Here are the best restaurants in London’s Soho, tried and tasted by our team
We feasted around the West End core to uncover the best spots for dinner.
As one of the world’s culinary capitals, it all begins with Soho, London. Ask any Londoner where they go on an evening out in the city, and chances are the West End enclave comes out on top. This is where eateries are born and make their way across town, where Michelin-starred chefs operate, and where you’ll find cuisine that represents the length and breadth of the diverse city. We round up our favourite spots for Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Latin American, Turkish and more.
These are the best restaurants in Soho, London
1. 10 Greek Street
This bustling, neighbourly restaurant has Soho written all over it, and for us, it’s a solid all-rounder that ticks all the boxes. Box one: food. The menu is seasonal and can even change daily, but no matter what you get, we’re sure it’ll blow your mind. Our previous visits have included tender venison with kale and fresh hake with chickpeas, sided with the kind of fried potatoes you’ll hog from your partner. Box two: wine. The extensive list is mainly European (thank goodness!) with a splash of new worlds, and all’s very reasonably priced. And, finally, box three: ambience. A minimal yet quaint space with friendly and knowledgeable staff – try for a window seat to watch the scurry outside while you sip and swirl a Burgundy. For something off piste, ask them for the ‘little black book’, a handwritten list of rarer wine gems available on the day.
Find out more about 10 Greek Street
2. Platapian
We remember when we first dined at Patara circa the mid-2000s. At the time, it was the best Thai restaurant in the city, becoming a legend in Asian cuisine. Of course, in ever-evolving Soho, metamorphosis is inevitable. Patara is now Platapian, helmed by Head Chef Phayom Phimkrua…and honestly, it’s even better than its big mamma.
The menu reflects the length of Thailand, from bold, fiery flavours of the South to delicate, aromatic dishes from the North. We delighted in the brothy sea bream, a subtle swirl on jasmine rice, then contrasted with a vibrant pad Thai elevated by lobster tail. Sweets are worth holding out for, too, such as the (actual) Thai mango sticky rice and the pandan crème brulee.
Find out more about Platapian
3. Darjeeling Express
A visit from King Charles in 2025 cemented Darjeeling Express’ importance in Soho…this place is the real deal. Asma Khan’s all-female kitchen is homestyle cooking you wish you had residency at. It’s served the way Indian food’s meant to be eaten, tables full of vibrant platters, an absolute ‘daawat’ (feast).
Start with the steamed Chicken Momos using your spoon(!), generous parcels with a chilli sesame kick, then fuel on the Kosha Mangsho, Bengali slow-cooked meat with gravy for the rice. To finish? The Bhopa Doi, a refreshing yet sweet caramel steamed yoghurt, will fan it all down, that and a cold Mango Lassi. Situated on the second floor of Kingly Court.
Find out more about Darjeeling Express
4. Marjorie’s
We dare you not to fall in love with Marjorie. She really is a slice of Paris on Foubert’s Place. Folks can choose between cosy (two-story) indoor and buzzy terrace seating, tasting small to medium-sized plates of seasonal bistro bites such as Escargot with seaweed and pine nut cream, and the tender Stone bass with Champagne sauce. For dessert, we recommend a cheeseboard and a glass of red Rhone (all wines are exclusively French, so there’s no going wrong!), or the millefeuille and – why not – a glass of Loire bubbles. By the glass means more varieties to sample, and this is the place to adventure on the sip, at least on your first few visits.
Find out more about Marjorie’s
5. Kolamba
There was a time when the only Sri Lankan restaurant anyone could name was Hoppers, but that’s a bygone era. Now, Kolamba is on everyone’s lips… literally. Eroshan and Aushi Meewella present Sri Lankan home-cooking to Soho, from Aunty Mo’s ‘Chatti’ Roast on delicate steamed string hoppers to the rich Ceylon Chicken Curry we like to scoop Dhal on, and our personal favourite, the sticky-sauced Devilled King Prawns. For dessert, it’s all about the Watalappam, a traditional dessert with a sweet yet refreshing finish. Ideal after the dance of bold flavours and vibrant colours, it’s all very much a delicious celebration of the sun-soaked island.
