February 7, 2010
171-173 Bermondsey Street, London, SE1 3UW
Tel: 020 7357 6082
Tube: Borough / London Bridge
Cuisine: Modern European
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 12:00-23:30, Fri 12:00-01:30, Sat 11:00-01:30, Sun 11:00-23:00
Booking: Essential at weekends
Avg Food Spend: £20 – £30 per person
NYC meets Copenhagen. Serving Bermondsey’s hip locals, Village East is a well thought-out and stylish eatery combining an industrial feel with chic Scandinavian design. The frequently changing ‘modern eclectic’ menu is delicious and there is always something new and exciting to sample; great as we can guarantee you’ll be coming back again and again. The cocktail bar is worth a visit in itself. The agile bartenders will whip you a mouth-watering cocktail – Tom Cruise style and the blend of chilled beats creates a very easygoing drinking experience. For a date it’s best to visit during the week when it’s buzzing but not too crowded. It’s also great for a lazy Sunday brunch.
Village East website
51.550000
-0.283000
January 31, 2010
126 Drury Lane, Covent Garden, London, WC2B 5SU
Tel: 0207 836 0101
Tube: Covent Garden/ Holborn
Opening Hours: 12:00-00:00
Cuisine: International
Average food spend: £20-30
Booking: Essential
This flamboyant and fun opera-inspired restaurant in the heart of theatre land is named after a character in Mozart’s The Magic Flute. The eccentric decor is a feast for the eyes and will have you completely mesmerised. Unfortunately, the menu isn’t quite as remarkable, don’t get us wrong the food is well-executed but it’s just not as imaginative and quirky as the surroundings. It’s very busy at peak times so you must reserve, and make sure you ask for one of the opera boxes for a more magical experience. If you’re lucky you might even catch a live opera performance.
Sarastro’s website
51.515273
-0.121487
January 4, 2010
119 Kensington Church Street, Kensington, W8 7LN
Tel: 020 7727 4242
Tube: Nottinghill Gate
Opening Hours: Mon-Wed 11:00-23:00, Thu-Sat 11:00-00:00, Sun 12:00-22:30
Cuisine: Thai and British
This eccentric pub is a welcome oddity in the midst of a sea of ultra-stylish and minimalist West London venues. With battered pots, pans and copper vessels hanging from the ceilings and a disordered scattering of pictures of famous political figures and royalty the Churchill Arms is bursting with charisma. Consistent with the unusual character of this place, they have a Thai restaurant towards the rear of the pub that serve a small but well executed menu at very reasonable prices. Actually, why am I holding back? The food is divine! You can very easily mooch away a cold afternoon by the fire.
51.550000
-0.283000
January 4, 2010
208-209 High Holborn, WC1V 7BW
Tel: 020 7405 8816
Tube: Holborn
Opening hours: Monday -Saturday 11:00-23:00
Cuisine: British
This Victorian pub has a stunning interior and very relaxed atmosphere in the heart of central London – we could hardly believe it ourselves. With its new refurbishment in 2007 Samuel Smiths has done a great job bringing it back to it previous glory. The maze of wooden doors will lead you to different enclaves where you can enjoy some privacy by the bar or snuggle up by the fireplace, which is tucked away at the rear of the pub. With real ales at low prices and the opportunity to line your stomach with some hearty British food in the restaurant upstairs there really isn’t much more you could ask for. Get there early to snag the best seats in the house.
51.550000
-0.283000
January 3, 2010
22 Holly Mount, Hampstead, NW3 6SG
Tel: 020 7435 2892
Tube: Hampstead
Opening Times: Open noon-23.00 Mon-Sat; noon-22.30 Sun.
Cuisine: British
The Hollybush is a historic watering hole full of character and charm. If you happen to be in Hampstead on a blustery afternoon, it’s an absolute must. Nestled away in a picturesque mews it’s a little tricky to find but you’ll be rewarded on all fronts if you make the effort. Although the restaurant is busy this pub is really about getting cosy by the fire with a nice pint and one of their specialty pies.
