Discover the Best Place to Eat in Soho: A 2026 Guide
- comedyinyoureye
- 3 hours ago
- 11 min read
Right then, Soho. It's a place that's always buzzing, isn't it? Whether you're after a quick bite or a proper sit-down meal, this part of London really does have something for everyone. We've had a look around and pulled together a few spots that we think are some of the best places to eat in Soho, perfect for your 2026 foodie adventures. It's a bit of a mix, really, from proper street food to places that feel a bit more special. So, have a read and see what takes your fancy.
Key Takeaways
Berwick Street Market offers fantastic, quick street food options like spicy pad thai, perfect for a budget-friendly lunch.
Kricket serves up delicious Indian small plates with bold flavours, ideal for a memorable and fast lunch.
Bao is the go-to for authentic Taiwanese street food, with their signature soft bao buns being a must-try.
For a classic taste of Britain, Poppies Fish & Chips provides traditional, comforting fare in a retro setting.
Kiln offers an exciting dining experience with its focus on Thai-inspired dishes cooked over open fire.
1. Quo Vadis
Quo Vadis has been a fixture in Soho for ages, and it’s still a place that feels special. It’s got this vibe that’s both classic and a bit buzzy, you know? The place itself is pretty smart, with a dining room that feels a bit grand but not stuffy. They do a mix of Italian-inspired dishes, and the quality of the ingredients really shines through. It’s the sort of spot where you can go for a proper meal, maybe a business lunch or a nice dinner with friends.
It’s a place that manages to feel both historic and very much alive.
What’s good to know about Quo Vadis:
The menu changes, but you can usually expect things like fresh pasta, good quality meats, and some interesting seafood options.
They have a decent wine list, with choices that pair well with the food.
The service is generally attentive, making you feel looked after without being over the top.
It’s one of those restaurants that just gets it right – good food, nice atmosphere, and a location that’s hard to beat if you’re in the heart of Soho.
If you’re looking for a reliable, stylish place for a meal that feels a bit of an occasion, Quo Vadis is definitely worth considering. It’s not trying to be trendy, it just is good.
2. Berenjak
Berenjak brings a taste of Persia to the heart of Soho, and it’s a spot that really gets going. It’s from the same people behind Bao and Hoppers, so you know it’s going to be good. Even though it’s not the biggest place, it manages to feel really lively, especially if you can snag a seat where you can see the open kitchen in action. They do some interesting grills here; the poussin is a standout. It’s marinated in chilli, red pepper, sumac, and garlic, and the slightly burnt bits give it a great flavour.
The atmosphere is vibrant and the staff are keen to help, making for a pleasant meal.
Here’s what you might want to try:
Poussin: Marinated and grilled to perfection.
Hummus: A popular starter that gets good reviews.
Various kebabs: Cooked over charcoal for that authentic flavour.
Berenjak offers a cosy and welcoming vibe, though it’s worth noting that some people have mentioned the service can be a bit hit-and-miss. Still, the food, particularly the hummus, is often praised, and the overall feel of the place is generally positive.
It’s a good option if you’re looking for something a bit different in Soho, and the prices are pretty reasonable too, so your wallet won't feel too much strain after your meal.
3. The French House
Right, so The French House. It’s one of those places that feels like it’s always been here, a proper Soho institution. You know, the kind of spot where history just sort of hangs in the air. Apparently, Charles de Gaulle himself scribbled out some wartime speech in here, which is pretty wild to think about. And it wasn't just him; loads of artists and writers like Francis Bacon and Dylan Thomas used to hang out at the bar downstairs. It’s still a proper pub vibe down there, always busy, with art and bits and bobs on the walls.
But the real gem, if you can get a table, is upstairs. It’s a tiny dining room, seriously small, with only about seven tables. Booking this place is a bit of a mission, so plan ahead! Chef Neil Borthwick is in charge, and he’s got some serious pedigree, having worked in some pretty fancy kitchens before. The food is simple but really well done. Think things like confit garlic on sourdough, and they finish things off with freshly baked madeleines. It’s a proper intimate experience, a world away from the buzz downstairs.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might find on the menu:
Starters often feature things like goat's curd on sourdough or seasonal small plates.
Main courses tend to be classic, well-executed dishes.
Desserts are usually simple but satisfying, like their famous madeleines.
It’s the sort of place that feels both historic and alive, a real slice of Soho that’s managed to keep its character. Don't expect anything flashy, just good food and a unique atmosphere.
4. Kiln
Kiln on Brewer Street is a bit of a legend in Soho, and for good reason. It's all about Thai food, but not just any Thai food – this is the kind cooked over open flames, giving everything a really distinct, smoky flavour. You'll want to book ahead, seriously, it gets busy.
