Delicious Destinations: Top 10 Restaurants in Soho and the West End

Soho and the West End form one of London’s most exciting culinary landscapes, offering an incredible diversity of dining experiences to suit every palate and budget. From Michelin-starred establishments to casual eateries serving global street food, families will find a wealth of options. Many restaurants are accustomed to pre-theatre diners and can offer quicker service if needed, which is always a bonus when eating out with children. Remember to check for children’s menus or portion availability, and booking ahead is often recommended, especially for popular spots or during peak times. Price indications are based on a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine or an equivalent, including taxes and charges: £ = under £30, ££ = £30-£50, £££ = over £50.  

Ceviche

Ceviche, located on Frith Street, brings the vibrant flavours and spirited atmosphere of Peru to the heart of Soho. Opened in 2012, this Peruvian restaurant and pisco bar draws its inspiration from the bohemian Barranco neighbourhood of Lima, known as a melting pot for artists and creatives. The restaurant aims to capture this eclectic “Chicha” spirit.  

The menu, naturally, features its namesake dish – citrus-cured fish – and offers a range of traditional Peruvian dishes. The ambiance is described as laid-back and casual, suitable for all-day dining.  

For families, Ceviche could offer an exciting culinary adventure, introducing children to new flavours. The sharing nature of some Peruvian dishes might also be appealing. Given its “casual all-day dining” approach, an earlier mealtime might be comfortable for families. It’s advisable to check for specific child-friendly options on the menu.

• Address: 17 Frith Street, Soho, London, W1D 4RG.
• Opening Hours:
  Tuesday & Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM;
  Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM;
  Friday: 12:00 AM – 12:00 AM (likely means continuous from Thursday PM into Friday AM, or specific late Friday hours – clarification needed from venue); Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM;
  Monday & Sunday: Closed. (These hours seem somewhat unusual, especially the Friday listing; direct confirmation is advised).
• Cuisine: Peruvian, specializing in ceviche.
• Price Category: ££.
• Booking: Reservation policies are not detailed in the snippets, but booking is generally advisable for Soho restaurants.
• Family Suitability: The casual atmosphere and opportunity to try new foods could appeal to adventurous families. Check for children’s menu or portion options.
• Nearest Tube: Leicester Square, Tottenham Court Road.

Hoppers

Hoppers Soho, located on Frith Street, offers an inviting and down-to-earth dining experience inspired by the village toddy shops and streetside shacks of Sri Lanka and South India.  

The menu features signature Sri Lankan dishes such as hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk), dosas (crispy crepes), kothu (chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables and/or meat), and roasts. These are complemented by a tropical drinks list with Genever and Arrack at its heart. Diners typically mix and match small, mouth-watering curries and sides with their hoppers or dosas.  

The vibrant and unique flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine can be an exciting experience for families. The concept of sharing various small dishes is often well-suited to family dining, allowing everyone to sample different items. Hoppers Soho takes reservations for parties of 2-4 guests and operates a virtual queue system for walk-ins.  

• Address: 49 Frith Street, Soho, London, W1D 4SG.
• Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 12 PM – 3 PM & 5:30 PM – 10 PM; Friday – Saturday: 12 PM – 10:45 PM; Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM. Bank Holiday Mondays usually 12 PM – 9:30 PM.
• Cuisine: Sri Lankan and South Indian inspired (hoppers, dosas, kothu, curries).
• Price Category: ££.
• Booking: Reservations accepted for 2-4 guests; virtual queue for walk-ins. For booking inquiries: reservations.soho@hopperslondon.com.
• Family Suitability: The interactive nature of eating hoppers and sharing dishes can be fun for families. Flavours can be bold, so it may suit more adventurous palates.
• Nearest Tube: Tottenham Court Road, Leicester Square.

Burger and Lobster Soho

Burger and Lobster Soho, located on Dean Street, has built its reputation on perfecting two popular classics: burgers and lobsters. Established in 2011, this eatery offers an uncomplicated menu that focuses on quality ingredients.  