The Hollybush website
January 3, 2010
19 Upper Mall, London W6 9TA
Tel: 020 8748 9474
Tube: Ravenscourt Park / Hammersmith
Cuisine: British
Highlights: Terrace on the river and open fireplace
The Dove is one of London’s most famous pubs and dates as far back as the 17th Century. It has everything; great beer, good food, anopen fire and a terrace with stunning views across the river. It’s always been popular boasting a long list of celebrity customers including Ernest Hemmingway and James Thomson (he wrote Rule, Britannia). The low ceilings, cosy saloon bar and dark oak beams makes the Dove a perfect romantic but laid-back date. Be warned the pub gets really busy at the weekend so if you want a Sunday roast you’ll need to get there early.
January 3, 2010
1 Wellington Terrace, Bayswater Road, W2 4LW
Tel: 0207 792 4527
Tube: Queensway / Nottinghill Gate
Opening times: Monday – Thursday 12.00-23.00, Friday & Saturday 12.00-midnight, Sunday 12.00 – 22:30
Cuisine: British
Nicely located between Notting Hill and Queensway tube stations the Champion is a well thought out pub in an area full of overpriced Bistros. We like it best in winter when the dark wood décor, mismatched furniture and open fireplace all create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. In the summer you can make use of the small terrace at the back. The Champion definitely tries hard to offer its punters a well-rounded experience. Entertainment wise they have a wine club, quiz night and regular jam sessions. If you just want to have a quiet drink and some decent pub food at reasonable prices Monday, Tuesdays or Sundays are best. The service can be hit and miss but overall the atmosphere is inviting the food is decent and they offer a wide selection of beers and wines. We highly recommend it for a casual date option.
The Champion’s website
January 3, 2010
105 – 107 Talbot Road, Notting Hill, W11 2AT
Tel: 0207 229 2400
Tube: Westbourne Park/Ladbroke Grove
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday 8.30- 23:00. Last orders at 22:15
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Located a stone’s throw away from Portobello market Raoul’s has a true European café culture vibe and a menu to match, we were considering keeping it a secret! Serving fresh fruit smoothies, all day English breakfast, brunch and a lovely dinner menu, it’s not difficult to see why there are queues spilling out onto the streets. Even though it gets busy it’s not noisy, definitely worth the wait.
Raoul’s website
December 30, 2009
209 Westbourne Road, Notting Hill, W11 1EA
Tel: 020 7243 9818 / Bookings: 020 7243 9818
Tube: Ladbroke Grove
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 12.00 – 15.00 & 18.00 – 23.00
Saturday:11.00 – 16.00 & 18.00 – 23.00
Sunday: 11.00 – 16.00 & 18.00 – 23.00
Cuisine: British
Bumpkin located in Notting Hill offers homely British cooking in a laid-back country farmhouse style setting. The restaurant is divided into three floors, the ground floor resembles a country tavern, the second floor is a fine dining space and the third floor is perfect for relaxing with after dinner drinks. The menu features a wide range of dishes made with fresh and seasonal produce, from market garden salads to hearty pies. We highly recommend the traditional lunch with all the trimmings on Sunday, it’s absolutely delicious.
Bumpkin’s website
51.550000
-0.283000
December 23, 2009
No. 1 Whitby Street, London, E1 6JU
Cuisine: Japanese
Tube: Old Street/ Liverpool Street
Opening times: Mon–Thurs & Sun 18.00-00:00, Fri 17.30- 1.00, Sat 18.00-1.00
Booking: Essential
If you’re out to impress, read on! Lounge Lover is dating paradise; elegant low-lit lighting, vintage Rococo armchairs, opulent chandeliers, and tea lights set on beautiful glass tables all oozing a decadent but offbeat glamour. If you thought it couldn’t get any better the Chinese-printed menus will guide you through a list of cocktails by dating genre (Hot Lover, Old Flame, First Love, Sweeties) and light and well-executed Japanese dishes. To top it all off they host regular soulful live music sessions. Check out their website for further details.
