dilapidated townhouse on Dean Street for £450,000 and transformed it into a hotspot. Rod Stewart, Freddie Mercury, and Liam Gallagher were among the famous faces to visit, along with Keira Knightly and Lily Allen.The club was named after Groucho Marx's famous quote, emphasizing its independent and inclusive nature. It became the blueprint for modern members clubs, attracting members with its promise of a creative and relaxed atmosphere.
However, as time passed, the club faced various challenges. Stories from inside the club became legendary, such as Bill Clinton's visit serenaded by Bono and Julie Burchill's account of Toby Young's encounter. These anecdotes added to the club's allure but also raised eyebrows.
The Front-of-House Manager and Discretion
Overseeing the club's operations was front-of-house manager Bernie Katz, nicknamed "The Prince of Soho" by Stephen Fry. He was the son of notorious south London gangster Brian "Little Legs" Clifford. Katz was known for his discretion, partying with celebrities while protecting their secrets.His memoir reveals his connection to the club and his experiences during its peak. Despite his father's tragic death, Katz continued to be a key figure at the club until his sudden death at the age of 49. Sienna Miller, Noel Fielding, and Jude Law attended his funeral, paying tribute to his role.
The club's downfall can be traced back to various factors. Katz's retirement a few months before his death was seen as a turning point. In 2016, 14 veteran members wrote to the general manager with complaints including "open drug taking" and a loss of its "unique feel". The club's decision to increase membership fees in 2018 and the disbanding of the old membership committee further contributed to its decline.
The Recent Buyout and Future Uncertainty
In 2022, the club was bought by Artfarm for £40m. According to The Times, a letter titled "RIP Groucho" circulated among members this summer, declaring the club "almost dead" due to rising costs and other issues.The future of the Groucho Club remains uncertain. Once a symbol of London's social scene, it now faces an uphill battle to regain its former glory. The lessons learned from its past may shape its future, but only time will tell if it can rise from the ashes.