Their burgers are made with prime Nebraskan beef, and the lobsters are sourced fresh, served either whole (steamed or char-grilled) or in their popular lobster rolls with wasabi mayo. For those who can’t decide, B&L combos offer the best of both worlds. The restaurant also serves desserts and a range of drinks, including cocktails and homemade lemonade. The interior features red booth seating, and outdoor dining is also available.  

This restaurant is generally a very family-friendly option. The menu, while focused, offers items that widely appeal to both adults and children (burgers are a kid-pleaser, and lobster can be a treat). The straightforward approach to dining and friendly service make it a comfortable choice. “Market Tuesdays” offer lobster at special prices, which could be a good value option. Private dining is also available for larger groups.  

• Address: 36-38 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 4PS.
• Opening Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 12 pm – 9:30 pm; Thursday – Saturday: 12 pm – 10:30 pm; Sunday: 12 pm – 9:30 pm.
• Cuisine: Burgers and Lobster.
• Price Category: ££.
• Booking: Reservations can be made online, or walk-ins are accepted.
• Family Suitability: Generally very suitable for families due to the appealing menu items.
• Nearest Tube: Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines), Tottenham Court Road.  

Joy King Lau

Joy King Lau, situated on Leicester Street just off Lisle Street in Chinatown, is a landmark Cantonese restaurant that has been serving authentic Dim Sum and Cantonese cuisine for over 45 years (one source says over 30 years, another 45). It is renowned for being one of the first establishments to introduce Dim Sum to London in the 1970s (one source says 1990s).  

The menu features a diverse selection of classic and cherished Cantonese dishes. At lunchtime, there is an enormous choice of delicious dim sum, often served traditionally from trolleys. Other popular dishes include shredded crispy Roast Duck, Sweet and Sour Pork, and Steamed Whole Sea Bass. A signature dish recommended for seafood lovers is Crab with Ginger and Spring Onions. They also offer a variety of clay pot dishes, fresh handmade Cheung fun rolls, and Spring rolls.  

Dim Sum is often a fantastic option for family dining as it involves many small, shareable dishes, allowing everyone to try a variety of items. The bustling atmosphere of a popular Dim Sum restaurant can also be quite engaging for children. Joy King Lau’s long-standing reputation suggests a reliable choice for authentic Cantonese food.

• Address: 3 Leicester Street, London, WC2H 7BL.
• Opening Hours: Not specified in the snippets. Typical Chinese restaurant hours would apply, usually open for lunch and dinner daily.
• Cuisine: Cantonese, specializing in Dim Sum.
• Price Category: £ (Indicating under £30, making it a good value option).
• Booking: Reservations can be made online via their website.
• Family Suitability: Excellent for families, especially for a Dim Sum lunch. The variety and shareable nature of Dim Sum are ideal for children.
• Nearest Tube: Leicester Square.

Restaurant Yoshino

Restaurant Yoshino, located on Piccadilly, serves traditional Japanese favourites such as sushi, sashimi, and tempura. The restaurant offers an extensive menu that includes set three-course meals as well as à la carte options. A particular highlight mentioned are the mouthwatering Japanese barbecue dishes, such as Wagyu beef or ox tongue.  

The restaurant is situated near Piccadilly Circus and Green Park underground stations, at 4-5 Duke of York Street.  

Japanese cuisine, with its delicate flavours and varied textures, can be an enjoyable experience for families. Sushi is often popular with children, and dishes like tempura (lightly battered and fried seafood and vegetables) can also be appealing. The option of set meals might simplify ordering for families.

• Address: 4-5 Duke of York Street, St. James’s, London, SW1Y 6LA.
• Opening Hours: Not specified in the snippets.
• Cuisine: Japanese (sushi, sashimi, tempura, Japanese barbecue).
• Price Category: ££.
• Booking: Reservations can be made online; the system shows options for party size and time.
• Family Suitability: Could be suitable for families who enjoy Japanese cuisine. Check for child-friendly options or willingness to adapt dishes.
• Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus, Green Park.  