Lounge Lover’s website
51.550000
-0.283000
Filed under Bars, CIty, Early days, First Date, Restaurants, Shoreditch, re-igniting a dwindling flame
Tags: cocktails, Intimate, Live music, Quirky, Sophisticated, Special Occasion, Splurge, Stylish, Sushi, Wow-factor
December 21, 2009
252 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EN
Tel: 0207 829 7000
Tube: Holborn
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 12:00-14:30, 18:00-10:00; Sat 18:00-10:00
Cuisine: French
Average food spend: £40+
Pearl is a fine dining restaurant specialising in classic French food mastered by famous chef Jun Tanaka. It is described as a “sensual dining experience” and thats exactly what it is! As soon as you enter you will notice the hanging pearls separating each intimate seating area in the bar, this leads to the main restaurant which hosts neutral walls decorated by grande pearl chandeliers. You can dine and drink from an award winning wine list whilst listening to the pianist playing soulful melodies. We think the splendor of Pearl is an ultimate treat for a date.
Pearl bar & restaurant website
Filed under Bars, Central london, Restaurants, re-igniting a dwindling flame
Tags: French, Intimate, Live music, Sophisticated, Special Occasion, Splurge, Upmarket, Wow-factor
December 21, 2009
11-14 Hanover Place, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9JP
Tel:0207 379 3444
Tube: Covent Garden
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12:00-11:00
Cuisine: French
Average food spend: £20-£30
This sophisticated and stylish restaurant is quietly hidden away in Hanover Place. The giant chandeliers, dark walls, soft lighting create the ideal ambiance for a date. It can get busy but the tables are spread out nicely and the tranquil music balances the sound from the other diners. Cafe Des Amis has been around for 25 years and still continues to be very popular. It’s in the heart of theatreland so perfect before or after a show.
Cafe Des Amis website
December 21, 2009
10-12 Garrick Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9BH
Tel: 0207 240 7649
Tube: Covent Garden
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12:00-22:44
Cuisine: French
Average food spend: £20-£30
This famous establishment has been around for years and is loved by theatre goers, performers and screen stars. Its an old, shabby but chic french restaurant in a unique building which has maintained its original structure which is rare for a central London spot. Downstairs is an intimate dining space with candlelit alcoves, these use to be pavement coal holes in the 18th century. The intimate warm surroundings create an ideal place for the winter where you can cuddle up and enjoy the friendly informal setting. They also host wine and cheese tasting evenings, which you can book in advance and try the classic wines and tasty cheeses.
Le Garrick website
December 21, 2009
1a Shorts Gardens, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9AT
Tel:0207 240 1796
Tube: Covent Garden
Opening Hours: 12:00-00:00
Cuisine: Moroccan
Average food spend: £15-25
Whisk your date off to this enchanting mini Morocco. As soon as you walk through the tunnel you are welcomed by the warmth and the aroma of North Africa. You can sit on either of the 3 floors which are all beautifully decorated with colourful lanterns, but we recommend you book one of the ground floor alcoves so you can get close on the low cushioned seating. Try the platters of authentic middle eastern delights and share more than just a kiss!
Souk Medina website
51.550000
-0.283000
Filed under Bars, Covent Garden, Early days, First Date, Restaurants
Tags: Casual date, Cosy, Entertainment, Fun & Flirty, Intimate, Laid-back, Middle Eastern, Romantic, Special Occasion, Tea, Unpretentious
December 21, 2009
167 Drury Lane, Covent Garden, London, WC2B 5PG
Tel: 0207 731 9399
Tube: Covent Garden
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12:00-15:00; 17:30-11:30
Cuisine: Indian
Average food spend: £10-£20
Sitaaray is a mini tribute to bollywood; the walls are covered in classic film posters, photo’s of famous hero’s and heroines and charms you with the mesmerising sounds of Hindi songs. There are a few booths on the mezzanine floor where you can dine in private and also be entertained by memorable film clips showing on the screens. It captures the romance of Indian cinema and ensures you fall in love with the tasty north Indian cuisine too. If you are looking for a quirky authentic Indian in the West End with a little glitz and glamour this is the place for you. Sitaaray is romantic, magical and a bit of fun.
