Asian Restaurants in Soho: Soho, London, is a culinary treasure trove, renowned for its eclectic mix of restaurants offering global flavours. Among its vibrant streets, Asian cuisine holds a special place, offering a wide range of delicacies from bold Thai curries to delicate Japanese udon. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic street food or a fine dining experience, Soho’s Asian restaurants promise a journey through the diverse tastes of the continent. In this guide, we explore ten must-visit Asian restaurants in Soho, highlighting their specialities, Ambience, and standout dishes to help you plan your next gastronomic adventure.
1. Kiln
Source: Official Website
Kiln is a Michelin-starred treasure in Soho, offering a fiery, authentic taste of Northern Thailand. With its vibrant and intimate setting, Kiln creates an immersive dining experience centred around its open kitchen, where the fiery heat of the charcoal grill takes centre stage. The restaurant’s design is minimalist yet warm, with high stools and communal tables that encourage a lively, sociable atmosphere.
Kiln is celebrated for its dedication to sourcing local ingredients and integrating bold Thai flavours. Every dish reflects an emphasis on spice and depth, drawing from the unique cuisine of regions like Isan and Burma. The clay pot glass noodles with Tamworth pork and crab are a revelation, combining smoky flavours with tender textures. Another highlight is the spicy jungle curry, packed with aromatic herbs and an unapologetic kick. For meat lovers, the aged lamb skewers grilled over charcoal deliver a robust, smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with Kiln’s selection of natural wines.
Dining at Kiln is not just a meal but a culinary journey through Thailand’s backroads, reimagined in the heart of Soho. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or new to Thai cuisine, this classic restaurant in London guarantees an unforgettable experience.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Thai |
Speciality Dishes | Clay pot glass noodles, jungle curry |
Ambience | Rustic, open kitchen, lively |
Must-try Dish | Tamworth pork and crab clay pot noodles |
2. BAO
Source: Official Website
BAO is a modern Taiwanese marvel that has taken London by storm. Located in the bustling heart of Soho, this restaurant is famed for its signature steamed buns and innovative interpretations of Taiwanese street food classics. The atmosphere at BAO is minimalist and chic, featuring sleek wooden interiors and a casual yet buzzing vibe. The open kitchen adds a dynamic touch, allowing diners to watch their baos being freshly prepared.
At BAO, simplicity meets perfection. Their pork belly bao is a crowd favourite, with succulent meat complemented by crushed peanuts and tangy pickled lettuce. The fried chicken bao, with its crispy coating and juicy centre, is another standout. For those seeking variety, small plates, such as Taiwanese fried chicken and pickled daikon, offer a delightful way to explore different flavours. To round off your meal, the Horlicks ice cream bun is a must-try dessert, combining creamy nostalgia with a modern twist.
BAO’s seamless blend of comfort food and culinary artistry makes it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts exploring Soho. Be prepared to queue, as this hotspot rarely sees a quiet moment – but rest assured, the experience is well worth the wait.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Taiwanese |
Speciality Dishes | Pork belly bao, fried chicken bao |
Ambience | Minimalist, modern, casual |
Must-try Dish | Pork belly bao |
3. Koya
Source: Official Website
Koya is a haven for lovers of authentic Japanese cuisine, offering a menu anchored in traditional udon noodles and an array of innovative daily specials. Nestled in the heart of Soho, Koya’s cosy and understated interiors create a serene and inviting space. The wooden furniture and soft lighting evoke a sense of Japanese simplicity, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal.
The highlight of Koya’s menu is its handmade udon noodles, crafted fresh daily to ensure the perfect texture and chewiness. The tempura prawn udon, served in a rich dashi broth, is a fan favourite that showcases the restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity. The buta miso, a hearty pork miso soup, delivers comfort in every spoonful. Koya’s blackboard specials often push culinary boundaries, blending traditional flavours with unexpected twists – a testament to the creativity of its chefs. It is one of the best places to eat in London if you are craving some Asian food.
Whether you’re seeking a comforting bowl of noodles or an exploration of Japanese culinary artistry, Koya delivers an experience that is both authentic and innovative. Its dedication to quality and tradition makes it a standout choice among Soho’s bustling dining scene.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Japanese |
Speciality Dishes | Handmade udon, tempura prawn udon |
Ambience | Cosy, traditional |
Must-try Dish | Buta miso |
4. Kricket Soho
Source: Official Website
Kricket Soho seamlessly blends Indian flavours with a modern British twist, delivering a vibrant and eclectic dining experience. The restaurant is nestled in a chic, cosy corner of Soho and features an industrial-style interior with warm lighting and communal seating. The open kitchen adds an element of theatre, allowing diners to witness the culinary magic unfold.
