Holding a strong claim to being the heart of London, Soho has a little something for everyone – and that’s doubly true for the food. The restaurants found here are inventive, award-winning (even Michelin-starred!) and endlessly pleasing, and we can’t get enough of them here at Secret London! So, without further ado, here are the very best Soho restaurants – a bevy of lip-smackingly good spots if we say so ourselves:
1. Kiln
Image: @kilnsoho, via IG
This Thai-inspired barbecue joint is widely recognised as one of the very best restaurants in Soho, and we have to say: Kiln certainly lives up to the hype. Wood-fired seafood, small plates, and claypot dishes have made it a critical darling, and the northern Thai influences help it stand out from many of London’s other Thai restaurants. Go for a curry, at least one dish from the grill, and whatever the claypot dish is when you visit. Pair it with a drink from their impressive wine selection, and you’ll understand why we’ve placed this spot at the top of the list.
📍 56 Brewer Street, W1F 9TL.
🚇 Nearest station is Piccadilly Circus.
2. Mountain
With a Michelin star to its name, Mountain is among the very best restaurants in London, not just Soho. Queues are likely at this little sibling to the famed BRAT restaurant in Hackney if you’re trying to get in without a booking. But if you do snag a seat, don’t leave without trying the restaurant’s iconic Spider Crab Omelette. Otherwise, it’s hard to go wrong here, where open fire cooking and a wood-fired oven add a lick of smoke to every delectable dish.
📍 16-18 Beak Street, W1F 9RD.
🚇 Nearest stations are Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Circus.
3. Quo Vadis
Chef Jeremy Lee has made Quo Vadis a true powerhouse. This Soho restaurant is beloved by both critics and punters alike – a far cry from its past life as a brothel, and then as the home of Karl Marx. (One presumes the courtesans had moved out by this stage). Seasonal British fare is on the a la carte menu, which is intended to be relatively affordable. The smoked eel sandwich is one of the capital’s truly iconic dishes – so popular it’s even got its very own section on the menu, away from all the other dishes.
📍 26-29 Dean Street, W1D 3LL.
🚇 Nearest station is Tottenham Court Road.
4. Hoppers
Inspired by Sri Lankan and Tamil cuisine, Hoppers are famed for their bold flavours and lip-smacking rotis and dosas, so snag a table at their Soho branch to see what all the fuss is about. Failing that, try their branches at St Christopher’s Place in Marylebone or Pancras Square in Kings Cross for a chance to enjoy a pretty unforgettable dinner.
📍 49 Frith Street, W1D 4SG.
🚇 Nearest station is Leicester Square.
5. Rasa Sayang
Image: @rasasayang_london, via IG
Luscious laksa and nasi lemak are the heroes of the menu at Rasa Sayang, a Malaysian spot just off London’s Chinatown. We’d suggest you start with their flaky roti canai and make your merry way on from there, through to mee goreng and melt-in-the-mouth sambal fish fillets.
📍 15 Frith Street, W1D 4RE.
🚇 Nearest station is Tottenham Court Road.
6. Imad’s Syrian Kitchen
Next on our list of the best restaurants in Soho, Imad’s Syrian Kitchen is a Middle Eastern gem found right in the heart of Soho on the top floor of Kingly Court. Run by Imad Alarnab, a successful restaurateur from Damascus who tragically had to flee Syria during the war, his menu pays homage to his homeland with traditional dishes. Explore the likes of ‘Shish Tawook’ – grilled chicken strips with paprika garlic crisps and tomato mayo – and ‘Sharihat Ghanam’ – a succulent lamb fillet doused in sun-dried tomatoes, which you’ll want to mop up with pitta bread.
📍 Top Floor Kingly Court, Carnaby Street, W1B 5PW.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Street.
7. 27 Old Compton Street
Ever find yourself wanting a full plate of pasta after midnight? I’m sure I’m not the only one. This Soho pasta bar is open until 1am on weekends, and it’s the perfect spot to fuel a night out or to congregate after drinks. Of course if you’re not quite done, their delicious pasta menu is complemented by incredible wines and cocktails, including classics like Aperol Spritz and Negronis, and signature serves like their ‘Amalfi’ with Limoncello, Italicus, Cinzano & Montenegro. It’s the best if you’re after quick, fresh and ‘properly Italian’ food at a really reasonable price.
📍 27 Old Compton Street, W1D 5JP.
🚇 Nearest stations are Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus or Tottenham Court Road.
8. Koya
Image: @koyalondon, via IG
Find the queue, and you’ll have found the restaurant. Koya is a supremely popular spot serving up thick, pleasingly chewy udon noodles and donburi bowls of rice and toppings. They’ve acquired something of a cult following during their years in London, and also count locations in the middle of London (Koya City) and a little sister venue in Hackney (Koya Ko). Get to slurping; these might be some of the best noodles in all of London. Don’t miss their shatteringly crispy karaage, either!