Sitaaray website
Filed under Covent Garden, Early days, First Date, Restaurants
Tags: Budget, Casual date, Entertainment, Fun & Flirty, Good Vegetarian choice, Indian, Quirky, Unpretentious, Wow-factor
December 21, 2009
47 Endell Street, London, WC2H 9AJ
Tel: 0207 836 3785
Tube: Covent Garden
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30-23:30; Sun 12:00-22:00
Cuisine: British
Average food spend: £5-10
This traditional fish and chips establishment is well positioned in the West End. It’s a casual and relaxed diner where you can get your teeth into some good English food. There is seating outside which is ideal for summer and indoor seating too for those colder days. Great for a quick lunch date if you are in the area or ideal for a casual bite in the evening after the pub.
December 21, 2009
22 Betterton Street, London, WC2H 9BX
Tel: 0207 420 9880
Tube: Covent Garden
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00-23:00; Sat 19:00-23:00
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Average food spend: £5-10
The Poetry cafe is an unconventional date place which will get your creative juices flowing. It’s a regular cafe in the day which serves fresh, hearty, vegetarian food and in the evening it’s transformed into a venue where people come and share their poetry as part of the regular readings or in open mic session. It’s not the most romantic setting but if you need a bit of inspiration for that love poem you’ve been meaning to write each other, you definitely check it out.
Poetry Cafe website
Filed under Activity, Bars, Café, Central london, Covent Garden, Restaurants
Tags: Brunch, Budget, Casual date, Coffee & Cakes, Entertainment, Good Vegetarian choice, Quirky
December 21, 2009
67 Drury Lane, Covent Garden, London, WC2B 5PG
Tel: 0207 831 9399
Tube: Covent Garden
Opening hours: Dinner Mon-Sat 17:30-11:30; Late bar Mon-Thurs till 02:00, Fri-Sat till 03:00
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Average food spend: £30-£40
1
Tamarai effortlessly provides a complete 3d experience; dining, drinking and dancing! Great news for Covent Garden, as we’re sure you’ll agree it can be difficult finding somewhere to go after supper. The purple and dark blues with delicate lights create a sultry and stylish ambience – the perfect setting for any kind of date. The Asian fusion cuisine from India, China, Thailand and Vietnam is delicious along with the exotic array of cocktails. After 11pm the restaurant transforms into one of London’s popular late night spots with an in house Dj playing funky house and RnB, so you can dance the night away into the early hours.
Tamarai website
Filed under Bars, Central london, Covent Garden, Early days, Restaurants
Tags: Asian, Dancing, Intimate, Smart, Sophisticated, Splurge, Stylish
December 17, 2009
33 King Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 8JD
Tel:0207 379 9696
Tube: Covent Garden
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 12:00-14:15 & 17:00-23:45; Sun 12:00-14:15 & 17:00-22:00
Cuisine: French
Booking: Essential to book well in advance
Average food spend: £20-£30
One of London’s truly romantic restaurants right in the heart of Covent Garden. Intimate, warm and and very charming. It’s really one of a kind; the dining room has a fantasy feel with its blossom tree branches and open log fire which is coupled with impeccable service and excellent modern French cuisine. The best seating is in the conservatory near the fireplace, but you must book well in advance as this area is very popular. An idyllic date for that someone special, very highly recommended.
Clos Maggiore website
Filed under Covent Garden, Early days, Restaurants, re-igniting a dwindling flame
Tags: Cosy, French, Intimate, Romantic, Sophisticated, Special Occasion, Splurge, Stylish, Wow-factor
December 15, 2009
Good food, excellent beer, time to chat, entertainment and a fabulous view of the river. What more could you ask for? This laid-back but interesting date will give you everything you need for a perfect evening or Sunday afternoon rendezvous.
1. Start out at Ravenscourt Park or Hammersmith Tube Station
2. 10 minute stroll to The Dove where you can enjoy a refreshing pint and some delicious food
3. Enjoy a theatre production or an art-house film at the Riverside Studios
Click here for a map
The Dove
19 Upper Mall, London W6 9TA
020 8748 9474
The Dove is one of London’s most famous pubs and dates as far back as the 17th Century. It has everything; great beer, good food, an open fire and a terrace with stunning views across the river. It’s always been popular boasting a long list of celebrity customers including Ernest Hemmingway and James Thomson (he wrote Rule, Britannia). The low ceilings, cosy saloon bar and dark oak beams makes the Dove a perfect romantic but laid-back date. Be warned the pub gets really busy at the weekend so if you want a Sunday roast you’ll need to get there early.
