off.
Once again City Hall, whoever they are, is willing the destruction of London's cultural heritage. (whats new, I know). Apparently its "Redevelopment", whatever that is.
Gaby's has stood in the same spot at 30 Charing Cross Road since 1965; now soon to be replaced by some ghastly, sterile chain restaurant development. I'm not naive or oblivious to the unfortunate fact that the gentrification of London is purely part of its evolution. But when the powers at be, sitting comfortably on their 6 figure salaries, approve the destruction of the city's heritage I can't help but think; why are we standing for this?
I'm not going to camp outside Paternoster Square or launch copies of Das Kapital at the city hall. This is not me waving a red flag. I simply want to save somewhere that I and thousands of others love.
I can't quite put my finger on exactly what it is about Gaby's. It sits almost anonymous amongst the remaining bookshops on the edge of Soho and theaterland, quietly sandwiched between the two. One can sit, almost anonymous, in the corner with some salt beef or falafel and pitta and simply blend into the crowd. Every class, colour and creed. No one more important or notable than another.
Menus are wipe-clean laminated, walls tobacco stained. The staff predate customer service. Soft drinks are served in the can. Its honest. As is the food. Nowhere, does what Gaby's do.
Gaby's is London. A London which is disappearing. Its loosing its heart, and Gaby's is as much part of that heart as Nelsons Column, if not more so. Its alive. Its the people and culture which make the city. I don't wish to see the West End turned unto some monolithic shopping precinct. And sincerely hope I'm not a minority in that opinion.
I really couldn't give a fuck if i never saw another pizza express again in my life.
There is a facebook campaign and petition to save it. Please read the details and sign the petition.
http://www.facebook.com/save.gabys.deli
http://www.thejc.com/community/community-life/56654/gabys-deli-customers-spice-fight-against-closure
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