Sipping, Savoring, and Strolling
Nestled in the heart of London, Soho is filled with history, culture and cosmopolitan flair. A vibrant neighbourhood that comes alive with character, charm, and whispers of its bohemian past. It’s the perfect setting for an afternoon or evening that feels like a small adventure, brimming with coffee aromas, candlelit dinners, and jazz-filled alleys. Let us guide you through a curated experience, blending timeless elegance with the lively spirit of Soho.
Begin with a Perfect Cup of Coffee
Begin your Soho exploration at Bar Italia on Frith Street, a quintessential Italian coffee spot where the cappuccinos are sublime, and the people-watching is unmatched. Their vintage Gaggia machine has been serving perfect shots since 1949. For something quieter, wander over to Hideaway Coffee, tucked into a serene courtyard off Brewer Street. It's an idyllic spot for catching up with a friend or soaking in Soho's creative pulse with a book in hand.
The Art of Wandering
Soho rewards the unhurried explorer. Beyond the boutique-lined Carnaby Street lies a network of lanes and alleyways where London's creative soul truly resides. Meander down Berwick Street, where vinyl record shops sit alongside century-old fabric merchants. Step into Liberty London – not just a department store, but a testament to the power of craftsmanship, its Tudor beams and exceptional curation reflecting Moncada's belief in objects that tell stories.
Early Evening: Savoring the Flavors of Soho
Dinner options in Soho are as diverse as the city itself, but some places are particularly special. At Andrew Edmunds, housed in an 18th-century townhouse, offers a candlelit atmosphere and a menu that changes with the seasons. For a modern twist, Rita's combines American dining with British produce, creating a space that's as vibrant as the neighbourhood it calls home. Or, settle into a corner at Café Boheme, where live jazz floats through the air while you sip a cocktail and enjoy classic French dishes.
The Perfect Cocktail Spot
Soho's bar scene is legendary, with each venue offering its own narrative. For a sophisticated start, descend into Bar Lina, tucked beneath the beloved Lina Stores deli, where masterfully crafted cocktails await. Bar Termini is another favourite, a compact espresso and cocktail bar serving impeccable negronis that could rival the best in Milan. For something bold and atmospheric, explore La Bodega Negra, where mezcal cocktails meet the intrigue of its clandestine, low-lit interiors. Here, as in all of Soho's finest establishments, it's the details that elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary.
A Night of Music and Magic
Music is the heartbeat of Soho, and venues like Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club make this district iconic. The worn red velvet seats have cradled jazz enthusiasts for generations, each performance adding another layer to the club's rich patina of stories. It's a place where time seems to stand still, in the best possible way.
For those seeking a more bohemian hideaway, Trisha's Jazz Club on Greek Street beckons with a more intimate, old-world charm. Tucked behind an unassuming blue door, this basement club features checkered tablecloths, black-and-white photos, and a palpable sense of history. Meanwhile, Ain't Nothin' But the Blues Bar serves up soulful melodies and a welcoming atmosphere that carries you deep into the night.
Notes for Future Visits
Some important aspects of Soho visits are:
Power Lunches: Try snagging a seat at The Devonshire. Their gastropub fare is elevated yet approachable, with a hidden “green room” behind the bar that offers an intimate dining experience.
Hidden Moments: Soho’s streets are full of surprises. Stumbling into a quiet courtyard or a new independent boutique often leads to the most memorable experiences.
Enchanting Evenings Await
As dusk settles over Soho, the quarter transforms once again. Neon signs begin their nightly dance, casting warm glows across centuries-old brickwork. This is when Soho's true magic emerges - in the contrast between old and new, in the collision of traditions, in the endless possibilities that each turning brings.
Like the artisanal pieces we curate at Moncada, Soho is a testament to the beauty of things that age gracefully, that tell stories, that become more precious with time. Let its streets be your guide to an evening of discovery, where each moment adds another thread to the rich tapestry of your own journey.
