Best restaurants in Soho right now
Soho's dining scene moves faster than the crowds spilling out of Ronnie Scott's at midnight. One minute you're nursing a pint at the French House, the next you're discovering your new obsession three doors down. That's the beauty of eating in these tight, storied streets – every corner promises something exceptional.
The New Guard
Let's start with Kol on Seymour Street, because Santiago Lastra's Mexican fine dining continues to set tongues wagging. The tasting menu changes seasonally, but expect British ingredients given the full Mexican treatment. Book weeks ahead – this isn't one you can wing on a Tuesday night.
Over on Dean Street, Quo Vadis has found its groove again under Jeremy Lee. The dining room upstairs feels like having dinner in someone's rather grand flat, while the menu celebrates proper British cooking without the stuffiness. Their potted shrimps are the stuff of legend, and weekend lunch here is a Soho institution.
For something completely different, Jiji on Greek Street serves some of the most interesting Middle Eastern food in London right now. The tahini soft serve alone is worth the trek, though you'll want to come hungry for their sharing plates. They don't take bookings for parties under six, so arrive early or prepare to wait with a drink at Milk & Honey next door.
The Soho Stalwarts
Barrafina on Frith Street remains the gold standard for Spanish tapas. Yes, the no-reservations policy means queuing, but perch at that marble counter with a glass of Manzanilla and watch the theatre unfold. The tortilla is non-negotiable, and their daily fish specials rarely disappoint. Weekday lunchtimes are your best bet for shorter waits.
You can't discuss Soho dining without mentioning Andrew Edmunds on Lexington Street. This candlelit wine bar masquerading as a restaurant has been packing them in since 1985. The handwritten menu changes twice daily, the wine list is inspired, and booking is essential – though they sometimes squeeze walk-ins in at the bar. Expect to spend around £35-40 per head, not including the inevitable second bottle of wine.
For When You're Feeling Flush
Hide on Piccadilly might technically be on Soho's border, but Ollie Dabbous's multi-level marvel deserves inclusion. The ground floor offers accessible luxury, while the basement restaurant goes full tasting menu territory. Book the chef's counter if you can – watching the kitchen work is half the entertainment.
Down on Dean Street, Blacklock Soho has perfected the art of meat and fire. Their chops are carved tableside, the cocktails are serious, and the Sunday roast has a cult following. The pre-theatre crowd means early dinner slots fill fast, but late evening brings a more relaxed atmosphere.
The Neighbourhood Gems
Sometimes you want dinner, not a production. Polpo on Beak Street delivers every time with their Venetian bacaro concept. Small plates, natural wines, and that lived-in feeling that makes Soho special. No bookings, but the turnover is quick and the bar seating is prime people-watching territory.
For pasta perfection, Padella's Soho outpost on Wardour Street brings their Borough Market magic west. The fresh pasta is made throughout the day, and watching the chefs work their magic through the kitchen window never gets old. Lunch queues can be brutal, but early dinner (around 5pm) is usually manageable.
Hoppers on Frith Street introduced London to proper Sri Lankan street food, and the queues haven't stopped since. The eponymous hoppers are essential, but don't sleep on their curries and sambols. They take limited bookings, so join the queue early or try your luck at the bar.
Late Night Heroes
When everywhere else has stopped serving, Duck & Rice on Berwick Street comes into its own. Housed in a beautiful former pub, their Chinese dishes work perfectly with proper drinks. The kitchen stays open later than most, making it perfect for post-theatre or post-pub dining.
Over on Greek Street, Dishoom serves Bombay café culture until well past midnight on weekends. Their black dals are legendary, and the cocktails deserve their own article. Weekend brunch here is a thing of beauty, but dinner under those ceiling fans transports you somewhere far from W1.
The Insider Tips
Most Soho restaurants worth their salt get busy between 7-9pm, so book early slots (6pm) or late ones (9:30pm) for the best experience. Many of the smaller places don't take bookings at all – embrace it. Half the fun of eating in Soho is the spontaneity.
Keep cash handy. Some of the best spots are still card-shy, and you'll want to pop into Ain't Nothin' But The Blues Bar or the Dog & Duck for a digestif anyway.
Most importantly, don't over-plan. Soho's magic lies in discovering that perfect little bistro tucked behind Old Compton Street, or following your nose down a side street you've walked past a hundred times before. The best meals here aren't always the most famous ones.
