Discover the Best Places to Eat in Soho: A Londoner's Guide

Soho, right? It's one of those places in London that just buzzes with energy, especially when it comes to food. You can wander down pretty much any street and stumble upon something amazing to eat. From fancy cakes to proper spicy curries, there's a bit of everything. It can be a bit much to take in, honestly, so I thought I'd share some of my favourite spots, the best places to eat in Soho, to help you out a bit. Think of it as a little cheat sheet from a local.

Key Takeaways

• For a sweet treat that's a bit different, check out Cutter & Squidge for their unique Dream Cakes and Biskies.

• When you need a serious chocolate fix, SAID dal 1923 on Broadwick Street serves up some incredibly rich hot chocolate.

• If you're after authentic Indian flavours, Dishoom is a popular choice, and for a quick, tasty bite, Kati Roll Co offers delicious Indian rolls.

• Soho's Kingly Court is a lively spot with lots of different food options, perfect for a varied dining experience.

• For a taste of Taiwan, BAO Soho is well worth the queue, and Masala Zone offers a satisfying Thali experience.

Sweet Indulgences in Soho

Soho isn't just about the buzz and the bright lights; it's also a proper haven for anyone with a sweet tooth. Forget your diet for an afternoon and dive into some of the most delightful treats the area has to offer. From whimsical cakes to seriously rich hot chocolate, there's something to make everyone's day a bit brighter.

This cheerful spot on Brewer Street is a must-visit. Cutter & Squidge really knows how to make a cake look as good as it tastes. They're famous for their

Global Flavours on Your Doorstep

Soho isn't just about the bright lights and theatre; it's a proper melting pot of tastes from all over the world. You can seriously eat your way around the globe without even leaving a few streets. It’s brilliant for when you fancy something specific, or just want to try something totally new.

Authentic Indian Cuisine at Dishoom

Dishoom is a name that pops up a lot when you talk about good Indian food in London, and for good reason. They've got a few branches, but the Soho one always feels buzzing. It’s not just your standard curry house, mind you. They take inspiration from the old Irani cafés of Bombay, and the vibe inside is really something else – all vintage fans and old photos.

• Must-try dishes: The Black Daal is legendary, slow-cooked for ages until it's incredibly rich. Their Bacon Naan Roll is a breakfast game-changer, and the Chicken Ruby curry is a classic for a reason.

• Expect a wait: It's popular, so be prepared to queue, especially at peak times. They don't take bookings for smaller groups, but it's usually worth the wait.

• Vibe: Lively, often loud, and always full of people enjoying themselves.

The atmosphere at Dishoom is as much a part of the experience as the food itself. It’s a place that feels both familiar and excitingly new, a real testament to the power of good food and thoughtful design.

Kati Rolls for a Quick Bite

If you need something tasty and quick, you can't go wrong with a kati roll. Think of it as a flavour-packed wrap, perfect for grabbing on the go. There are a few places doing them, but the ones that stand out really nail the balance of spices and textures.

• What's inside: Usually a filling like marinated chicken, lamb, or paneer (Indian cheese), all wrapped up in a soft roti or a crispier paratha. Some places offer veggie options too.

• Great for: A speedy lunch, a pre-theatre snack, or just when you fancy something satisfying without a big sit-down meal.

• Flavour profile: Savoury, often a little spicy, and always comforting.

Syrian Kitchen Delights

Soho has some fantastic spots for Syrian food, offering a different kind of Middle Eastern flavour. It's often less about the heavy curries and more about fresh, vibrant dishes with incredible use of herbs and spices.

• Typical dishes: You'll find things like mezze platters with hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh. Main courses might include grilled meats marinated in fragrant spices, or slow-cooked stews.

• Don't miss: Try the kibbeh, which are little fried or baked parcels usually filled with spiced meat and bulgur wheat. They're addictive!

• Experience: Often family-run places with a warm, welcoming feel, making you feel like you're eating in someone's home.

Soho's Culinary Hotspots

Soho is a real hub for foodies, you know? It feels like every street has something new and exciting to try. It's not just about the big names; there are so many little places tucked away that are just brilliant. You could spend weeks here and still not try everything.

