Bar Crispin: A Standout Among Nice Restaurants in West London

July 7, 2025

When it comes to dining in London, the options are endless—but if you’re looking for a restaurant that combines elegant design, top-quality seasonal food, and one of the city’s most respected natural wine lists, Bar Crispin is a name you’ll want to remember. Tucked away on Kingly Street in Soho, Bar Crispin may sit on the edge of the West End, but its charm, attention to detail, and refined simplicity make it one of the standout nice restaurants in West London.

This modern European wine bar and restaurant brings together everything we love about London dining: a relaxed but stylish atmosphere, a curated food and wine offering, and a true passion for sustainability. Whether you’re planning a leisurely lunch, an intimate dinner, or drinks with friends, Bar Crispin ticks every box.

A Wine Bar with Heart (and Palate)

What sets Bar Crispin apart is its focus on natural, low-intervention wines. Curated by Head of Wine Alex Price, the wine list is anything but ordinary. Forget the standard supermarket grapes—instead, you’ll find a mix of unusual varietals and regions from across Europe, all selected for their character, quality, and minimal environmental impact.

Staff are friendly and well-informed, ready to guide you towards the perfect pairing or introduce you to something outside your comfort zone. It’s a relaxed and educational experience—ideal for both aficionados and the wine-curious alike.

Food That Celebrates the Seasons

Bar Crispin’s menu is led by Head Chef Fabien Spagnolo, whose background includes stints at top London kitchens such as Frenchie and Pollen Street Social. His cooking style is simple, seasonal, and elegant, with every dish thoughtfully composed and full of flavour.

Rather than heavy mains and overcomplicated starters, the menu is built around small plates and sharing dishes, perfect for relaxed grazing or building your multi-course feast.

Highlights from the current menu include:

  • Fried prawn sando with chilli, pickled cucumber, and crab mayo – a modern classic bursting with bold flavours.
  • Aged beef tartare on crumpet – indulgent and perfectly seasoned.
  • Grilled seabream with ’nduja, yellow peppers, and beurre blanc – a brilliant mix of spice, acidity, and creamy richness.
  • Crispy polenta with aioli and parmesan – simple, satisfying, and ideal with a crisp white.

Vegetarians aren’t forgotten either. Options like burrata with cavolo nero and walnuts and flatbread with cheddar and wild garlic showcase the kitchen’s creativity with seasonal vegetables and British produce.

And for dessert? You’ll want to try the fried choux pastry with burnt honey caramel and milk ice cream—it’s the perfect sweet finish to an already delightful meal.

A Space Designed for Comfort and Style

Bar Crispin’s interior is a masterclass in understated elegance. The space is cosy but refined, natural wood accents, and thoughtful lighting that sets the perfect mood from lunch through to late evening.

There’s also a heated outdoor terrace for those who prefer al fresco dining, and The Green Room—a private cellar dining space that seats up to 14—is available for intimate events, tastings, or celebratory dinners.

Location and Service That Completes the Experience

Situated on Kingly Street, just a short stroll from Carnaby and Regent Street, Bar Crispin is ideally placed whether you’re shopping, sightseeing, or heading to the theatre. Despite its central location, the restaurant maintains a welcoming, neighbourhood feel—making it a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the West End.

Service here is professional, warm, and unpretentious, a perfect match for the restaurant’s elegant but easygoing vibe.

Plan Your Visit

Address: 19 Kingly Street, Soho, London, W1B 5PY

Website: www.crispinlondon.com/bar-crispin

Phone: +44 (0)20 8050 0373

Email: bar@crispinlondon.com

Opening Hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 12:00–15:00 & 17:00–22:00
  • Saturday: 13:00–15:30 & 17:00–22:00
  • Sunday: 13:00–17:00

Final Thoughts

In a city filled with fantastic places to eat, Bar Crispin stands out as one of the nicest restaurants in West London. It’s a place where quality ingredients, exceptional wines, and beautiful surroundings come together to create an experience that feels both special and effortlessly comfortable.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a fan of seasonal small plates, or simply someone looking for a beautiful spot to enjoy lunch or dinner, Bar Crispin is well worth a visit. It’s a stylish, flavour-driven destination that truly captures the spirit of modern London dining.