Find out more about Kolamba
6. Imad’s
Syrian Chef Imad Alarnab has put his nation’s cuisine on the map at this, his Kingly Court restaurant, since 2020. We can’t get enough of the generous breakfasts served Monday to Saturday until 11:30 am, especially his signature morning feast comprising scrambled eggs, avocado, halloumi, salad and baked crackers… and if there’s stomach space, falafels or a Riaayiq Asal pastry to share. The lunch/dinner menu features items like the Tahini Kofta and the Mudakhan Ghanam (a slow-roasted lamb), and there’s a robust wine list to pair any meal with, of which you’ll absolutely need to take your first foray into Syrian wine.
Find out more about Imad’s
7. Bar Kroketa
If you haven’t had a croqueta, then you’ve clearly not been to the right restaurants in Soho (or visited Spain). Change that immediately: Bar Kroketa has wildly addictive fritters coming out of their ears. Rotating varieties span chicken to king prawn to mushroom, but in our opinion, it’s all about the black squid ink and alioli… or if you have a sweet tooth, the chocolate dessert croqueta. That aside, your tapas table brims with delights like beef tostas, padron peppers, and finger-licking Iberico ribs. If you cap off with a Horchata Martini, no siesta is required. There are more outposts in St Christopher’s Place and Broadgate Circle if you just can’t get enough.
Find out more about Bar Kroketa
8. Pastaio
Pasta lovers will slurp their way into each other’s hearts at Pastaio, Soho’s sauciest spot for fresh, handmade pastas. There’s the tomato Tagliolini, the creamy Cacio e Pepe, and the wild mushroom Tagliatelle, but if you really want to up the ante, then consider the whole lobster linguine to share; it’s one of our faves. Sweet sensations include Tiramisu, Vanilla Panna Cotta and a variety of gelatos and sorbets, all of which will accompany nicely with some Aperol Spritz out on the terrace.
Find out more about Pastaio
9. The Palomar
Serving cuisine influenced by the rich cultures of Southern Spain, North Africa and the Levant, The Palomar has held a Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2014. Every dish here is not only scrumptious but also feel-good. Ingredients are locally and sustainably sourced and made from scratch, including bread, which is baked in their kitchen daily. We recommend starting with their warm falafels, savouring the tender chicken with labneh, and sealing it all with an ice cream sandwich, featuring baklava, of course.
Find out more about The Palomar
10. Gauthier Soho
Chef Alexis Gauthier was a Michelin-starred French Chef who went vegan and never looked back. At his fine dining spot tucked away in a multi-storey former house, guests are treated to a tasting menu that puts vegetables at the front and centre. Expect a seasonal array of delights that twist French favourites into something completely new. Their famous vegan Caviar is always a highlight, and we’ve got to shout out their non-alcoholic drinks pairing for adding to the fun. We love the warm service here too which really exemplifies the kindness-to-all ethos.
Find out more about Gauthier Soho
11. Berenjak
There’s a reason why this Persian joint has crowds flocking to it every weekend. The food at Berenjak is truly crafted with love – you can taste it from their kababs to their khoresht. We always order the strained yoghurt with green raisins, loads of the tanoor-baked sourdough flatbread, and the coal-cooked aubergine before hitting the ghormeh sabzi (lamb stew). This is a hole-in-the-wall spot, where people stand on the street and tuck in. It’s the OG, and when you go, you’ll understand why it has a special place in our hearts.
