| Chinawhite is the name of a London nightclub located in the Soho area just north
of Piccadilly Circus. Known as a gathering place for celebrities,
especially in the 1990s, the club is now thought to be less exclusive, if no less popular. Despite the advent of many newer
London nightspots, Chinawhite still retains a patina of glamour and long queues at the door, fueled by a 'members only'
policy on several nights and a £500 minimum for table service.
History
When Chinawhite first opened its doors, it distributed 100 free memberships to celebrities and socialites. At that
point, membership cost a mere £150 per year, although members still had to pass an approval process. Within the first year of
operation, membership fees rose to £650 per year, and they remain at that level today. From 1999 onwards, membership has been
mostly closed. It is estimated that the club has roughly 1400 members, of which half are complimentary memberships extended to
celebrities.
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