Yauatcha Soho

Yauatcha Soho, located on Broadwick Street, is a highly regarded, Michelin-starred Cantonese dim sum teahouse that offers an all-day dining experience. It uniquely fuses dim sum, mixology, tea, and European patisserie to create a modern and social atmosphere, reflecting the spirit of a contemporary “chatter house”.  

The menu is dim sum dominant, featuring a wide selection of steamed, baked, and fried varieties, such as Scallop shui mai, Prawn and beancurd cheung fun, and Venison puffs. They also offer larger dishes of duck, fish, and noodles, alongside an impressive list of over 24 types of tea and exquisite handcrafted desserts and macarons. Special menus like the “Infinite Yum Cha Brunch” (unlimited dim sum and bao on Sundays, with children under 12 dining at 50% discount) and the “£29 Yauatcha Delights” set menu offer good value.  

Yauatcha Soho can be a sophisticated yet enjoyable experience for families, especially with the “Infinite Yum Cha Brunch” offer for children. The variety of small, flavourful dim sum dishes often appeals to younger diners, and the beautiful patisserie is a guaranteed treat. The modern and stylish ambiance, designed by Christian Liaigre with a full view of the kitchen, adds to the experience. Booking ahead is strongly recommended.  

• Address: 15-17 Broadwick Street, Soho, London, W1F 0DL .
• Opening Hours: Sunday – Wednesday: 11 am – 9:45 pm (last reservation); Thursday – Saturday: 11 am – 10:45 pm (last reservation).
• Cuisine: Cantonese Dim Sum, Teahouse, European Patisserie.
• Price Category: ££. Specific set menus like “£29 Yauatcha Delights” and “Infinite Yum Cha Brunch” at £45 per person offer different price points.
• Booking: Reservations are essential and can be made online.
• Family Suitability: The “Infinite Yum Cha Brunch” with discounts for children under 12 makes it family-friendly on Sundays. The variety of dim sum and desserts is appealing.
• Nearest Tube: Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus.

J Sheekey

J Sheekey, located in St Martin’s Court in the heart of theatre-land, is one of London’s best and most charming fish and seafood restaurants, with a history stretching back to 1896. It is renowned for providing the finest quality seafood and shellfish.  

The restaurant’s interior features a central crustacean bar and walls adorned with framed photographs of famous faces, contributing to its timeless charm and vibrant setting. The iconic ruby red frontage is a welcoming sight. The menu offers classic seafood dishes, including items like shellfish platters and Cornish fish stew. A seasonal Set Menu is available, ideal for a relaxed lunch or special occasion, including pre-theatre meals.  

While J Sheekey offers a more upscale dining experience, it could be a special treat for families who enjoy seafood. The pre-theatre set menu might be a good option for families attending a nearby show. The dress code is smart. It’s advisable to check if they have specific options suitable for younger children.  

• Address: 28-32 St Martin’s Court, London, WC2N 4AL.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm (last seating 10:45 pm); Sunday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm (last seating 9:45 pm).
• Cuisine: Fish and Seafood.
• Price Category: ££ (Likely at the higher end of this or £££ for à la carte).
• Booking: Reservations are recommended and can be made online or by phone (+44 (0)20 7240 2565).
• Family Suitability: More suited for special occasions with older children who appreciate seafood. Check for children’s options. Smart dress code.
• Nearest Tube: Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines).  

Kricket Soho

Kricket Soho, located on Denman Street near Piccadilly Circus, is a busy two-floor restaurant serving imaginative, modern Indian sharing plates. It aims to combine the energy of the kitchen with the craft of delicious and memorable food, using British ingredients to create Indian-inspired dishes.  

The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, including pre-theatre dining. The concept of sharing plates can be very conducive to family dining, allowing everyone to sample a variety of flavours. The modern take on Indian cuisine might also appeal to adventurous eaters.  

