As the weather transitions and the air takes on an Autumn nip, we’re shifting away from al fresco picnics in the park to spending evenings in warmer environments while socialising with others. If you’re amongst the many eager to get out there and explore the comfort food of Soho, then join Iram Khawaja on a trail visiting her favourite spots, perfect for that seasonal transition – and a touch of heat!
Cafe Boheme
Imagine yourself dining in a classic French restaurant in a hidden corner of Paris inspired by 19th-century French poets. For the early birds heading for breakfast, the French toast is soft and fluffy and covered in berries adding a hint of tartness to its overall sweetness. For dinner, try the escargot or rock oysters… and we’re betting no-one can resist a baked Camembert. Choose from the month’s wine selection, while listening to the daily live jazz performances.
13 OLD COMPTON ST, LONDON | WWW.CAFEBOHMEME.CO.UK
Japes
If you’re a cheese lover then this Chicago-style eatery is the place to go. Pick from a vegetarian Mediterranean pizza topped with goat cheese, feta, mozzarella and ricotta, with lots of veggies on top. There’s a wicked Chicken Tender deep pizza for poultry fans, or go for the ultimate in autumnal flavour with the Forest Truffle pizza. And get your phones ready, you’ll want an Instagramable moment of oozing stringing cheese as you cut a slice and target it towards your mouth!
22-25 DEAN ST, LONDON W1D 3RY | WWW.JAPES.UK
Cay Tre
After the success of its first branch in Shoreditch, this classic Vietnamese restaurant opened up a new venture smack in the middle of Soho. Try the Prawn Summer Rolls to remind yourself of the long, hot summer that’s just passed. For seafood fans, sample something different like the Crispy Fried Sea Bream served with spicy green mango salad, nuts and mixed herbs. Experience the original Pho noodle soup with 24-hour beef marrow bone stock – one bowl is enough for two, so it’s the perfect date meal.
42-43 DEAN ST, LONDON W1D 4P | WWW.CAYTRERESTAURANT.CO.UK
Coqfighter
If you’re undecided about what to eat, why not try a blend of Korean and American cuisine? Coqfighter is an inspired combination of the two in a burger. With branches across London, there’s a reason why this crispy goodness is popular. Try the Golden K-wings served with sweet soy glaze and Korean hot sauce, the Spicy Buffalo loaded fries or pick from two of the most popular burgers – the Original burger or the Green Chilli Cheese for those who want an extra kick. There are plenty of vegan options to accommodate all tastes.
75 BEAK ST, LONDON W1F 9SS | WWW.COQFIGHTER.COM
Ugly Dumpling
If you’re looking for a fun, affordable evening with friends or an interesting place to take a date to warm up in the chillier Autumnal air, head to Ugly Dumpling. The food is far from what the name suggests; the combinations may seem a bit odd but the chefs are magicians! The Cheeseburger Dumpling tastes like a mix of beef, fries and American cheese. The Strawberry Cheesecake dumplings melt in your mouth with just the right amount of sweetness. For vegetarians, the spring roll dumplings contain an entire world of flavours, ready to burst forth.
1 NEWBURGH ST, LONDON W1F 7RB | WWW.UGLYDUMPLING.CO.UK
Hongdae Pocha
Ever dreamt of going to Korea? I have. Head to Hongdae Pocha to experience the Korean karaoke-styled nightlife in a restaurant with old-school Korean songs and trendy pop groups blasting out in the background. This is the perfect alternative to a bar, as it’s essentially the Korean equivalent of a pub. Sample the Kimchi Jeon (crispy savoury pancakes), tender beef bulgogi, and the renowned Tteok Bok Ki (rice cakes and fish cakes in a sweet and spicy sauce).
26 ROMILLY ST, LONDON W1D 5AJ | WW.HONGDAEPOCHA.COM
Fatt Pundit
Fatt Pundit is an Indo-Chinese Asian fusion restaurant specialising in food from Kolkata, with a mix of Chinese influence from the Hakka people. The spicy beef momos are a perfect flavoursome starter, or try the chicken for a more low-key spice experience. The popular critically acclaimed crackling spinach is similar to fried seaweed with the addition of sweet yoghurt, date and plum sauce and pomegranate – it all makes a delicious dish. The must-have dish is the shredded chilli venison, perfect to excite your taste buds. Try it for yourself!
77 BERWICK ST, LONDON W1F 8TH | WWW.FATTPUNDIT.CO.UK
Photos courtesy of respective restaurant.
Written by Iram Khawaja | @iram.travels
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This article was originally published in the Autumn issue of My Soho Times. CLICK HERE to view online.
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