No two nights seem ever the same in Soho thanks to its inherent buzz, unique draw and eclectic crowd. From its status as the gay capital of London, to its heralded restaurants, everything from Marlboro cigarettes to the infamous Frith Street tattoo studio have been born here. And what's even better? It's one of the best places in London for a tipple. Tuck into some of our favourite Soho bars, be it speakeasy lairs or cocktail favourites.
Last updated on 23rd November 2023
If you're looking for the best secret bars in Soho, Nightjar is bound to top the list. Carrying on the legacy of its famous, award-winning sister in Shoreditch, this swish spot is fronting 1920 speakeasy vibes, quirky cocktails and a lineup of live jazz.
Thirst Bar has a bit of everything, which is why it is a very popular Soho bar. Mid-week head to Thirst for a buzzy and lively atmosphere with beer on tap (for that after work pint) as well as affordable cocktails for the ladies. There is also a very good happy hour making Thirst a very drinkonomical Soho bar.
Boasting kitsch flair, Simmons is easily one of the quirkiest bars in Soho and on Greek Street. Step inside to find a shabby-chic space that's decked out with an assortment of offbeat ornamentation. Naturally, the cocktails here are served in all sorts of vessels too - think jars and teapots.
Soho Residence is the elegant Wardour Street spot designed for drinking, dining and dancing in the heart of the West End. Offering botanical cocktails, gorgeous interiors and handmade pizzas, it's the ultimate weekend hangout.
Mele E Pere is an intimate basement hideaway and Italian restaurant, serving up all sorts of drinks from behind their gorgeous copper bar. They offer an extensive list of vermouth cocktails, as well as a huge array of spirits, beers and wines.
This hidden gem, Soho's swankiest secret, is a late night lounge with the chilled out sophistication of a gentleman's club. With Parisian chic interior, including plush leather armchairs and polished wooden surfaces, this basement bar will have you relaxed and merry in minutes. Try a tasty tipple or some delicious dishes with top chefs and expert mixologists behind the wheel.
A synthesis of lively cocktail bar and popular dancing destination, Barrio is an exotic gem on Soho's Poland Street. Step through to find a venue kitted out with flamboyant interiors, as friendly bar tenders create exquisite tequila and rum cocktails and a lively crowd bust out their shapes to live bands and DJs.
Get ready for a fabulous night out in Soho over at Rupert Street. This buzzing and stylish bar is loved by all, including the LGBTQ+ community, for its fun-loving vibes, cracking cocktail list and happy hour offers.
Boasting dimly lit, slick surrounds and a delicious variety of small plates, Frith Street's The Black Book is a top Soho spot. Once a sultry members' club, this venue lives up to its namesake with a rare wine selection (which used to be guarded among the West End crowd).
Located on Wardour Street, Duke of Wellington is one of the best LGBTQ+ pubs around. Fronting drinks such as beer, cider and other classic sips, the venue also provides plenty of entertainment through live DJs and drag bingo nights.
The Rum Kitchen is somewhat of an institution in Soho, offering an unbeatable vibe that unlike anywhere else around it. Head to the Carnaby Street haunt and you'll be greeted by a banging soundtrack, flowing rum cocktails and delicious Caribbean eats.
Head to the Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel and, not only will you be treated to a selection of the quirkiest cocktails in the city, but also get to hangout in either their creative hangout Wild Heart, or enjoy their Roof Terrace for a more alfresco atmosphere.
Soho is a hub of activity and Opium adds to this mix with its own twist and mystery. This secret bar is a chic getaway in the centre of Chinatown. Enjoy the eccentric, unique cocktails and taste the delicious dim sum at this heralded Oriental inspired haunt. The late night opening hours keep the party going and make for a big night out.
For Soho members' bars, Martinez is a top choice. Not only are the interiors styled like a New York loft, but the cool space is whipping up small plates designed by a Michelin star chef and the master mixologists have everything from the venue's namesake cocktails to classics up their sleeve.
Looking for the best bars in Soho? The Little Scarlet Door isn't a fair shout just because of its famous sister venues, but also due to its New York loft-style interiors and Andy Warhol-inspired vault. Better yet, there's a lineup of unique cocktails and DJs keeping you dancing.
