If there’s one thing that can be said about the news that David Bowie’s died, it’s that the entire world feels a little gloomier today. Even non-fans (although how many of us have ever met someone who has actively disliked Bowie or his music?) will agree that the man who gave us such brilliance as “Life on Mars” and Jareth the Goblin King (not to mention this wonderfully offensive little ditty about Ricky Gervais) will be incredibly missed. That’s why it should come as no surprise that mere hours after the announcement of Bowie’s death, mourners are already paying tribute to the singer. But while some grieve on social media, others are placing flowers in front of a Zizzi restaurant in London. Why?
According to The Independent, the site of the chain restaurant may actually be the birthplace of Ziggy Stardust and the launching pad of Bowie’s musical career. That’s because before the chain took over, the location was home to The Three Tuns Pub where Bowie started his meteoric rise. Those who witnessed his early performances claim they realized they were seeing something unique and special.
Site of the Three Tuns pub, Beckenham, where Bowie launched Ziggy Stardust. Flowers already being laid. pic.twitter.com/8kT6QUfOKY
— Duncan Wright (@dwright75) January 11, 2016
There’s even a plaque that commemorates Bowie’s career standing just outside the restaurant, so that even the most confused diners will (hopefully, as The Independent points out) know why there are tributes to Bowie in front of their favorite casual Italian place.
Bowie, Beckenham, red and gold. pic.twitter.com/6iVmD2Vs21
— Jonathan Savage (@JSavageTweets) January 11, 2016
Anyone interested in taking a closer look at The Three Tuns Pub can check out this video, which sets photographs of the pub’s massive collection of Bowie memorabilia and artwork against a particularly melancholy rendition of “Life on Mars” on keyboard.
Elsewhere in London, public transportation staff have paid tribute to Bowie by using a bit of his genius as their quote of the day.
Quote of the day at East Finchley station #RIPDavidBowie pic.twitter.com/jeJkcElqKZ
— Sian Eleri Jones (@SianEleri) January 11, 2016