Learn more about Berenjak
12. Bubala
There ain’t no party like a Bubala party. We just can’t get enough of this Middle Eastern haven where flavoursome, plant-based dishes reign supreme. Everything single thing on the menu will dazzle your taste buds, so we always recommend going for the Bubala Knows Best menu (they really do!) The burnt butter hummus is one of their iconic dishes, and the oyster mushroom skewer recently had my meat-loving companion embracing a food epiphany. Leave room for some of their tahini fudge to close out with something sweet.
Discover more about Bubala
13. Laxsa
When a Malaysian friend recommends a Malaysian restaurant, you listen to them. Laxsa is just a spot of heaven for Assam Laksa fans like us. Order one of the giant bowls and share the sour and spicy goodness with friends. We always get the Gado Gado and the Mushroom King to start with (we’re not quite sure what they do to those mushrooms, but they taste so good!) We love the relaxed vibes here. Be sure to book if you have a big group, as it fills up pretty quickly.
Find out more about Laxsa
14. Nessa
Championing all things British, the team at Nessa harness the bounty of our island, working with farmers and producers for all that is uber fresh, spun onto our plate with a dash of creativity. Sample items include Aged Beef Tartare with beef fat charred sourdough, the Grilled Sea Bream with fine beans, brown shrimp and peppercorn sauce, and Roast Rump of West Country Lamb brushed with black garlic, served with parsnip, chilli & mint. However, we also rate this spot for weekend brunch; the crushed broad bean ‘avocado’ toast and buttermilk pancakes are incredible. Don’t miss the fabulous cocktail list, of which you might want to stay awhile to sample in this sultry boutique space all afternoon long.
Find out more about Nessa
15. Evelyn’s Table
Despite the acclaim, Evelyn’s Table is still somewhat of a guarded secret, a tiny cellar restaurant sitting under the side streets of Soho. Here, 12 counter seats are led by Head Chef Seamus Sam and his team, who treat their collective guests to an unforgettable five-course menu of seasonal British produce uplifted with Japanese-French techniques.
A short and dynamic wine list with drink pairings is available, including ‘half & half’ and ‘no & low’ options, and afterwards guests may continue the festivity at The Blue Posts pub (Ground level) or The Mulwray wine bar (floor 1). A tad spenny, but a surefire date night treat.
Find out more about Evelyn’s Table
16. Singapulah
Join the line on Shaftesbury Avenue, where Ellen Chew’s Singapulah, London’s most talked-about 2024 opening, resides. Her menu harnesses the multicultural melting pot of flavours found in the little red dot, and you’ll delight in the likes of Hokkien Mee (the real Singapore noodles), Singapore Loaded Rojak, Ang Kar prawn noodle soup, and Kaya ice cream toast made with Creamier’s pandan coconut ice cream and buttered toast soldiers.
A special Tiffin set lunch menu is also available weekdays from 12-4pm for just £15.95 if you’re strapped for time… and the waistband elasticity!
Find out more about Singapulah
17. Bébé Bob
Fans of Bob Bob Ricard with a penchant for chicken and caviar will love Bébé Bob, a glamorous Art Deco space in Soho celebrating the two delicacies. Plus champagne and cocktails.
The golden chicken schnitzel is crisped just right, but we think that the star cluck is the slow-roasted Vendée Chicken, served all week long, not just as Sunday roast, alongside chicken jus, and decadent add-on sides like truffled cauliflower cheese. Caviar is very generously served from some of the largest tins in London, making this the place to really spoil yourself.
Find out more about Bébé Bob
18. Sucre
This fine dining restaurant, blushed in orange hues and dripping in grand chandeliers, is one of the prettiest spots in Soho. Sucre’s guests dine on seasonal Argentinian fare, where the star is naturally the perfect steak; however, our obsessions go beyond beef. The lamb belly is fall-off-the-skewer tender, and the tuna ‘ham’ on zerbinatti melon will forever change the way you see a slice of fish. As will the dark chocolate sorbet at the end.