Expect the same level of incredible cocktails and innovative food that the team give to the party vibe here, because anything goes at The Cocktail Club Oxford Circus.
Take a step back into the glamorous world of the Prohibition-era bourgeoisie right at one of the most elite, members-only bars in Soho. £100 is all that separates you and a select few from sinking into velveteen cushions and sipping on some of the finest, China-clad cocktails in town.
The upstairs bar at Archer Street Cocktail Lounge is highly reminiscent of a hotel lounge bar, adorned with a stylish drinks bar decorated with luxe spirit brands and cream sofas and glass tables and low lit side lamps reflecting around the space. Head down some unmarked stairs and you are presented with a whole other experience. But we'll let you discover that....
Hidden underground in Soho is Disrepute, the cocktail bar with a naughty past and enviable present. Come here for delicious cocktails, an amazing (no really, amazing) interior, and amazing company with people who love all things luxurious.
Swift is the swish Soho cocktail bar offering up a whisky library and sophisticated list of boozy concoctions in their Art Deco space. Whether you're heading out for date night or fancy drinks after your West End show, these guys have your back.
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Get your night out in Soho kicked off at Be At One and who knows - you might end up not leaving! The happy hours are a wonderful shock for those used to London bar prices; with cocktails that don't forfeit their taste despite the great offers. Chill out on the cool sofas with friends in this buzzing hub.
Located on Greek Street, Beasy Bar is a crackin' DJ for a boatload of reasons. Not only does this spot bring disco vibes, NY-inspired food and live DJ sets, but there are also cocktails or private bookings throughout the week.
Flare is the Soho bar and club that's got you covered for affordable drinks and dancing galore. Think bottomless brunches all week, alongside the chance to get to the club lounge on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with DJs playing 'til 1am.
Sleek, elegant furnishings and quirky cocktails are wonderfully married at Blind Spot, a dimly-lit, sultry Soho-based bar that continues to draw crowds from all over the London. The line-up of resident DJs play all your favourite hip-hop, rnb and dance tracks, whilst the venue's talented bartenders let their creative side shine, mixing together a range of spices, fruits and potent spirits. Grab a cocktail, sit back and lose yourself in the intoxicating ambience of this sleek Central London bar.
Located on nearby Regent's Street, Aqua Kyoto is one of Soho's most exciting new venues. Head to the rooftop gem and you'll find a menu of sublime Japanese cuisine, including robata grilled goods, tempura and omakase sushi and sashimi, alongside carefully crafted cocktails.
If you're on the hunt for bars in Soho, The Roxy is a fun party spot that will keep the good time's coming 'til late. From club nights six days of the week to the fantastic happy hour and cool interiors, this one will have you coming back for more.
Scarlett Green might best known for its food, offering up a fantastic range of Australian food from brunch through to dinner, but they are also masters at delivering delicious cocktails, craft beer, the largest Aussie wine list in London and live DJ sets.
Looking for a craft beer spot in the heart of Soho? There's one name that always stahnds out. Head on over to BrewDog and explore over 20 taps of craft beer, a menu of hearty burgers, deals in chicken wings, vegan plates and more.
For those after a swanky bar in Soho, look no further than Lucy Wong. Not only does this gorgeous cocktail bar boast speakeasy vibes and contemporary Chinese-style furnishings, but there's also a crackin' cocktail list curated by award-winning mixologist, DreĢ Masso.
Nestled in the heart of Chinatown is Zoku, a unique Speakeasy based on an intimate and fun recording studio. Expect underground antics with a live DJ and a unique sound, all while sipping on sake-laced cocktails.
If you're looking for a classy bar to impress your friends in Soho or merely going for a solo sip, then check out SOMA. From the people behind the Indian small-plate eatery Kricket, expect this cocktail menu to be full of high-quality, inventive drinks like a chaat margarita or a banana daiquiri.
This magnificent Soho bar is a fun-time, fabulous cocktail bar and night club great for a night out. The trendy vibe and great drinks selection makes Freedom a fun and non-pretentious choice for any Soho frequenter. Freedom plays till late most nights of the week and has party DJs playing all those crowd favourites.
For a night out in Soho, Arcade Food Hall is promising a cracking evening filled with a music programme and various food stalls. While chowing down on tandoori sliders and fried chicken, you can get your hands on a couple of cocktails.
