A Local’s Comprehensive Guide
Soho, the heart of London’s vibrant nightlife and eclectic dining scene, offers a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and culinary delights. Whether you’re looking for a night out, a cozy coffee spot, or a laugh, Soho has it all. Here’s a guide to the best places to eat, drink, get coffee, enjoy bakeries, and experience the nightlife and comedy scenes in London Soho.
Where to Eat
- Speedboat Bar: A love letter to Bangkok’s Chinatown, Speedboat Bar offers wok-fired dishes and unusual cocktails. The menu features punchy Thai-Chinese flavours, showcasing Chef Luke Farrell’s skill. Enjoy dishes like lychee with roasted duck and soya chicken with winter melon. The bar also offers a lively atmosphere with Thai turbo-folk music and a pool table.
- Kasa and Kin: A family-run restaurant helmed by executive chef Jeremy Villanueva, Kasa and Kin serves elevated Filipino cuisine. The menu includes dishes like adobo, sinigang, and kare-kare, offering a taste of the Philippines in the heart of Soho.
- Kricket: Known for its creative fusion of British ingredients and vibrant Indian flavours, Kricket offers a unique dining experience. The menu features dishes like lamb chops, chicken tikka, and a variety of small plates, perfect for sharing.
- Blacklock Soho: An intimate, industrially-styled chophouse, Blacklock Soho offers a variety of chops, including lamb, pork, and veal. The restaurant also features a bustling open kitchen and a cocktail bar, making it a perfect spot for meat lovers.
- Nopi: A convivial home to Ottolenghi’s bold flavours, Nopi offers a seasonal menu of sharing plates and larger dishes. The restaurant features white marble and gold fittings, creating an elegant dining experience. Don’t miss the burrata with coriander seeds and fig leaf vinaigrette.
- Koya: Specialising in Japanese udon noodles and small plates, Koya offers a communal dining experience. The restaurant is known for its fresh house-made udon, prepared in traditional Japanese style. Enjoy dishes like tempura udon and yaki udon in a cozy setting.
Where to Drink
Soho’s pubs are legendary, each with its own unique character and history.
- For a taste of old-world charm, head to The French House, a favorite haunt of artists and writers since the 1920s.
- Enjoy a pint of Guinness and soak up the bohemian atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more traditional pub experience, The Coach & Horses is a classic choice, with its friendly locals and lively atmosphere.
- For a taste of history, visit The John Snow, named after the famous physician who helped to stop the cholera outbreak in 1854.
- The Devonshire, a stylish gastropub with a beautiful outdoor terrace, perfect for people-watching.
Where to grab coffee
Need a caffeine fix? Soho has a plethora of cafes and coffee shops to choose from.
- Algerian Coffee Store is a Soho institution, offering a wide selection of coffee beans and teas from around the world.
- Bar Italia is another classic, serving authentic Italian coffee and pastries.
- For a Scandinavian twist, head to Söderberg, a stylish cafe with delicious coffee and baked goods.
Where to sip cocktails
Soho is also home to some of London’s best cocktail bars.
- Bar Termini is a must-visit for its exquisite Italian cocktails and elegant atmosphere.
- Trisha’s is a hidden gem, offering a unique selection of cocktails and a cozy, intimate setting.
- For a more underground vibe, head to Below Stone Nest, a basement bar with a cool, industrial aesthetic.
Where to catch some entertainment
After your drinks, why not catch a show?
- Soho Theatre is a renowned venue for new writing and experimental theatre.
- For a night of laughs and glamour, head to the Admiral Duncan for their legendary drag shows.
- If you’re in the mood for a movie, Curzon Soho is an independent cinema showcasing the best in art-house and foreign films.
Where to eat a sweet treat
No trip to Soho is complete without indulging in some dessert.
- Cafe de Nata is a must-visit for its delicious Portuguese custard tarts.
- Bun House offers a variety of sweet and savory buns, perfect for a quick snack or light lunch.
- Gelupo is an Italian gelateria serving artisanal gelato in a variety of flavours.
- For a truly decadent treat, head to L’ETO Soho for their exquisite cakes and pastries.
Soho is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a Michelin-starred meal, a casual pub lunch, or a late-night snack, you’re sure to find something to tempt your taste buds in this vibrant district.
London Like a Local 