📍 50 Frith Street, W1D 4SQ.
🚇 Nearest station is Leicester Square.
9. Robata
‘Robata’ is Japanese for fireside, so it’s no surprise to find charcoal cooking holding sway over this Soho restaurant. Mimicking the famous izakayas of Japan, Robata supplements a wide range of grilled skewers and small plates with a tempting array of sake and cocktails.
📍 56 Old Compton Street, W1D 4UE.
🚇 Nearest station is Leicester Square.
10. Barrafina
Terrific tapas from the OG London locations (they now count five sites in the city), and Soho buzz make this perhaps the closest of the Barrafina quintet to evoking the experience of tucking into croquetas and jambon in Madrid and Barcelona. Round off your meal with a Santiago tart and café con leche, and you’re set. This spot truly is worth the queue.
📍 26-27 Dean Street, W1D 3LL.
🚇 Nearest station is Tottenham Court Road.
11. SOLA
Image: @solasoho, via IG
It’s all about Californian fine dining here, courtesy of culinary maestro Victor Garvey, who more than works his magic in the kitchen. SOLA gets its name from the combination of Soho and LA, a partnership that yields dishes such as kindai bluefin tuna with kinako, leek, avocado and wasabi and mignardises, rum baba, marshmallow and passion fruit. Intriguing stuff we say – no wonder it has bagged itself a Michelin-star…
📍 64 Dean Street, W1D 4QQ.
🚇 Nearest station is Leicester Square.
12. Zima
Promising the ‘best-priced caviar in London’, Zima is a celebration of Russian cuisine, with dishes appearing from across the nation. An on-site bakery churns out bread and pastry, whilst the restaurant satisfies cravings for beef stroganoff and pelmeni (Russian dumplings).
📍 45 Frith Street, W1D 4SD.
🚇 Nearest station is Leicester Square.
13. Kanpai Classic
If you’re after a steak-focused meal, with some of the best meat in the city cooked right in front of you, head to Kanpai Classic. Here, you can enjoy top-notch A5 Wagyu in a variety of forms – from simple steaks to tartare, sushi, and dumplings. Opt for the Signature Wagyu Cuisine Omakase and you’ll enjoy a steady procession of delicious meat-y bites, each cooked to perfection at the table.
📍 147-149 Wardour Street, W1F 8WD.
🚇 Nearest station is Tottenham Court Road.
14. Suvlaki
With a central spot in Soho, Suvlaki is the place to go in the area if you’re looking for mouthwatering Greek food. Winning small plates are the order of the day here, with the courgette fritters not to be missed. The pork suvlaki wraps with tzatziki, red onion, and tomato are also a top-notch choice.
📍 21 Bateman Street, W1D 3AL.
🚇 Nearest station is Tottenham Court Road.
15. BAO
Stuff your face with all the buns at this Soho branch of beloved London chain BAO. While it once commanded Padella-esque queues, they’ve since started accepting reservations, making getting a seat here much easier. Dine on fluffy buns filled with confit pork or fried chicken, and you’ll understand how they’ve held their Michelin Bib Gourmand for 9 years.
📍 53 Lexington Street, W1F 9AS.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
16. Berenjak
Modelled on the hole-in-the-wall eateries of Tehran, Berenjak has a ravishing range of kababs, khoresht, and more Persian dishes on offer. If you can snag a seat, you’ll find a cosy, comfy space hidden behind a curtain, which really is the perfect hideaway to try everything on the menu.
📍 27 Romilly Street, W1D 5AL.
🚇 Nearest station is Leicester Square.
17. Speedboat Bar
Is this restaurant technically in Soho? That depends on how you define the area (aka, probably not). But we’re such fans of this fiery Thai spot that we couldn’t bear to leave it out. Speedboat Bar brings a spirited taste of Bangkok to London, with a restaurant that’s as fun to experience as the food is delicious. Be warned: they don’t play around with spice here. If something is spicy, it’s SPICY!
📍 30 Rupert Street, W1D 6DL.
🚇Nearest station is Piccadilly Circus.
18. Rita’s
This American-ish bistro in London has a tongue-in-cheek approach when it comes to their nevertheless delicious food. Case in point? Rita’s‘ ‘bring your own tomato’ pasta party, where bringing tomatoes netted you a free bowl of pasta made from a ‘community sauce’ using up those same tomatoes. The rest of the time, however, you’ll only find them using carefully sourced meat, fish, produce, and wine.
📍 49 Lexington Street, W1F 9AP.
🚇Nearest stations are Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus.