When you're exploring, definitely keep an eye out for these areas:

• Kingly Court: This place is buzzing. It's a three-storey courtyard packed with restaurants and bars. You can get everything from spicy Indian food to Mediterranean dishes and late-night drinks. It's a great spot if you're with a group because everyone can find something they fancy. It's a proper Soho dining scene experience.

• Carnaby Street: Beyond the shops, Carnaby has some really interesting places to eat. It's a pedestrianised area, so it's nice to wander around. You'll find a mix of global flavours and some places that are just a bit different.

• Beak Street: This street is a bit of a mix. You've got fashion and food, and some places do interesting fusion dishes. It's worth a stroll to see what catches your eye.

It's easy to get a bit overwhelmed by all the choices in Soho, but that's part of the fun. Just let your nose guide you sometimes, or pop into a place that looks busy. That's usually a good sign.

Here's a quick look at what you might find:

Area	Vibe	Food Style Examples
Kingly Court	Lively, Courtyard	Indian, Mediterranean, Global
Carnaby Street	Trendy, Pedestrianised	International, Unique Concepts
Beak Street	Fashion-forward, Fusion	Spanish-Welsh Fusion, Various

Unique Bites and Casual Eats

Soho isn't just about fancy sit-down meals, you know. Sometimes, you just want something a bit different, a quick bite that packs a punch without breaking the bank. This part of town really shines when it comes to those more casual, specialist spots that do one thing and do it brilliantly. It’s perfect for when you’re on the go, catching up with a mate, or just fancy trying something new.

Hand-Crafted Crisps at Hip Chips

Forget your standard multipack from the corner shop. Hip Chips takes the humble potato crisp to a whole new level. They use heritage potatoes, grown up north, which gives them this amazing variety of colours and flavours. And the dips? Oh, the dips are something else. You can get classic favourites, but they also do things like baba ganoush, cheese fondue, and even katsu curry. If you're feeling a bit peckish and wandering down Old Compton Street, this is a proper treat. They even have sweet options, like s'mores or chocolate and salted caramel, if that’s your thing. It’s a simple idea, but they’ve really nailed it.

Taiwanese Delights at BAO Soho

If you haven't tried BAO yet, you're missing out. This place is famous for its Taiwanese steamed buns, and for good reason. They're fluffy, pillowy clouds of deliciousness, stuffed with all sorts of tasty fillings. The classic pork belly is always a winner, but don't shy away from the other options – they're all pretty special. It’s the kind of place where you can easily order a few different things to share. Be warned though, it can get busy, so you might have to wait a bit, but honestly, it’s worth it. They do a great set menu during the week if you're looking for a good deal.

Masala Zone's Thali Experience

For a proper taste of India without the fuss of a formal restaurant, Masala Zone is a solid choice. Their thalis are brilliant. You get a selection of small dishes – curries, dals, rice, chutneys, and a sweet – all served on a platter. It’s a fantastic way to try a bit of everything. You can pick your own thali or go for one of their set ones. It’s always fresh, flavourful, and feels like a really authentic experience. Plus, it’s pretty good value for money, especially if you’re feeling really hungry. It’s a great spot for a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner.

Soho has a knack for these smaller, focused eateries. They often have a really passionate team behind them, dedicated to perfecting a specific dish or type of cuisine. It's these kinds of places that add so much character to the area, offering a more personal and often more exciting food journey than you might find elsewhere.

Exploring Soho's Best Places to Eat

Soho is a bit of a maze, isn't it? Every corner you turn, there's something new popping up, especially when it comes to food. It can feel a bit overwhelming trying to figure out where to even start. But that's the fun of it, really. This area is a real melting pot, and you can find pretty much any kind of food you fancy if you just look around.

Discovering Hidden Culinary Treasures

Sometimes the best spots aren't the ones plastered all over social media. You know, those little places tucked away down side streets? They often have the most authentic food and a really cosy atmosphere. It's worth taking a wander and just seeing what catches your eye. You might stumble upon your new favourite place.