They do a few things really well, but the clay pot glass noodles and the grilled Tamworth pork collar are the ones people rave about. It's not a huge place, so the atmosphere is always buzzing. Sit up at the stainless-steel counter and watch the chefs stoke and tame the fires to produce authentic-tasting northern Thai dishes, baked in clay pots over the charcoal barbecue. It’s pure theatre for food lovers, and the dishes boast memorably intense flavours – from the dry spice rubs used on the fresher-than-fresh fish, to the lashings of ginger and spice in the beef-neck curry.
Here's what you can expect:
Clay Pot Glass Noodles: A signature dish, rich and flavourful.
Grilled Tamworth Pork Collar: Tender, smoky, and perfectly cooked.
Northern Thai Dishes: Authentic flavours cooked over charcoal.
Kiln is the sequel to the much-loved Thai barbecue joint Smoking Goat. It's a place where the focus is squarely on the quality of the ingredients and the cooking method, resulting in dishes that are both gutsy and stripped back.
5. Heard
Heard is a bit of a revelation if you're after a seriously good burger without any fuss. Tucked away on Foubert's Place, just off Carnaby Street, this place focuses on high-quality fast food, and they really nail it. The star of the show is undoubtedly the Heard Burger. It’s a masterclass in simplicity done right: two thin, smashed beef patties made with British beef from regenerative farms, layered with melted Ogleshield cheese, a touch of jalapeño hot honey for a gentle kick, finely chopped white onion, their special burger sauce, and pickles. All of this is piled into buns that are perfectly soft and just a little bit messy – in the best way possible, of course.
It’s not just about the burger though. They’ve got a few other bits and pieces on the menu, but honestly, the Heard Burger is what you come for. It’s surprisingly classy for a burger joint, and you won't find yourself wincing at the bill either, which is a nice bonus.
If you're looking for a quick, satisfying meal that doesn't compromise on flavour or quality, Heard is a solid choice. It’s the kind of place that makes you appreciate the simple things done exceptionally well. It’s a great spot for a casual lunch or a pre-theatre bite.
Heard is all about doing one thing and doing it exceptionally well. The focus on quality ingredients, particularly the regenerative British beef, really shines through in every bite. It’s a refreshing change from overly complicated menus.
For a taste of what makes Heard so special, check out their burger menu.
6. Rita’s
Rita's is a spot that really knows how to make you feel welcome. It’s got this cosy vibe with its red leather booths and wooden furniture, plus a really cool tiled bar. If you're after a place to just chill with mates and watch the world go by, this is definitely it. They’ve even got a little garden space out back, which is a bit of a treat in central London.
The team here are all about sustainability, which is pretty great to see. While the menu isn't huge, they keep it focused, and honestly, it works. It means they can really nail what they do.
It’s the kind of place that feels both lively and relaxed, perfect for catching up over some good snacks and a drink. You won't find yourself overwhelmed by choice, but what they do serve is done well.
They do a cracking cocktail list, and the snacks are spot on for sharing. It’s a nice place to just hang out and enjoy the atmosphere. If you're looking for a friendly face and a good time in Soho, Rita's is a solid choice. It's a nice place in the Soho area that gets a lot of things right.
7. Bubula
Bubula is a vegetarian Middle Eastern spot that's popped up in Soho, joining its siblings in Shoreditch and King's Cross. It's a great place if you're looking for something a bit different, especially if you're trying to avoid meat. They do all the usual suspects like hummus and falafel, but they also get a bit more adventurous.
The leek kebabs, marinated in mango and charred, are a real standout. They manage to pack a lot of flavour into their dishes, making vegetarian food exciting. It's the kind of place where you can try a few small plates and share them around.
Here's a little taste of what you might find:
Charred leek kebabs with mango marinade
Creamy hummus with warm pitta
Crispy falafel with tahini sauce
Spiced aubergine dishes
It's a good option for a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner when you want something tasty and meat-free. The vibe is usually pretty buzzy, so it's worth considering if you like a bit of atmosphere with your meal.
8. Kricket
Kricket on Denman Street is a spot that really brings the heat with its take on Indian small plates. It's a place that's become quite popular for a reason, offering a bit of a different vibe to your usual Soho grub. They've got a knack for putting together flavours that are both familiar and excitingly new.
If you're thinking about what to order, you can't really go wrong with their samphire pakoras – they're a real standout. The Keralan fried chicken is another popular choice, and it's easy to see why. It’s the kind of food that’s perfect for sharing, so grab a few friends and order a selection.