19. Liu Xiaomian
When our Phoebe went to this noodle bar’s hidden restaurant – under a Marylebone pub – she declared it one of her favourite new spots in London. And Liu Xiaomian’s Carnaby site is just as delicious. Choose your desired spice level and settle in for the ultimate warming (or fiery) bowl of noods.
📍 First floor, Kingly Court, Carnaby, W1B 5PW.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
20. Barshu
When the beloved Barshu opened almost 20 years ago, it has become the place to go in central London if you are looking for fantastic (and fiery) Sichuan cuisine.
📍 28 Frith Street, London, W1D 5LF.
🚇 Nearest station is Leicester Square.
21. Yeni
Another worthy entry on this list of the best Soho restaurants is Yeni – a neighbourhood-style restaurant designed to offer the sharing plates found in modern-day Istanbul. Favourites here include the wood fired lamb cut of the day with potato pavé, samphire, and tamarind chili salsa, and the gibraltar octopus a la plancha. There’s also a full carte blanche tasting menu for £96 per person – if you feel like splurging and enjoying everything they have to offer.
📍 55 Beak Street, Carnaby, London, W1F 9SH.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
22. Blanchette
Happily satisfying two demands – being among the best of London’s French restaurants and best Soho restaurants – Blanchette’s Soho spot heads straight down the Parisian route. Think charcuterie, moules marinière, and cheese and honey pairings at this lovely eatery.
📍 9 D’Arblay Street, W1F 8DR.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
23. The Devonshire
Soho’s most famous pub isn’t just home to stonking pints of Guinness; it also boasts a pretty damn impressive restaurant upstairs. At The Devonsire, the Scottish beef is dry-aged and butchered on site, and their Iberico Ribs have become the stuff of legend. And even if you’re just having a pint downstairs, the bar food is also top-notch.
📍 17 Denman Street, W1D 7HW.
🚇 Nearest station is Piccadilly Circus.
24. Dishoom
With a whole host of restaurants across London, the UK, and the rest of the world, Dishoom remains one of the most talked-about and beloved restaurants in the city. Frequently beset with queues, it’s hard to say whether Dishoom is better renowned for their epic bacon naan breakfast rolls, or a black daal that has stolen the hearts of many a Londoner. It is, quite simply, one of London’s absolute must-try restaurants.
📍 22 Kingly Street, W1B 5QP.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
25. Blacklock
This one comes highly recommended by certain members of the Secret London team, and it’s easy to see why. The Soho branch is their OG, and Blacklock still prides itself on delivering bangin’ meat for affordable prices. Opt for the ‘All In’ for a meaty experience like no other, or pop down on a weekend for a Blacklock take on the Sunday roast with all the trimmings. It’s (as you might expect) a meat-y treat.
📍 24 Great Windmill Street, W1D 7LG.
🚇 Nearest station is Piccadilly Circus.
26. Pastaio
Stevie Parle’s pasta restaurant was an instant hit upon opening just off Carnaby Street in 2017; which is no surprise, really, since Pastaio translates to ‘the pasta maker’. This Italian entry onto this list of Soho restaurants keeps things nice and simple: sharing tables, brilliant cocktails, and a range of excellent, affordable pasta dishes. Oh, and there’s always something exciting for dessert.
📍 19 Ganton Street, W1F 9BN.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
27. Lina Stores
What started as a brilliant Italian deli has turned into a city-commanding selection of restaurants and secretive aperitivo bars and – yes, still – delis. Lina Stores are as famous for their mint-green aesthetics as they are for winning plates of pasta. Enjoy a simple menu and plenty of deli goods at their Brewer Street site, or settle in for a relaxed meal at their nearby Greek Street restaurant. You’re spoiled for choice in Soho.
📍 51 Greek Street, W1D 4EH & 18 Brewer Street, W1F 0SH.
🚇 Nearest stations are Tottenham Court Road & Piccadilly Circus.
28. Mildred’s
Having graced Soho for almost thirty years, Mildred’s is one of the best-loved vegan restaurants in town. Here, your plant-based food comes in the guise of Sri Lankan curries, halloumi burgers, and even a sticky toffee carrot cake. Whoever said eating clean was boring clearly never ate here…
📍 45 Lexington Street, W1F 9AN.
🚇 Nearest station is Piccadilly Circus.
29. Brasserie Zedel
Marble pillars, gilded ceilings and Art Deco paintings make up the surroundings inside Brasserie Zedel, which might not be something you’d expect in a place where a two-course meal will only set you back £17. Situated just a stone’s throw from Piccadilly Circus, this traditional brasserie might look unassuming from the outside, but on the inside, they spare no expense when it comes to decor – and the food is dreamy too! They also have a great range of events and gigs on in the evenings.
📍 20 Sherwood Street, W1F 7ED.