A Londoner's Guide to Soho Dining

As a Londoner, I've learned a few things about eating in Soho. It's not just about the big names; it's about the experience. Think about what you're in the mood for. Are you after a quick bite, a sit-down meal, or something a bit special?

Here are a few things I always keep in mind:

• Location, Location, Location: Soho is packed. Kingly Court is great for a lively vibe with lots of options stacked on top of each other. Carnaby Street has a mix of well-known places and some cool independent spots. Beak Street often has some interesting fusion places.

• Budget: Soho can be pricey, but there are definitely ways to eat well without breaking the bank. Look out for lunch deals or places that specialise in smaller, more affordable dishes.

• Cuisine: What are you craving? Indian, Syrian, Taiwanese, or maybe just some really good chips? Soho has it all.

Soho's food scene is constantly changing, with new places opening all the time. It's a place that rewards curiosity and a willingness to try something different. Don't be afraid to step off the main drag and explore.

Top Picks for Every Palate

No matter what you're after, Soho has something to tickle your taste buds. From those amazing biskies at Cutter & Squidge that are just too pretty to eat (but you will, don't worry) to the seriously thick hot chocolate at SAID dal 1923 that's like a hug in a mug. If you're feeling adventurous, try the hand-crafted crisps at Hip Chips with all sorts of wild dips, or grab a flavour-packed kati roll for a quick refuel. And for something a bit different, the Syrian Kitchen offers some really warming dishes. It’s a place where you can really eat your way around the world without even leaving the neighbourhood.

Soho's Food Scene: Just the Beginning

Right then, that's just a little taste of what Soho has to offer food-wise. It's easy to get lost in the sheer number of places, but hopefully, this gives you a good starting point. Whether you're after something sweet, a quick bite, or a proper sit-down meal, Soho really does have it all. Don't be afraid to wander down those side streets – you never know what delicious finds are waiting around the corner. Let me know in the comments if you've got any personal favourites I've missed out on!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sweet treats can I find in Soho?

Soho has some amazing places for sweets! You can get fancy layered cakes called 'Dream Cakes' and unique 'Biskies' (a mix of biscuit, cookie, and cake) at Cutter & Squidge. If you love chocolate, SAID dal 1923 serves incredibly thick and rich hot chocolate. And for something different, Tsujiri offers delicious matcha treats like sundaes and lattes.

Where can I get some tasty Indian food in Soho?

Dishoom is a super popular spot for Indian food, inspired by old cafes in Bombay. They have a huge menu with lots of choices, and their brunch is great for groups. You can also try Kati Roll Co. for quick and tasty Indian wraps called 'Kati Rolls', which are filled with yummy meats or veggies.

Are there places in Soho for a quick and casual bite?

Definitely! Hip Chips offers handmade crisps with all sorts of interesting dips, perfect for a snack while you're out and about. BAO Soho is famous for its Taiwanese steamed buns, and Masala Zone serves a great Indian meal called a 'Thali' which is a big plate with rice and different dishes.

What makes Kingly Court and Carnaby Street special for foodies?

Kingly Court is a lively spot with three floors packed with great restaurants and bars, offering food from all over the world. Carnaby Street is also a hub for eating and drinking, with lots of cool places to try, from fiery Indian dishes to Mediterranean food. They're both really vibrant areas!

Can I find food from other parts of the world in Soho?

Absolutely! Soho is brilliant for trying food from everywhere. You can find authentic Indian food at Dishoom, delicious Taiwanese dishes at BAO Soho, and Syrian food at Imad's Syrian Kitchen. There are also places offering Mediterranean and other international flavours.

What are some 'must-try' unique food experiences in Soho?

For something a bit different, you have to try the hand-crafted crisps at Hip Chips, which come with amazing dips. BAO Soho is brilliant for its Taiwanese steamed buns, and if you're a fan of matcha, Tsujiri has some fantastic green tea desserts and drinks. Don't forget the incredibly rich hot chocolate at SAID dal 1923!