Buckle up for a mouthwatering tour of our top picks on the Soho food & drink scene – these are our tried and tested Soho staples that’ve stood the test of time!
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BAR BRUNO
Truly the last of Soho’s greasy spoons, this independent and family-run business offers comforting British fry-up classics, including a variety of vegetarian options, alongside delightful Italian treats. The interior is a nostalgic homage to its old-school diner years, featuring decor that transports you back to a simpler time. You’ll find a diverse crowd here -ranging from construction workers to CEOs – showing that it doesn’t matter how fancy you are; a good bacon butty is universally appreciated, full stop!
101 Wardour St, London W1F 0UG
BAR ITALIA
Bar Italia needs no introduction. This coffee shop has earned its place on the list of robust heritage businesses of Soho. Perhaps it’s the Italian charm or simply the exceptional coffee that has fueled this family-owned establishment since 1949. Exciting news of a second location has circulated, and we couldn’t be more thrilled for the Polledri family! While there will be more opportunities for coffee lovers to enjoy, there’s only one original Bar Italia, and that iconic spot is right on Frith Street!
22 Frith St, London W1D 4RF
ALGERIAN COFFEE STORES
Established in 1887, family-run Algerian Coffee Stores continues to offer an extensive range of coffee beans and teas sourced from around the world. Here, you can treat yourself to the exclusive Dolce & Gabbana Moka pot starting at £75 for your stylish morning brew, or grab a delicious espresso to go from just £1.20 — still the cheapest coffee in Soho!
52 Old Compton St, London W1D 4QE
COACH & HORSES
Where to start with this venerable drinking hole, probably the most famous pub in Soho? For sure it’s an institution, and so popular you will struggle to find a spot where you can sit, stand or lean; but no matter, it celebrates its wonderfully rackety past with pride. Plus, it was the favourite Soho pub of a dear friend of mine, Hong Kong-based writer Robin Lynam, who sadly is no longer with us, so a great place to raise a parting glass to the many imbibers – journalists and thinkers among them – who have propped up the bar down the years.
29 Greek St, London W1D 5DH
POPPIES FISH & CHIPS
Having sunk a few pints or laid waste to a bottle or two of wine, you might be feeling in need of some serious carbs. Fish and chips at Poppies will save the day – or night – and hopefully help dilute a crippling hangover in the morning. The restaurant is famous for its dash of East End charm transported West, and it certainly boasts some funky 70s retro-chic décor in homage to the legendary 2iis coffee bar. Not only are the fishy favourites of cod, haddock and scampi on the menu, you can also treat yourself to lemon sole and mackerel fillets (though maybe not at the same time).
55-59 Old Compton St, London W1D 6HW
L’ESCARGOT
Upping the ante somewhat is a visit to L’Escargot, the oldest French Restaurant in London. A celeb magnet for years, it’s still a popular spot with a great menu. Snails quite naturally feature strongly in the line-up, but you can also tuck into Wild Mushroom & Truffle Risotto, Carbonnade de Boeuf and Toulouse sausages. And if you book a table before the end of October, you’ll be able to catch artist Soho George’s Myths and Legends exhibition, which showcases his most recent work, inspired by King Arthur and Knights of the Round Table.
48 Greek St, London W1D 4EF
BALANS SOHO, NO.60
Ready to kick up your heels and have some fun? For that, you’ll be needing to maintain your Balans. Equilibrium is sustained by there being two locations in Soho; the big one at 60 Old Compton, and the original cosy little one at 34 which began the whole Balans story 30 years ago. Creative industry denizens and artistic spirits have been making a beeline for this establishment for decades. And why would they not, with Margarita Mondays and a reputation for serving the meanest Porn Star Martinis in London? A range of food options, including scrummy brunches and snacks, and will keep you going long after the party’s over.
*Print error: The original site is Balans 34.
60-62 Old Compton St, London W1D 4UG
THE FRENCH HOUSE
When discussing true Soho institutions, the French House on Dean Street will most definitely be towards the top of anyone’s list. It also happens to be an exception to the rule of teaching old dogs new tricks. Before the pandemic, the pub installed a new restaurant upstairs, headed by chef Neil Borthwick. The concise, seasonal ingredient-led menu lacks pretence and demonstrates that old school is best, fitting perfectly into the ethos of the French House. Expect a three course takeaway menu, showcasing the best British springtime produce. Being the French House, it should be obligatory to pair with a glass of champagne, or as the house rules imply: half a pint of beer.
49 Dean St, London W1D 5BG
QUO VADIS
Whither next? Why Quo Vadis, of course. It’s a restaurant. It’s a club. It’s a beautifully appointed set of private dining rooms. It also used to be a brothel in days gone by, but then so was half of Soho at that time! Karl Marx, who seemed to spend a great deal of his time knocking around Soho eating cake and drinking beer and wine (not sure when he found the time to pen Das Kapital) was also a former resident. Their website details a colourful past and promises timeless allure. No doubt. The food’s good too.
26-29 Dean St, London W1D 3LL
TRISHA’S
This iconic basement bar is loved by all – old and young, rich or poor – and you’ll find them all in this Greek Street den. It’s hard to believe that just over a year ago this venue, officially called the New Evaristo Club but better known as Trisha’s, in honour of its longtime matriarch, faced the threat of closure following a licence review. The overwhelming response from punters to keep it open is a testament to the power of the people and proves the strength of the community. It rightfully deserves its reputation as one of the last bastions of old-school Soho—a late-night sanctuary steeped in a rich, boozy history filled with colourful Soho characters. Remember, it’s a members-only club, so best to know someone who knows someone who can get you in.
57 Greek St, London W1D 3DX
GERRY’S CLUB
Gerry’s Club may appear unassuming from the single door at the bottom of Dean Street, but much like Trisha’s, it’s one of the last of the classic drinking dens. And don’t let its exterior fool you. This is a member’s club, and while not everyone may gain entry, those who do are in for a treat. Once you step inside and make your way down the stairwell, you’ll find live music, vibrant Soho characters, and an atmosphere that’s reminiscent of yesteryear… and a seat, if you’re lucky enough to snag one..
52 Dean St, London W1D 5BJ
MAISON BERTAUX
Looking for a simple sugar rush? A Soho patisserie is what you need, so why not drop into Maison Bertaux on Greek Street? It’s been around since 1871, when Monsieur Bertaux fled Paris to set up shop in Soho. The red berry cheesecake and handmade fresh cream slices must be sampled. And if it was good enough for previous patrons Virginia Woolf, Karl Marx, Derek Jarman and Alexander McQueen (to name but a few) then it will surely tickle your French fancies too.
28 Greek St, London W1D 5DQ
KINGLY COURT
And finally for those who really do crave – nay, demand – choice, the obvious destination is Kingly Court, perfectly sandwiched between Carnaby and Kingly Streets. 21 restaurants, bars and cafés spread over three floors live to serve – alfresco in the summer and slightly snugger in the colder months when they turn the heating on, thank goodness. Restaurants include Club Mexicana, Dirty Bones and Pizza Pilgrims, bars Disrepute, Nightjar and Cahoots
Kingly St, Carnaby, London W1B 5PW
Check out our Coffee Shop staples too!
Which of these have you experienced? Let us know if we missed any of your favourite Soho staples!
Share your thoughts in the comment box below!
This article was originally published in the Autumn issue of My Soho Times magazine. View it ONLINE HERE!
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