🚇 Nearest station is Piccadilly Circus.
30. Chotto Matte
Image: @chottomatteldn, via IG
If you’re looking for some top-notch sushi and beautifully-presented plates, then this Japanese-Peruvian fusion joint will hit the spot. Offering a variety of set menus and an extensive menu designed for you to pick multiple sharing dishes, Chotto Matte is ideal for a well-deserved meal after a long day hitting the shops.
📍 11-13 Frith Street, W1D 4RB.
🚇 Nearest station is Leicester Square.
31. Bancone
Image: @bancone.pasta, via IG
Bancone’s brilliant pasta dishes put this spot right up there with the very best fresh pasta places in town, a reputation powered in part by their photogenic (and utterly delicious) ‘silk handkerchiefs’ – giant sheets of pasta draped with walnut butter and a confit egg yolk. Truly outstanding stuff. There’s also a branch in Covent Garden, too, so you can take your pick of either.
📍 8-10 Lower James Street, London, W1F 9EL.
🚇 Nearest station is Piccadilly Circus.
32. St Moritz Restaurant
Not to be confused with the actual St Moritz village in Switzerland, this cosy restaurant – London’s oldest Swiss restaurant – is all about those alpine flavours. Expect to be transported to a Swiss lodge as you stuff your face with all the melted cheese, fondue and crusty bread your heart desires. Go to St Moritz Restaurant with an empty belly and you’ll be sure to leave in a very ‘Gouda’ mood.
📍 161 Wardour Street, W1F 8WJ.
🚇 Nearest station is Tottenham Court Road.
33. Bob Bob Ricard
If you haven’t been to this glitzy, glamorous restaurant with the ‘Press For Champagne’ button, you simply haven’t lived, dahhhhhling. Serving up luxury English and Russian fare, you can expect to dine on caviar, truffle pies and a fine selection of meaty mains. Best get your glad rags on and get yourself down to Bob Bob Ricard, we reckon.
📍 1 Upper James Street, W1F 9DF.
🚇 Nearest station is Piccadilly Circus.
34. Taro
Whipping up classic Japanese dishes, Taro is the spot to go in Soho if you’re looking for bento boxes, sushi, and noodle dishes,
📍 61 Brewer Street, London, W1F 9UW.
🚇 Nearest station is Piccadilly Circus.
35. Japes
Firmly deserving their spot on this list of the best Soho restaurants, laid-back Japes is the place to come for their unique “London-style” pizzas. The special pies mash together their favourite attributes from their original Deep Dish pizza with elements of Detroit Style, Sicilian Style, and Grandma Style pies too.
📍 22-25 Dean Street, London, W1D 3RY.
🚇 Nearest station is Tottenham Court Road.
36. Dean Street Townhouse
Situated slap-bang in the middle of Soho, this charming spot occupies two Georgian townhouses constructed in the first half of the 18th-century. In here you’ll find modern British artwork adorning the walls, vintage furniture, and a crackling fire in the parlour – what more could you ask for? Food here is classic British fare – think Isle of Jersey rock oysters for starters, Yorkshire roast chicken and grilled Dover sole. Dean Street Townhouse – it ticks the box for us.
📍 69-71 Dean Street, London, W1D 3SE.
🚇 Nearest station is Tottenham Court Road.
37. 10 Greek Street
10 Greek Street is a lovely little spot which first opened its doors in 2012, and it has been charming winers and diners (and restaurant critics) ever since. Here you can tuck into fresh, seasonal dishes with premium British ingredients from a menu that changes daily.
📍 10 Greek Street, London, W1D 4DH.
🚇 Nearest station is Tottenham Court Road.
38. Berners Tavern
This Soho spot serves up delicious grub in a super cosy and welcoming environment. At Berners Tavern, diners can expect to tuck into the likes of a sharing Chateaubriand with marmite butter, or their famous Berners Tavern Mac and Cheese – which can be amped up with the addition of lobster! Oh, and they serve up a pretty mean roast on Sundays, too.
📍 10 Berners Street, W1T 3NP.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
39. Club Mexicana
Rounding off our list of the best restaurants in Soho is Club Mexicana. Inspired by the lively street food taquerias of Mexico City and LA, this spot has been rustling up ultra-tasty tacos since it opened back in 2014. Their unbelievably delicious (and completely vegan) menu has made waves across the beloved capital – and it’s pretty easy to see why. Be sure not to miss their scrummy frozen drinks when you visit!
📍 Ground Floor, Kingly Court, W1B 5PW.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
So there you have it – the Secret London roundup of some truly terrific Soho restaurants that’ll tempt any Londoner. From Sri Lankan to Russian to Persian, all tastes are covered, so you’d better loosen that waistband. Happy eating!