Soho London: Secret Evening Food Tour

Imagine wandering through London’s bohemian core after dark, sampling unforgettable bites and sipping historic spirits. That’s exactly what the Soho London: Secret Evening Food Tour offers—an opportunity to explore the lively, neon-lit streets of Soho with a knowledgeable guide, tasting some of the city’s best ethnic dishes and learning about its spirited past. We haven’t done this tour ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a rich, flavorful way to spend an evening.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines delicious food with engaging storytelling from local guides. Plus, the variety of stops—ranging from tapas to Singaporean dishes—ensures a diverse taste journey across London’s multicultural scene. On the flip side, a potential downside is the price point; some may feel it’s slightly steep relative to what’s included, especially considering the limited duration. Still, if you’re a fan of authentic bites, lively atmosphere, and learning about the city’s drinking culture, this tour is a solid pick.

This experience best suits adults who enjoy food, drinks, and urban exploration. It’s perfect for those looking to uncover Soho’s hidden gems after hours, or travelers wanting a lively, guided introduction to London’s eclectic cuisine scene. With small groups and a friendly guide, it promises an intimate, engaging atmosphere—ideal for curious foodies and night owls alike.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Guided tour through Soho’s vibrant streets, tasting diverse cuisines.
• Engaging Guides: Knowledgeable, fun guides enhance the experience with stories about London’s drinking and food history.
• Taste Variety: Seven stops featuring tapas, Italian classics, Singaporean dishes, and more.
• All-Inclusive: Food and some drinks are included, making it a convenient, hassle-free evening.
• Adult-Only: Designed for those 18+; a lively, energetic atmosphere.
• Duration & Group Size: About 3 hours, small groups of up to 10 provide a personal touch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Soho Secret Food Tour

Starting Point: Golden Square and First Impressions

The tour begins outside the Frith Street Gallery at Golden Square—an area buzzing with history and character. The guide, easily spotted with an orange umbrella and a big smile, sets the tone for a friendly, relaxed walk through Soho’s streets. Keep in mind some venues enforce dress codes, so avoid flip flops or tracksuits if you want to stay inside the stops.

The Itinerary: A Taste of London’s Multicultural Flavor

First Stop: Catalan Tapas
You’ll kick off with mouthwatering croquetas paired with bitter-sweet Catalan Vermouth in a well-regarded tapas spot. This not only introduces you to Spanish flavors but also sets the tone for the tour’s emphasis on authentic, high-quality bites. A review enthusiastically praises the food, calling it “awesome” and highlighting the chance to go into restaurants and skip long lines.

Second Stop: Italian Truffle Arancini
Next, indulge in a classic Italian dish—luxurious truffle arancini filled with gooey fontina cheese. We loved the way this stop showcases London’s love for comforting, high-end Italian cuisine, often with a twist that elevates familiar dishes.

Third Stop: Gin Tasting and History
One of the tour’s highlights is the exploration of London’s raucous gin history. In a local booze emporium, you’ll sample three historic spirits, gaining insight into how gin became woven into London’s cultural fabric. The reviews echo how engaging this segment is—“learning about London’s gin history with tastings was a highlight,” as one reviewer puts it.

Fourth Stop: Singaporean Cuisine
Next, a spicy, fresh Singaporean dish reveals the city’s multicultural influences. It’s a good reminder of how London’s food scene is a melting pot, with options to satisfy a wide range of palates.

Fifth Stop: Chinatown Bao Buns
Wander into Chinatown for what many consider the best Bao Buns in the city. Skipping the long lines, you get to enjoy these pillowy, flavorful buns—another bonus from the reviews, which mention the stop as a definite highlight.

Final Stop: Soho Bar for a Parting Drink
The tour winds down at a classic Soho bar, where you’re offered a drink to toast your evening. The relaxed atmosphere, paired with friendly conversation, leaves a lasting impression.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides
The reviews repeatedly praise the guide’s local knowledge and friendly approach. One says, “Paul has lots of information,” making the experience both educational and fun. Guides who can weave stories about Soho’s past and present turn a simple food walk into something memorable.

Quality, Authentic Food
Every stop promises authentic, high-quality dishes. The variety—from Spanish tapas to Indonesian flavors—caters to adventurous eaters. Many reviews mention how the food exceeded expectations, with some calling the experience “delicious” and “plentiful.”

Skip-the-Line Access
Because you’re visiting popular spots, skipping lines is a major plus. This means more tasting and less waiting, especially valuable in a city where busy eateries often have long queues.

Inclusion of Drinks
The drinks—Vermouth, gin tastings, and a final drink—complement the food and give a good sense of London’s drinking culture. However, some venues do not accept under 18, so this tour isn’t suitable for minors.

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Price and Value Considerations

At $141.43 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest way to experience Soho’s food scene. Some reviewers feel it’s a bit pricey for what’s included. However, considering the quality of food, the guided experience, and the skipping of lines, many find the price reasonable, especially if you value insider access and curated tastings.

Duration and Group Size

The 3-hour length keeps things lively but not exhausting. Small groups (limited to 10) ensure personalized attention and relaxed conversation. You’ll have enough time to savor each stop without feeling rushed, making this a comfortable way to explore without the overwhelm of large crowds.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable shoes—you’re walking through Soho’s lively streets.
• Dress appropriately, respecting venue dress codes.
• Be aware that some venues do not accept guests under 18; plan accordingly.
• Check the availability and starting times when booking, as they vary.
• Consider the price as an investment in a curated, guided foodie adventure rather than just a meal.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults who enjoy discovering new foods and spirits in a lively, city-centered setting. It appeals to those interested in London’s multicultural cuisine, historic drinks, and authentic neighborhood vibes. If you’re curious about the stories behind the dishes and want a guided, intimate tour, this will fit the bill.

Final Thoughts

The Soho London: Secret Evening Food Tour offers a delightful way to experience this iconic neighborhood after hours. It combines delicious, authentic bites with engaging storytelling, making it a memorable part of any trip to London. While it might be on the pricier side, many find the skip-the-line access, quality food, and expert guides well worth the cost.

If you’re a curious eater, a lover of London’s nightlife, or someone eager to discover the city’s diverse culinary scene, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable evening. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, making it suitable for singles, couples, or small groups of friends eager to sample London’s best bites with a splash of history and fun.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

What’s included in the tour?
Food tastings at each stop, plus some drinks—Vermouth, three gin tastings, and a final drink at a local bar.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, with a flexible starting time depending on availability.

Is it suitable for children or minors?
No, the tour is only for adults 18 and over. Some venues do not accept under 18, so minors will miss certain stops.

Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Where does the tour begin?
At the entrance of Golden Square, outside the Frith Street Gallery, marked by an orange umbrella.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended. Dress appropriately for the venues and weather.

Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
The provided information doesn’t specify dietary accommodations. It’s best to check with the tour provider directly.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I see famous landmarks?
While the focus is on food and drink, the tour weaves through notable Soho streets, giving a lively neighborhood experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

To sum it up, the Soho London: Secret Evening Food Tour is a lively, flavorful way to explore one of London’s most iconic neighborhoods. It offers a curated taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene, complemented by stories that add depth and context. Perfect for those craving an authentic, engaging, and delicious evening with a small group of fellow explorers.

You can check availability for your dates here: