Soho is one of the most vibrant, energetic, and forward-thinking spots in all of London. Aside from being known as an iconic fashion scene throughout the ages, and a great place for nightlife, food is where the neighbourhood really shines. This is especially true if you love to try the cuisines of the world, as there’s no shortage of international eateries. Here are just some of the food scenes best represented in the area.
AD – please note this post is a collaboration post and written by me.
Japanese
Fast-growing and popular for its sense of precision, balance, and sense of respect for ingredients, Soho offers a very wide offering of Japanese food venues, including high-tier sushi spots and super comfortable ramen bowls. You can also have Izakaya-style dining at spots like HIMI for those who want a great night out with some friends, a more social type of restaurant that serves small plates designed for sharing alongside drinks. Given the upbeat and ever-colourful nature of Soho, Japanese dining can offer a much calmer, more refined contrast.
Mexican
If you’re looking for something a little more vibrant, bringing the colour and energy you expect of the neighbourhood, then Mexican cuisine spots are well worth trying out. Some of them harken to more authentic traditional foods, like Fonda, while other spots like El Pastor might not be quite as close to the original recipes, but bring enough of the flavours, spices, and street food feel that can make for a great bite on a night out.
Italian
Although it’s a style that might be a lot more familiar to anyone fond of pizza, pasta, and other staples, the simplicity and relaxed dining culture of Italian cuisine is always worth stopping for. You can still find plenty of new flavours at spots like Polpo, a traditional Venetian restaurant in Soho, with emphasis on seasonal produce and some high-quality olive oil to go with hand-picked ingredients. Perfect for those who love a more rustic flavour.
Filipino
Although often slept on by travellers, Filipino cuisine is a treasure trove of both bold and comforting flavours, taking inspiration from Spanish, Chinese, and Southeast Asian traditions. Spots like Kasa and Kin are a perfect example of how these can all blend into a rich heritage of foods that are often designed for family-style dining, emphasising sharing and a sense of togetherness, with delicious fragrant rices, hearty stews, and plenty of grilled meats.
Middle Eastern
Although the region realistically encompasses way too many regions and traditions to be considered one cuisine, don’t let that stop you from exploring spots like Yasmin, a gorgeous rooftop restaurant perfect for date nights with foods designed to be enjoyed over conversation, including meze spreads with hummus, grilled meats, fresh salads, and warm flatbreads. The herbs and spices are the lifeblood of the rich tapestry of flavours offered by these spots, and super-abundant serving sizes are common.
If you’re looking for a spot that keeps serving up world-class international foods with no danger of running out of places to try, Soho definitely deserves a little more of your attention.
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