Kricket takes online reservations for up to 14 guests and also keeps space for walk-ins, operating a virtual queue system if full. Their bar, SOMA, is located next door.  

• Address: 12 Denman Street, Soho, London, W1D 7HJ.
• Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: 12 pm – 10:30 pm; Sunday: 12 pm – 9 pm.
• Cuisine: Modern Indian sharing plates.
• Price Category: ££.
• Booking: Online reservations accepted; walk-ins welcome (virtual queue if full). Contact: reservations@kricket.co.uk or 020 3019 8120.
• Family Suitability: The sharing plate concept can be good for families. The modern Indian flavours might be best for families with more adventurous palates.
• Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus.

Busaba Eathai (Wardour Street)

Busaba Eathai on Wardour Street is the original restaurant in this popular Thai chain, founded by Alan Yau in 1999. It aims to provide a “Sookjai ‘happy heart'” experience, offering delicious Bangkok-style food in a setting designed to be an escape from the city’s chaos.  

The menu features a flavoursome selection of freshly prepared Thai salads, Pad Thais, curries, and more, with many dishes designed for sharing, as is traditional in Thailand. A significant portion of the menu is plant-based. The Classic Pad Thai is noted as a chef’s personal favourite and highly recommended, and Thai Calamari is also a popular choice. They offer a £13.50 lunch deal on weekdays and a pre-theatre menu (2 courses for £17, Mon-Thu, 4-7 PM).  

Busaba Eathai can be a good option for families, with familiar dishes like Pad Thai often appealing to children. The casual atmosphere and various offers (like student discounts, though likely not applicable to tourist families) suggest a welcoming environment. The sharing style of Thai food can also be enjoyable for family meals.

• Address: 106–110 Wardour Street, Soho, London, W1F 0TR.
• Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday: 12:00 pm–10:00 pm; Friday–Saturday: 12:00 pm–11:00 pm; Sunday: 12:00 pm–9:00 pm.
• Cuisine: Modern Bangkok Thai.
• Price Category: ££. Lunch and pre-theatre deals offer value.
• Booking: Reservations can be made online via their website.
• Family Suitability: Generally suitable for families, especially with the popular Pad Thai. The casual setting is a plus.
• Nearest Tube: Oxford Street, Tottenham Court Road, Piccadilly Circus.  

Barrafina (Dean Street)

Barrafina on Dean Street is a stylish Spanish tapas restaurant offering high-quality ingredients and an authentic counter dining experience. It’s an extremely popular spot, so be prepared for the possibility of queuing.  

The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis for its counter seats, where diners can watch the chefs at work. There’s a standing bar for enjoying drinks and “para picar” (snacks) while waiting, or a virtual queue can be joined online. The Dean Street location also features a covered, heated terrace at the front. The menu includes a variety of classic and contemporary tapas, with daily specials often available. Examples from their menu include Pan con Tomate (£8.50), Ham Croquetas (£8.50 for 2), Gambas Rojas (£24.50), and Pluma Ibérica (£28.50).  

The counter dining setup and the often-lively atmosphere might be more suited to adults or families with older children who are comfortable with this style of dining. The tapas concept, however, allows for sharing and trying many different small dishes, which can be fun for adventurous families.

• Address: 26-27 Dean Street, Soho, London, W1D 3LL.
• Opening Hours: Sunday – Monday: 12 PM – 3 PM and 5 PM – 10 PM; Tuesday – Saturday: 12 PM – 3 PM and 5 PM – 11 PM.
• Cuisine: Spanish Tapas.
• Price Category: ££. Individual tapas prices range from around £5 to £28.50+.
• Booking: Barrafina Dean Street is walk-in only (no reservations), though a virtual queue system is used. Other Barrafina locations are bookable.
• Family Suitability: The counter dining and busy atmosphere might be better for families with older children. The tapas style encourages sharing.
• Nearest Tube: Tottenham Court Road, Leicester Square, Oxford Circus.