The ambience of Soho London is one of festivity and modernity, pulling travelers to its melting pot of exotic culinary bounties, nightlife, and attractions. This legendary district in the heart of Central London seals a memorable deal for gourmets, party animals, and modern-day explorers. So if you are looking for a Soho top restaurants in Soho, trendy bars, or secret spots. This guide brings together local favorites, hidden spots, and travel tips to help you experience Soho like a true Londoner.
Soho Food Adventures: A Culinary Journey
Soho’s cuisine is a melting pot of global styles with international influences on local flavors. For the diversity of the food experience, Kingly Court is a three-level all-you-can-eat for over 20 eateries. Caribbean jerk, Japanese ramen, and Indian street food are some of the food offerings at their well-reputed Dishoom restaurants, where authentic flavors are served (be warned though: it is a popular spot and there are no reservations). You crave Italian? Bocconcino is an upscale dining experience with fine Italian fare. Thai enthusiasts will find Speedboat Bar a wonderful destination for bold and spicy dishes, while Humble Chicken offers a special £115 omakase menu.
Looking for affordable eats? Head just below Soho to Chinatown for authentic, value-driven Asian cuisine. Sweet tooth? Cutter & Squidge has its signature Biskies– a hybrid cookie and biscuit filled with buttercream. If you’re looking for a taste of the past, head to Lina Stores for cured meats and antipasti at the Italian deli, on Brewer Street.
For Soho luxury dining, Cakes & Bubbles at the Cafe Royal Hotel is a divine dessert creation by Michelin-starred chef Albert Adrià. It is the perfect combination of French fine dining and British heritage with plates at L’Escargot and Quo Vadis, offering an elegant capstone to any Soho food tour.
Soho Nightlife: Bars, Clubs, and Live Music
Sunset brings with it scintillating Soho nightlife that includes cool bars, centuries-old pubs, and live music. The French House on Dean Street, home to bohemian legends, thrives on the no-phone-no-music ambiance while it serves half-pint beers to its artistic patrons. Compton’s of Soho, an old-school Victorian gay bar on Old Compton Street, serves cocktails with a Soho icon twist. The list of drinks at The Devonshire, begins with the best Guinness while The Admiral Duncan, amongst one of the oldest and loudest LGBTQ+ bars in Soho, really knows how to keep the party going.
For cocktail bars, The Vault is an exclusive speakeasy hidden beneath a whiskey shop; a truly unique setting to indulge your palate in exquisite drinks. Bar Swift has an impressive whiskey program while modern craft cocktails are served at Henson’s Bar on Old Compton Street. Bar Italia is a late-night coffee haven located on Frith St., an Italian coffee bar popular since 1949.
Ronnie Scott’s jazz club-famed since the ’50s-is a music lover’s fantasy, but so is the Spice of Life and 100 Club, soaked in rock’n’roll history. Top-rated nightclubs with buzzing dance floors include Freedom on Wardour Street and Ain’t Nothin’ But…for Blues and Jazz. Lucky Voice on Poland Street may have the karaoke ‘coolest’ vibe in Soho! The LGBTQ+ lifestyle of nightlife sprawls across Old Compton Street with the likes of G-A-Y Bar, The Village, and The Yard with a cozy courtyard vibe. Pride in London adds an exuberant vibe to the scene.
Soho’s Best-Kept Secrets: Unique Attractions and Hidden Spots
Soho, more than just the nightlife and restaurants, packs a punch with its cultural landmarks and hidden gems awaiting discovery. Follow an eccentric walking tour of Soho to discover the Seven Noses of Soho, an art installation from 1997 by Rick Buckley, with sculpted noses hidden on buildings along Bateman Street and Dean Street. For quiet escapes, Soho Square Gardens, a green oasis from the 17th century, soothe the spirits. Minalima House on Greek Street, a graphic art gallery for Harry Potter fans (weekend queues are expected).
Foodies will adore Maison Bertaux, London’s oldest patisserie, serving an array of French pastries on Greek Street. For rare spirits, Jerry’s Wine & Spirits on Old Compton Street is the center of attraction. On the cultural front, the Photographers’ Gallery on Ramillies Street promotes contemporary photography, while a David Bowie Walking Tour traces the star’s 1970s haunts.
Soho’s street life is culturally married in an ancient style. The French House connects to the French community, whereas Bar Italia embodies Italian heritage. Narrow streets like Meard Street or Great Windmill Street harbor hidden alleyways for enviable Soho photos or leisurely evenings.
Plan Your Soho London Adventure
Soho travel offers something for everyone, from food tours to nightlife adventures and hidden attractions. Its compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot, with Central London attractions like Oxford Street and Piccadilly Circus nearby. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Soho’s vibrant energy and diverse experiences will leave you enchanted. Dive into this London neighborhood guide and discover why Soho is a must-visit destination for culture, cuisine, and nightlife.