Riverside Studios
Crisp Road, London, W6 9RL
020 8237 1111
http://www.riversidestudios.co.uk
Is a great venue that is really underexposed in London. They have theatre space presenting internationally imported shows and occasionally homegrown new work. Music, dance and comedy productions as well as a fabulous cinema showcasing films that you’ll never see anywhere else. This is a cinema for genuine film lovers. The bar is trendy and has a good bar-food and brunch menu. We highly recommend Riverside Studios for an interesting date. Check out their website for what’s on.
Filed under Activity, Art Galleries, DATE TRAILS, Early days, Pubs, Theatre
Tags: Alfresco, Brunch, Casual date, Cosy, Entertainment, Gastrofood, Laid-back, Pub, Relaxed, Riverside, Romantic, Sunday evening, Sunday roast
December 14, 2009
One of the greatest things about London is that our museums are free which means you can pop in and out of numerous galleries all in one day – creating an interesting and memorable date. Why not impress your sweetheart with your artistic acumen at London’s best galleries; the two Tates. You can ponder over Rodin’s Le Baiser (The Kiss) at the Tate Britain and then whisk them off to the Tate Modern to deliberate the similarities between Saddam Hussein, Star Wars, Jules Verne and GI Joe! Travel between the two Tates by taking the state-of-the-art (no pun intended!) catamaran designed by none other than Damien Hirst. A very cool way to travel that will definitely score extra brownie points. It runs every day, including weekends, linking the Millbank Millennium Pier (designed by the pair responsible for the London Eye; David marks and Julia Barfield) and Bankside. For you culture junkies, the service also calls at Waterloo pier, near the London Eye and the Saatchi Gallery, a direct river link to 3 major art galleries in London.
Tickets
You can buy tickets from Tate Modern and Tate Britain. Tickets are valid all day and there’s full access for people with disabilities.
Tate website
51.550000
-0.283000
December 7, 2009
If you’re bored of going out for dinner dates we definitely recommend you give climbing a try as an adventurous alternative. Because most climbing activities are about working together you’ll soon know whether your other half is as trustworthy as they make out! There are quite a few climbing centres in London but we’ve only listed the ones we think are best- that suit beginners and advanced climbers. The Castle in Stoke Newington (Green Lanes, Stoke Newington, N4 2HA, 020 8211 7000) set inside a huge Victorian building has a huge range of climbs and lots of courses available. Another favourite is the Mile End Climbing Wall in the park. (Mile End, Haverfield Road, E3 5BE, 0208 980 0289) Even though the routes are a bit more challenging than the average climbing centre there is something to suit all levels. Try out the Monkey room, it’s awesome. Westway Sports centre (1 Crowthorne Road,W10 6RP, 020 8968 2632) devise over 100 new boulder problems every month so you’ll never get bored here. Some of there most creative challenges include: a towering totem pole! 
But if, for some bizarre reason, the idea of getting hot and sweaty in front of your date doesn’t sound appealing try something a little cooler at the Ellis Brigham Gear Shop in Covent Garden (3-11 Southampton Street, WC2E 7HA, 020 7395 1010) it contains an indoor ice-climbing wall. Refrigerated to -15c, it’s perfect for those of you who want a cheap glacial thrill.
December 3, 2009
Parker Street, London, WC2B 5PW
Tel: 0207 242 8600
Tube: Holborn
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 17:00-02:30; Sun 17:00-12:00
Cuisine: South American
Average food spend: £10-£20
With samba, forró, capoeira and a whole host of live bands we have a bit of true Brazil in the heart of Covent Garden 7 days a week. It’s not an intimate date by any means; expect a hip shaking good night of lively entertainment. Get there early to grab a table and take advantage of the Sunset Session where they have offers on selected drinks Monday to Saturday between 5-7pm. Be sure to look online for specific shows.