Find out more about Sucre
19. INKO NITO
This unconventional robatayaki restaurant is all about Japanese-Korean-influenced robatayaki, sushi and snacks, so good you’re transported to the Far East on the first bite. Crowd pleasers include the Korean spiced lamb rump with aubergine, and Miso Canadian black cod with pickled daikon. We can vouch for the sashimi, particularly any of the yellowtail options, of which you’re best sampling the selection. Tasting menus, brunch, and free-flow wines are also available, and do save room for their inko cheesecake.
Find out more about INKO NITO
20. Manzi’s
No matter what season London skies are serving, know that at Manzi’s, it’s always a sunny day. This is where to come for a little bit of seaside escapism; ocean blues, kitsch decor, and Mediterranean-inspired classics like the Bateman lobster roll and fries, or the whole roasted monkfish to share.
Between Monday to Friday, it’s Oyster Hour at 5:30 pm, so get in the mood with smacking deals on the slurp. Of course, they’re best paired with fizz, and we suggest the Pommery Brut or a Louis Roederer to join them.
Find out more about Manzi’s
21. Nopi
If you are a fan of all things Ottolenghi, then be sure to treat yourself to a night at Nopi. The elevated restaurant from chef Yotam Ottolenghi brims with exceptional fare that changes with the seasons.
Vegetables sing on this menu, and we have no doubt that you’ll fall in love with all of the sharing plates here. Be sure to try the restaurant’s selection of house cocktails, which include unique ingredients like aquafaba, beetroot, and activated charcoal.
It also makes our list of great London restaurants that we keep going back to.
Find out more about Nopi
22. Kanpai Classic
In the mood for the world’s best cut of meat? It’s being sliced at Kanpai Classic. The Wardour St restaurant is centred on the Japanese A5 Grade Wagyu experience, where guests are treated to the melt-in-your-mouth taste of Himawari. These span Momo, Picanha, Sirloin and Filet Mignon.
A tasting menu and an omakase aid newbies in sampling the greats, and it’s all theatrics when prepared table-side. Our return for cut is, much to our surprise, the Beef Tongue. Juicy and rich in fat, it’s heavenly soft with an exquisite flavour. Best paired with a sake from the restaurant’s extensive list.
Find out more about Kanpai Classic
23. Milk Beach
Sydney in Soho, the Milk Beach vibe is one of surfside chill, tucked away from the madness in James Court on Greek Street. Here you can sit back with cocktails and bask in a Sunday Session series, hanging out with besties in stylish company. Nibble on chicken salt chips and prawn toast; have a vegan moment on the tender Aubergine karaage; or do the whole market fish with delicate XO butter. It’s all delicious and noticeably fresh. With coffee such a big part of Aussie culture, a quality brew is guaranteed too (tip: add a shot of Bailey’s at dessert!). These beans are sourced from farms around the world, roasted in-house, and made with love.
Find out more about Milk Beach
24. Black Tap Soho
Sink your teeth into these! Black Tap’s got the juiciest burgers around, right under our Piccadilly lights. The NYC masters bring fan faves alongside London exclusives, from The Champ and the Black Truffle Burger to the BT Fish & Chips Sandwich and the Zhoung Lamb Burger. And there’s no dining here without a sip and a social media snap of their huge milkshakes. Don’t miss the UK’s first-ever Guinness ‘CrazyShake’, a viral sensation featuring a half-pint of Guinness in a chocolate shake, topped with whipped cream, Guinness chocolate cake, and a brownie. Our sweet spot, though, is the Brooklyn Blackout all-chocolate…because you can never have too much chocolate for dessert, at least not here!
Find out more about Black Tap
But wait, there’s more…
- If you’ve got cash to splash in swanky Mayfair (lucky you!)? Then check out our favourite upscale restaurants in the area.
- We’ve got your date nights in the city covered in our guide to the most romantic restaurants in London
- Want to know more about what makes an incredible glass of wine? We head to Bordeaux to chat to Château Quintus’ Mariette Veyssière about their world-renowned pours
