What to Eat in London? Start with Bar Crispin

When it comes to finding the best places to eat in London, Bar Crispin in Soho should be at the very top of your list. Tucked away on Kingly Street just off Carnaby, this stylish wine bar and restaurant offers a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience that beautifully represents London’s modern food scene. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, Bar Crispin is an ideal starting point for exploring the city’s culinary excellence.

A Modern European Menu with British Soul

Bar Crispin’s menu is driven by seasonality, simplicity, and quality British produce. Curated with flair and intention, the food offering is European-inspired with a distinctly modern British twist, celebrating small-scale producers and sustainably sourced ingredients. The menu is designed for grazing and sharing, making it perfect for long, leisurely lunches or casual evening meals paired with a glass of something excellent from our acclaimed wine list.

Small Plates, Big Flavour

To kick things off, the Gordal olives and Marcona almonds make the perfect snack while you browse the menu or sip your first glass of natural wine. For something freshly baked, the Toklas sourdough with cultured butter is a must-order. It’s simple, but beautifully executed – the kind of starter that sets the tone for a quality meal.

If you’re looking for cheese and charcuterie, you’re in luck. The Hartgrove coppa brings rich, silky cured meat to the table, while Neal’s Yard cheese plate is a celebration of British artisanal cheeses, featuring Tunworth, Pevensey Blue and Cornish Yarg served with honey. It’s a luxurious addition to any meal and ideal for sharing.

For something crispy and moreish, don’t skip the crispy polenta with aioli and parmesan. It’s comfort food at its finest – golden, salty, and utterly addictive.

Must-Try Signature Dishes

One of Bar Crispin’s signature bites is the fried prawn sando, a delightful little sandwich filled with fried prawn, chilli, pickled cucumber, and crab mayo. It’s packed with bold flavour in a small package – a perfect small plate that shows off the kitchen’s creativity.

Another standout is the aged beef tartare on a crumpet, which is a clever twist on a classic. The tender beef, seasoned to perfection, is served atop a savoury crumpet and delivers a satisfying depth of flavour.

Seafood lovers will enjoy the cuttlefish with XO sauce, almond dressing and herb salad – a dish that balances richness and freshness with elegance. Meanwhile, the clams and rice with crab sauce and coriander offer a more comforting, warming option that nods to coastal influences.

Mains with Impact

The grilled pork collar skewer with kumquat and black garlic delivers a punchy blend of smoky, sweet and umami notes in every bite. For something richer, the grilled seabream with ’nduja, yellow peppers and beurre blanc is a beautifully balanced dish – flaky fish meets spicy sausage and velvety sauce in a plate that speaks of both finesse and fire.

Vegetarians will be delighted by options such as the burrata with cavolo nero and walnuts, and the flatbread with cheddar and wild garlic – both hearty, flavourful and thoughtfully prepared.

End on a Sweet Note

Desserts at Bar Crispin are minimal but mighty. The celery and apple ice cream with coconut mousse is fresh, light and refreshing – ideal after a rich meal. For something more indulgent, opt for the fried choux pastry with burnt honey caramel and milk ice cream. It’s a sweet, sticky and satisfyingly crisp finish to your meal.

Wine, Naturally

No meal at Bar Crispin is complete without something from our expertly curated low-intervention wine list.

And if cocktails are more your speed, you’ll find classic choices like the Negroni, Margarita, and Old Fashioned.

Final Thoughts

If you're wondering what to eat in London, Bar Crispin offers a refreshing answer. With its seasonal menu, intimate setting, and expertly paired wines, it captures everything that makes the capital's food scene so exciting. Whether you're sharing small plates with friends, enjoying a solo lunch, or settling in for a romantic dinner, Bar Crispin is a true standout in Soho.

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

Website: www.crispinlondon.com/bar-crispin

Opening hours:

• Mon–Fri: 12:00–15:00 / 17:00–22:00
• Sat: 13:00–15:30 / 17:00–22:00
• Sun: 13:00–17:00

So next time you're out and about in central London and asking yourself where to eat – start with Bar Crispin. You’ll be glad you did.