Guanabara website
December 3, 2009
The Old Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, Shoreditch, London, E1 6RU
Tel: 020 7247 0005
Tube: Liverpool Street
Opening hours: Dinner – Tue-Sat 18:30-10.30; Bar – 18:30-late
Cuisine: Modern European
Average food spend: £20-£30
The Brickhouse is both a restaurant and supper club set over three floors and believe us – it’s full of surprises. It’s located in the historic Truman’s Brewery the heart of Brick Lane. It’s a stylish establishment that serves delicious food on the first two floors and the third floor hosts a number of beds great for lounging the night away! There is a small charge for the entertainment, but it is worth every penny; sultry jazz, cabaret and sexy burlesque are just some examples of what The Brickhouse has to offer. You will need to book your table to ensure you get the best seats in the house; the ones on the ground floor in front of the stage. They have a fabuous Dj playing funky disco on Fridays and Saturdays so you can finish the night twisting and twirling your partner around the dance floor.
The Brickhouse website
December 3, 2009
8 Victoria Embankment, Westminster, London, WC2R 28B
Tel: 0203 371 7777
Tube: Embankment
Opening Hours: Dinner – Mon-Wed 17:30 – 12:30, Thurs-Sat 17:30 – 01:30; Mezzanine bar – Mon-Sat 16:00-late
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Average food spend: £30-£40
We finally have our very own Buddha Bar – hoorah! Fabulous news for all of us seeking a date place that oozes style and seduction. Dim lighting, ambient sounds and the mild scent of alluring incense are all sure to set the scene for a romantic evening but it’s the all mighty Buddha that will watch over you making sure you and your date are in perfect balance! We recommend you start off with a few exotic cocktails on the mezzanine bar which overlooks the dining area – you are sure to find an intimate seating area as there are plenty. If you are peckish you can order something off the bar menu (the sushi is amazing!) or you can dine downstairs – whichever you choose we guarantee the food will not fail to impress. Buddha Bar is a exquisite date place, it ticks all the boxes for us.
Buddha bar website
Filed under Bars, Early days, First Date, Restaurants, re-igniting a dwindling flame
Tags: Asian, cocktails, Intimate, Romantic, Sophisticated, Special Occasion, Splurge, Stylish, Wow-factor
November 30, 2009
1 Greens Court, Soho, W1F 0HA
Tel: 020 7287 7663
Cuisine: Lebanese
Tube: Piccadilly Circus
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 08:00-00:00, Sat 10:00-00:00, Sun 10:00-22:00
Booking: Essential – it’s always busy!
Avg Food Spend: £10 per person
Outdoor Area: Tables and chairs outside where you can smoke shisha.
Disabled Facilities: Wheelchair Access, No Disabled Toilets
Yalla Yalla is an authentic little Lebanese café, just a stumble away from the hoi polloi of Wardour Street. It’s a really sweet, intimate venue that’s great for a breakfast, lunch or dinner. The food is cooked fresh every day and always served with a smile. The middle eastern pop, background music creates lots of atmosphere even on the rare occasion that it might be empty – we don’t think you can beat it for a relaxed bite to eat on a first date or any kind of date really.
Yalla Yalla’s website
51.550000
-0.283000
Filed under Café, Early days, First Date, Restaurants, Soho
Tags: Breakfast, Brunch, Budget, Casual date, Cosy, Good Vegetarian choice, Laid-back, Relaxed, Unpretentious
November 17, 2009
118 Marylebone Lane, London, W1U 2QF
Tel: 020 7935 1144
Tube: Baker Street
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: from 10.00am to 11.00pm , Saturday: from 9.30am to 11.00pm
Average food spend: £10-£20
Tucked away in the streets of Marylebone Café Caldesi is traditional and down to earth. You can enjoy a relaxed café like atmosphere on the ground floor, or go to the first floor if you prefer a more classic Italian restaurant. Lovely candlelit tables set the the cosy atmosphere and they are well spread out, so you don’t have to worry about sharing your intimate secrets with the next table! Wherever you decide to sit you are guaranteed great service and great food. You can also plan a romantic meal at home – and ask Caldesi to prepare a meal in your own dishes so you can take them away and pass them for your own!
Also if you fancy some cookery lessons ask about Cuccini Caldesi.
