The queue
The queue. The nerves. Would you remember your date of birth? Would you get away with your big sister’s ID? What’s your star sign again? And for the lads – what have you got on your feet?
Get past the bouncers and you’re into the top bar. Fail, and it’s off down Old Cock Yard to swap coats and try again.
Read more: 34 things everyone who grew up in Preston knows to be true
The Top Bar
The dance floor was heaving with sweaty bodies and pulsing hormones, but the top bar was where it was at. Phone numbers were swapped, hearts were broken and lasting friendships were formed.
The Hitman and Her
Not much happened in Preston in the early 90s really, did it? Apart from Kenny Baker (the guy inside R2D2) celeb spotting was pretty thin on the ground.
Enter Pete Waterman and Michaela Strachan.
In 1991 the pair took a trip to Tokes to be met with Preston’s finest.
Lycra-clad dancers, men in suits, sing-offs and smutty jokes…. they don’t make telly like that anymore.
Read more: Remember when The Hitman and Her came to Tokyo Jo’s?
Tokes royalty
It’s not just the Queen who gets an official birthday. Tokes royalty (that’s anyone who’s ever been on the guest list) were lucky enough to get two birthdays too. Look out for your annual ‘half-birthday party’ invite, dropping through your door. A VIP booth and free bottle of bubbly? Cheers, Tokes. I’ll get my crown.
Chateaux Du Sh*te
Before prosecco became all the rage, there was this stuff. It was fizzy, it was free, and with a plastic cork and a taste that would strip paint, it was a Tokes staple.
It’s back! Tokyo Jo’s is holding a reunion on Maundy Thursday April 18. For more information visit their Facebook page.
Did you go to Tokyo Jo’s? Leave your memories in the comments below.