Bar Crispin: A True Standout Among the Best Places to Eat in Carnaby
July 26, 2025
Tucked away on the atmospheric Kingly Street, just steps from the heart of Carnaby, Bar Crispin offers something truly special for food lovers in London. As the area continues to attract a discerning crowd looking for more than just a quick bite, Bar Crispin rises to the occasion with its refined menu, expertly curated natural wine list, and relaxed yet stylish ambience. In a neighbourhood known for its bold fashion and creative energy, this intimate wine bar and restaurant delivers a culinary experience to match, making it a true standout among the best places to eat in Carnaby.
Where Wine and Food Meet in Perfect Harmony
At Bar Crispin, wine isn't just an accompaniment to food – it's part of the story. The venue specialises in low-intervention, organic, and biodynamic wines, with a list curated by Head of Wine, Alex Price. Rather than organising wines by country or grape, Bar Crispin presents them by climate style. This fresh approach allows guests to explore new varietals with confidence, whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply wine-curious.
Small Plates with Big Personality
Bar Crispin’s seasonal small plates menu is designed for sharing, socialising, and savouring. Under the direction of Head Chef Fabien Spagnolo, the kitchen serves up creative, elegant dishes that celebrate the best of British produce with European flair. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a pre-theatre snack, or a more indulgent dinner, the menu is built for flexibility and flavour.
Start with something simple yet satisfying, like Gordal olives or Marcona almonds, perfect for nibbling while you sip your wine. Add a few small plates to your table to share, such as:
- Toklas sourdough with cultured butter: warm, comforting, and beautifully made.
- Fried prawn sando with chilli, pickled cucumber, and crab mayo: crisp, rich, and bursting with bold flavours.
- Crispy polenta with aioli and parmesan: a golden, moreish delight.
If you’re in the mood for meat, the grilled pork collar skewer with kumquat and black garlic is an excellent choice, delivering smoky sweetness and umami depth. The aged beef tartare on crumpet is a playful British twist on a classic, and every bit as indulgent as it sounds.
Seafood lovers will find plenty to enjoy too – the clams and rice with crab sauce and coriander offers a coastal nod with big flavour, while the grilled seabream with ‘nduja, yellow peppers, and beurre blanc is a standout dish showcasing technique and creativity.
Vegetarians are well catered for with the likes of burrata with cavolo nero and walnuts and the flatbread with cheddar and wild garlic – each full of texture and flavour.
End on a Sweet Note
For dessert, there are just two options, but both are memorable. The celery and apple ice cream with coconut mousse offers a light and refreshing finale, while the fried choux pastry with burnt honey caramel and milk ice cream is a comforting indulgence that’s perfect to share, though you might not want to.
A Space That Matches the Menu
Bar Crispin’s interior is as carefully considered as its food and wine. The space is intimate without feeling cramped. It feels equally suited for a casual afternoon or a celebratory evening out.
For those looking to host private events or group dinners, The Green Room – a beautifully designed cellar space for up to 14 guests – offers a unique and atmospheric setting that’s perfect for everything from wine tastings to birthday feasts.
Why Bar Crispin Belongs at the Top of Your Carnaby List
In an area overflowing with trend-driven eateries and quick dining options, Bar Crispin offers something more refined and thoughtful. It’s a place where you can take your time, enjoy carefully sourced ingredients, explore an evolving wine list, and feel completely at ease while doing so. The attentive service, expertly executed menu, and stylish setting combine to make it one of the best places to eat in Carnaby – and beyond.
Plan Your Visit
Bar Crispin
19 Kingly Street, Soho, London W1B 5PY
www.crispinlondon.com/bar-crispin
+44 (0)20 8050 0373
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
Whether you’re looking for a pre-theatre bite, an intimate dinner with friends, or simply a glass of something extraordinary in a beautiful setting, Bar Crispin is a true standout in Carnaby.