Cafe Caldesi website
November 17, 2009
19 Blandford Street, Marylebone, London,W1U 3DH
Tel: 0207 224 0970
Tube: Baker Street
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 12:00-15:00 & 18:30-23:00 Sat 18:30-23:30
Average food spend: £20-£30
Elegant, fresh and modern. It’s perfect on all levels offering you and your date an intimate surrounding for that special meal. Your taste buds will definitely be tantalised by the flavours of the world which are elegantly presented. We think you should book a table in the back area, and make sure you book in advance as it’s a popular place which is always busy!
Michael Moore website
November 17, 2009
46 Broadwick Street, Soho, London, W1F 7AF
Tel: 0207 534 1690
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Mon –Sat 12:00-23:00, Sun 13:00-18:00
Cuisine: Spanish
Average food spend: £20-£30
We think this is one of the finest tapas chains in London, and the best thing is that you can pre book your table here unlike the other Brindisas in town. As soon as you enter you get the sense of a intimate relaxed eatery. The staff are helpful, the food divine and the Spanish wine absolutely delicious.
Best table in the house is the one near the window.
Brindisa website
Filed under Bars, Café, Early days, First Date, Restaurants, Soho
Tags: Casual date, Mediterranean, Relaxed, Spanish, Stylish, Unpretentious
November 17, 2009
28 Greek St, Soho, London, W1D 5DQ
Tel: 0207 437 6007
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Mon –Sat 08:30-23:00, Sun 08:30 – 19:00
Cuisine: Coffee & Cakes
Average food spend: £5-£10
An eccentric patisserie in the heart of Soho that’s been serving delectable sweets for almost 20 years. The mismatched furniture gives Maison Bertaux a unique shabby-chic personality that will make you feel welcome and relaxed. Don’t just go for coffee, have a proper English experience by opting for loose leaf tea and a scrumptious pastry – baked fresh on the premises everyday! A rarity these days. If your date has never been here they will definitely thank you. Best seats are to be found outside but they are limited.
November 17, 2009
135 Wardour Street, Soho, London, W1F 0UT
Tel: 0207 478 8888
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Mon –Sat 07:00-00:00, Sun 09:00 – 22:00
Cuisine: Italian
Average food spend: £10-£20
If you want to tempt your date with fine Italian delights then Princi is the place to go. You will be overwhelmed by the variety of delicious food on display under the glass counters and will want to try everything on offer. It serves amazing Italian meze which can be teamed up with divine Italian coffee or a chilled glass of wine. Ideal if you just want to grab a quick snack when you are walking the streets of Soho. Try and avoid peak times as it can get very busy.
Princi website
November 17, 2009
Kingly Court, off Carnaby Street, Soho, London, W1B 5PW
Tel: 0207 700 1628
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Mon –Fri 09:00-18:00, Sat -Sun 10:00 – 17:00
Cuisine: Coffee & Cakes
Average food spend: £5-£10
You can get the perfect coffee and muffins at Sacred and the best part is that its all fair trade and organic. It’s the ideal getaway from the mayhem of central London. If you are lucky there may be some entertainment in the square as it’s perfectly placed in Kingly Court, where you can also explore the weird and wonderful boutique shops after a light bite.
Sacred Cafe Website
51.550000
-0.283000
November 17, 2009
19-21 Great Marlborough Street, Soho, London, W1F 7HL
Tel: 0207 297 5555
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Tues –Sat 18:00-23:00
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Average food spend: £25-£35
Wow your date by taking them to Silk which ingeniously located in an old courthouse which has been transformed into this elegant dining room still featuring the dock, magistrates stand and witness box which serves amazing asian fusion delights. Perfect for a special occasion and, if you want to put your date on a trial…we are positive you will get you a positive verdict!
Check out the converted courthouse toilets - it’s an unusual drinking space but very unique! You can’t miss them as you enter the hotel bar.
Silk at The Courthouse Hotel
November 17, 2009
45 Lexington St, Soho, London, W1F 9AN
Tel: 020 7494 163445
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Mon –Sat 12:00-23;00
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Average food spend: £15-£25
Milldreds is one of London’s few vegetarian restaurants. The fresh and airy canteen feel will make you and your date feel welcome, with the the clean white walls and cute flower vases on the tables. This place is ideal for late tea or lunch, and we think the best tables are the ones near the window if you can get one – you can sit here and enjoy delicious food and people watch. Not one for the carnivores but perfect for those who like greens! Mildred’s doesn’t take bookings so you may have to wait but we think its worth waiting!