Kricket is known for its innovative take on Indian small plates, designed for sharing and crafted with seasonal British ingredients. Signature dishes include the Samphire Pakoras, a delightful crispy treat paired with tamarind and chilli garlic, and the Keralan Fried Chicken, which is both spicy and succulent. The venison keema with pickled onions and sourdough is another must-try dish, offering a bold and hearty flavour profile.
For dessert, the Gulab Jamun with a spiced milk sorbet provides a perfect sweet ending. Pair your meal with one of their creative cocktails, like the Old Narangi, a citrusy twist on a classic old-fashioned. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Indian cuisine or a curious foodie, Kricket’s bold flavours and inventive dishes will leave you wanting more.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Modern Indian |
Speciality Dishes | Samphire pakoras, Keralan fried chicken |
Ambience | Chic, industrial, vibrant |
Must-try Dish | Venison keema |
Also Read:
5. Singapulah
Source: Pexels
Located in one of the richest neighbourhoods in London, Singapulah offers a taste of Singaporean street food in the heart of Soho. With its cheerful and inviting setting, the restaurant captures the bustling atmosphere of Singapore’s hawker centres. The interior is simple yet vibrant, with colourful decor and friendly staff that make you feel at home.
The menu at Singapulah is a celebration of Singapore’s multicultural culinary heritage. Highlights include the Hainanese Chicken Rice, a dish that epitomises simplicity and flavour with its tender chicken, fragrant rice, and aromatic chilli and ginger sauces. The Laksa, a spicy noodle soup infused with coconut milk and topped with prawns or chicken, is another crowd favourite. For something hearty, try the Beef Rendang, a slow-cooked, richly spiced dish that melts in your mouth.
Singapulah’s authentic flavours and casual dining experience make it a great spot for a quick meal or a leisurely feast. Their fresh ingredients and attention to detail set them apart in Soho’s competitive food scene.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Singaporean |
Speciality Dishes | Hainanese Chicken Rice, Laksa |
Ambience | Casual, vibrant |
Must-try Dish | Beef rendang |
6. Inamo
Source: Pexels
Inamo stands out not only for its Pan-Asian menu but also for its futuristic dining concept. This Soho hotspot offers interactive tables where guests can order food, play games, and even watch their dishes being prepared via a “Chef Cam.” The ambience is modern and lively, making it a fantastic destination for casual dinners, group outings, or even date nights.
The menu at this Asian restaurant in Soho is a fusion of flavours from Japan, China, Thailand, and beyond. Their sushi rolls, like the Dragon Roll filled with shrimp tempura and avocado, are a must-try. For mains, the black cod miso—a delicate fish glazed with a sweet and savoury miso—is a favourite among regulars. The crispy duck with pancakes brings a traditional dish to life with perfectly seasoned meat and fresh garnishes.
The restaurant also offers a variety of sharing platters, perfect for sampling multiple dishes in one visit. Inamo’s blend of cutting-edge technology and expertly crafted food makes it a unique and memorable experience in Soho’s dining scene.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Pan-Asian |
Speciality Dishes | Sushi, black cod miso, crispy duck |
Ambience | Interactive, modern, lively |
Must-try Dish | Dragon roll |
7. Orient London
Source: Official Website
Orient London brings a touch of luxury to traditional Chinese dining. This sophisticated restaurant features elegant decor with rich tones and intricate details that evoke the charm of old Shanghai. With an extensive menu that spans Cantonese, Sichuan, and dim sum specialities, Orient London caters to a wide range of palates.
The dim sum is a highlight here, with expertly crafted dumplings that are almost too beautiful to eat. favourites include the prawn har gow and the Shanghai soup dumplings, which burst with savoury broth. This place offers the best Asian food in Soho, London. For mains, the Peking duck served with delicate pancakes and rich hoisin sauce is a crowd-pleaser. The Mapo Tofu, a spicy Sichuan classic, also deserves a mention for its bold flavours and silky texture.
Perfect for both special occasions and casual outings, Orient London delivers an authentic and refined Chinese dining experience that stands out in Soho.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Chinese |
Speciality Dishes | Dim sum, Peking duck, Mapo tofu |
Ambience | Sophisticated, elegant |
Must-try Dish | Shanghai soup dumplings |
8. Chop Chop at the Hippodrome
Source: Pexels
Chop Chop at the Hippodrome Casino offers a unique fusion of Asian street food with a glamorous twist. For the best Asian food in Soho head to this restaurant. Set in the heart of the iconic Hippodrome, this venue combines the thrill of entertainment with delectable dining. The atmosphere is lively, with chic decor and a bustling casino backdrop.
The menu is an exciting mix of East Asian street food staples, including pork belly bao buns, prawn dumplings, and crispy salt-and-pepper squid. Their beef ho fun noodles, stir-fried with tender strips of beef and vegetables, are a must-try for noodle lovers. For something lighter, the Asian-style salads with sesame dressing provide a refreshing burst of flavour.
