Outernet Welcomes Soho’s Iconic Bar Italia

Bar Italia the most iconic coffee bar in the world has partnered with Outernet to open a second Bar Italia on Thursday 9th January. This is the first time since it welcomed customers through the doors in 1949 that Bar Italia has had another site and comes as the revered coffee bar celebrates its 75th birthday.

Bar Italia has been run by the Polledri family for 75 years and is renowned for offering hospitality almost 24 hours a day. The cafe has won many prestigious awards including "The Best Coffee Bar in London" multiple times and was recently recognized as one of the best global coffee bars.

The epitome of Soho cool, Bar Italia is a place that people from all walks of life can relax, hide away or enjoy their night into the early hours. Now, this fiercely independent Soho stalwart owned and run by the founder’s family will join forces with Outernet, Soho’s newest and thoroughly modern arrival. Since launching two years ago Outernet has become the UK’s most visited cultural attraction as visitors enjoy arts and entertainment on the immense immersive screens - all for free.

Bar Italia was opened in 1949 by Lou and Caterina Polledri, the grandparents of the current owners. With just a few modernisations over 75 years the Polledri family has been careful to maintain the original bar’s details with many parts remaining from 1949. It has counted celebrities as customers across the decades including David Bowie, Paul Weller, Mick Jagger, Kylie, Jarvis Cocker, Tom Hardy, Elizabeth Taylor, Tony Bennett, Al Pacino and Harry Styles.

Philip O’Ferrall CEO Outernet said:

“This is new Soho coming together with classic Soho and proving that the two can combine to create something very special with real soul. Both Outernet and Bar Italia are completely unique and so this is a natural partnership.  I couldn’t be happier that Outernet will be the home of a new Bar Italia spot for the first time ever.”

The Polledri family said:

“The original iconic Bar Italia is thrilled to announce our opening at Outernet. We are excited to collaborate with such a legendary space, bringing our rich heritage and passion for quality to this vibrant and dynamic location. This marks the perfect union of the original 1949 café with the world’s most modern and advanced tech building – a blend of timeless tradition and cutting-edge innovation.”