Here are a few things that make Kricket worth a visit:
Bold Flavours: They aren't shy with the spices and seasonings, making each dish memorable.
Sharing Plates: Ideal for trying a bit of everything on the menu.
Vibrant Atmosphere: The setting adds to the overall dining experience.
While the food is generally well-received, some diners have noted that certain dishes could benefit from a bit more depth, and the price point might feel a little high for the portion sizes. It's worth keeping in mind when you're planning your Soho dining adventure. It's a solid choice for a lunch that feels a bit more special than your average sandwich, or for a relaxed evening meal where you want to try something a bit different. Just be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially during peak times.
9. Bao
If you're after some seriously tasty Taiwanese street food, Bao on Lexington Street is the place to be. It's all about the bao buns here, and they really do them justice. They're incredibly soft and fluffy, like little clouds, and the fillings are just spot on. You've got your classic braised pork, which is a must-try, but they do other interesting combinations too.
It's a pretty small spot, so don't expect loads of room, but the atmosphere is always buzzing. It's the kind of place you pop into for a quick, satisfying bite rather than a long, drawn-out meal. The focus is squarely on the quality of the bao itself. Each one is a testament to simple ingredients done exceptionally well.
Expect to pay around £12-£18 for a few bao, which feels about right for the quality you're getting. It's definitely a popular choice, so be prepared for a potential wait, especially during peak times. It's worth it though for a genuine taste of Taiwanese street food done right.
Here's what makes Bao stand out:
Fluffy Buns: The signature steamed buns are light as air.
Inventive Fillings: From classic pork to more adventurous options.
Quick & Delicious: Perfect for a speedy, flavour-packed meal.
Bao really nails that Taiwanese street food vibe. It’s not a place for a lingering dinner, but for a truly satisfying snack or a light meal, it’s hard to beat.
10. Poppies Fish & Chips
If you're craving a proper taste of British tradition, Poppies Fish & Chips on Old Compton Street is the spot. It’s a real classic, serving up generous portions of that beloved comfort food: fish and chips. The vibe inside is super retro, with old-school decor that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time. It’s a great place for a satisfying lunch that feels like a real treat.
They do a cracking job of keeping the classic fish and chip experience authentic.
Here's what you can expect:
Fish Options: Usually cod or haddock, fried to perfection.
Sides: Mushy peas, pickled onions, and of course, chips.
Drinks: A selection of beers and soft drinks to wash it all down.
It's the kind of place that's perfect when you just need something familiar and delicious, done really well. You won't find any fancy frills here, just good, honest food. Poppies offers a straightforward, enjoyable meal that hits the spot every time. It's a reliable choice for anyone wanting to experience a quintessential British dish in a fun, nostalgic setting. The dining experience here is pleasant, with a welcoming atmosphere and discreet service, making it a solid choice for a classic meal.
Poppies offers a straightforward, enjoyable meal that hits the spot every time. It's a reliable choice for anyone wanting to experience a quintessential British dish in a fun, nostalgic setting.
So, What's Next for Your Soho Foodie Journey?
Right then, we've covered quite a bit of ground, haven't we? Soho really is a place that keeps on giving when it comes to food, and honestly, we've only just scratched the surface. Whether you're after a quick bite from a market stall or a more sit-down affair, there's always something new to try or an old favourite to revisit. Don't be afraid to wander down those side streets – sometimes the best discoveries are the ones you stumble upon by accident. So, get out there, explore, and most importantly, enjoy every single bite. Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to get around Soho?
Soho is a really walkable area, so your best bet is to explore on foot! You're also close to several Tube stations like Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus, and Tottenham Court Road, making it easy to get to and from.
Are there places to eat in Soho for people on a budget?
Absolutely! Berwick Street Market is fantastic for tasty and affordable street food. You can find loads of delicious options there without spending too much money.
What kind of food can I expect in Soho?
Soho has a bit of everything! You'll find amazing Indian food, delicious Taiwanese bao, classic British fish and chips, and fancy French dishes. There's something to suit every taste and craving.
Is Soho good for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, many places offer great vegetarian and vegan options. Places like Kricket have tasty veggie dishes, and you can often find plant-based choices at markets and other restaurants too.
When is the best time to visit Soho's restaurants?
Soho is buzzing all the time! For a more relaxed vibe, try visiting during lunchtime on a weekday. Evenings and weekends are livelier, but it's always a good idea to book ahead for popular spots.
Can I find nice places for a special occasion meal in Soho?
Definitely! Places like Balthazar offer a more elegant dining experience, perfect for celebrating something special. Many restaurants in Soho feel a bit fancy and make any meal feel like an event.