Whether you’re taking a break from the casino or simply looking for a new dining experience, Chop Chop’s bold flavours and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout choice.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Asian street food |
Speciality Dishes | Bao buns, beef ho fun noodles |
Ambience | Lively, casino setting |
Must-try Dish | Salt and pepper squid |
9. Hoppers Soho
Source: Official Website
Hoppers Soho introduces the bold and aromatic flavours of Sri Lanka and South India to London. This vibrant and bustling Asian restaurant in Soho, London is named after the iconic “hopper,” a bowl-shaped pancake made with fermented rice and coconut milk. The interiors are inspired by Sri Lankan roadside cafes, with bright colours, vintage posters, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The menu offers a range of curries, rice dishes, and hoppers. The lamb kothu roti, a mix of chopped roti bread, spices, and tender lamb, is a flavour-packed favourite. Their signature egg hopper, served with sambols and a choice of curry, is a must-try for first-time visitors. Don’t miss the black pork curry, known for its deep, smoky flavour and tender meat.
Hoppers is perfect for those looking to explore vibrant and hearty South Asian cuisine in a laid-back setting.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Sri Lankan, South Indian |
Speciality Dishes | Hoppers, lamb kothu roti, black pork curry |
Ambience | Vibrant, casual |
Must-try Dish | Egg hopper |
10. Rasa Sayang
Source: Official Website
Rasa Sayang brings the heart of Malaysian and Singaporean cuisine to Soho. It is one of the best Asian restaurants in Soho, London. This cosy and colourful restaurant features a homely atmosphere with touches of Southeast Asian decor. Known for its authentic flavours, Rasa Sayang offers a menu that transports diners straight to the bustling hawker stalls of Malaysia.
The Hainanese Chicken Rice is a standout, with tender chicken, fragrant rice, and tangy sauces. Laksa lovers will appreciate the rich and spicy broth packed with noodles, prawns, and tofu. The char kway teow, a stir-fried noodle dish with prawns, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts, is another must-try.
Rasa Sayang’s friendly service and hearty portions make it a favourite for both comfort food seekers and adventurous eaters.
Detail | Description |
Cuisine | Malaysian, Singaporean |
Speciality Dishes | Hainanese chicken rice, char kway |
Ambience | Cosy, homely |
Must-try Dish | Laksa |
Also Read:
- Part-Time Jobs in London for Students
- London City Guide
This was all about Asian Restaurants in Soho. Soho’s Asian dining scene is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the continent, offering a dynamic mix of traditional recipes and modern twists. Each of these ten restaurants showcases the depth and diversity of Asian flavours, catering to all kinds of palates and dining preferences. Whether it’s the fiery curries of Kiln, the iconic Taiwanese buns at BAO, or the comforting bowls of udon at Koya, Soho guarantees an unforgettable dining experience.
These culinary gems are more than just places to eat; they’re gateways to the vibrant cultures and flavours of Asia, right in the heart of London. So, bring your appetite and start exploring! For booking the best student accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
FAQs
These restaurants represent a wide variety of Asian cuisines, including Thai, Taiwanese, Japanese, Indian, Singaporean, Malaysian, Sri Lankan, and Pan-Asian fusion.
Many of these restaurants, such as BAO, Koya, and Hoppers, offer vegetarian-friendly options. Some, like Inamo, also have vegan dishes on their menus. It’s recommended to check specific menus for dietary accommodations.
Some, like Kiln and Kricket, highly recommend making reservations, especially during peak hours. Others, such as BAO, operate on a walk-in basis but may have long queues.
The price range varies, with casual spots like Rasa Sayang and Singapulah offering meals for GBP 10-GBP 20 per person, while more upscale options like Kiln and Orient London may cost GBP 30-GBP 50 per person.
Most of these restaurants, like Rasa Sayang and Koya, are family-friendly, though some venues with a lively or intimate ambience, such as Inamo or Kiln, may cater more to adults.
Yes, many of these restaurants are allergy-aware and can modify dishes to suit dietary needs. Inform the staff about any allergies when ordering.
Signature dishes include Kiln’s Tamworth pork and crab clay pot noodles, BAO’s pork belly bao, Koya’s tempura prawn udon, and Hoppers’ egg hopper with sambols.
Several restaurants, like BAO, Inamo, and Rasa Sayang, provide takeaway or delivery services through platforms like Deliveroo or Uber Eats.
Ambiences range from the rustic, open-kitchen vibe at Kiln to the high-tech interactive tables at Inamo, offering diverse dining atmospheres to suit different preferences.
Accessibility varies by location. While modern spots like Inamo may have good facilities, others in older buildings may have limitations. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm specific accessibility features.
Follow Us on Social Media