Mildred’s website
Filed under Café, Early days, First Date, Restaurants, Soho
Tags: Casual date, Cosy, Good Vegetarian choice, Laid-back, Relaxed, Tea, Unpretentious
November 17, 2009
134 Wardour Street, Soho, London, W1F 8ZR
Tel: 0207 851 7051
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Mon – Thurs 12:00-11:30, Fri – Sat 12:00-00:00, Sun 12:00-22:30
Cuisine: Asian fusion
Average food spend: £20-£30
You might of already heard or seen Inamo as its one of a kind! We recommend this for a first date; it might not be romantic but certainly is different. The main highlight of this funky venue is that you can play battleship over dinner on your touch screen table so you can see from the offset if your date likes a bit of healthy competition! You can also order your drinks and food by using your table screen – ideal if you don’t want to be disturbed! The best part of all is that you can even watch your chefs cook via webcam. Probably one of London’s unusual dining experiences and coolest!
This is sure to score you a few points if your date is a games geek!
Inamo Website
November 17, 2009
49 Lexington St, Soho, London, W1F 9AP
Tel: 0207 494 0514
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 09:00-18:00
Cuisine: French
Average food spend: £15-£25
Its hard to find a little oasis like this in a big city like London these days! Aurora is an intimate dining spot, and we think it has all the ingredients for a perfect date – cosy candlelit tables, fabulous food, reasonably priced wine and a laid back atmosphere. There is also a rear garden where you can dine alfresco; it’s open throughout the year. Aurora is an ideal place to start a romantic affair!
Aurora website
Filed under Café, Early days, First Date, Restaurants, Soho
Tags: Alfresco, Brunch, Cosy, Intimate, Laid-back, Relaxed, Romantic, Special Occasion, Unpretentious
November 17, 2009
12a Newburgh St, Soho, London, W1F 7RR
Tel: 020 7287 8488
Tube: Oxford Street
Restaurant opening hours: Lunch: Monday to Friday 12pm to 3pm, Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday 6pm to 11pm
Bar opening hours: Monday to Saturday 12pm to 12am, Sunday Closed
Cuisine: French
Average food spend: £15-£25
We truly recommend this cute French haven which offers delightful French food and a selection of organic French wine. If you are seeking something informal you can grab a seat downstairs where the tables have candles and the walls are covered in antique Viennese mirrors. It can get a little busy but its still charming and very inviting, and it offers lite bites from a delightful bistro menu. If you are looking for a bit more intimacy book upstairs for a chic dining experience.
Ask for tables 5, 6,and 11 they are the best in the house. Also there are some tables outside on the cobbled streets perfect for when the sun is out.
La Trouvaille website
Filed under Bars, Café, Early days, First Date, Restaurants, Soho, re-igniting a dwindling flame
Tags: Alfresco, Cosy, French, Intimate, Romantic, Special Occasion, Unpretentious
November 17, 2009
17 Beak St, Soho, London, W1F 9RW
Tel: 0207 287 0555
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 18:00-22:30
Cuisine: Thai
Average food spend: £20-£30
Benja is an unassuming Thai restaurant in the heart of Soho. It boasts three distinct floors each with its own personality but maintaining a consistent contemporary Thai theme with artwork scattered around the restaurant. The atmosphere is relaxed and authentic on all floors but we recommend you book a table on the lower ground floor as it provides an intimate setting for a perfect meal or a drink . If possible, choose the booth in front of the bar it has the best lighting.
Benja website
51.550000
-0.283000
November 17, 2009
47 Frith Street, Soho, London, W1D 4
Tel – 020 7439 0747
Tube: Tottenham Court Road
Opening hours: Mon – Sat 18:00-03:00, Sun 18:00 – 12:00
Cuisine: British
Average food spend: £20-£30
Whether your date is a Jazz lover or not this place will not fail to impress. It’s a world famous spot which attracts famous musicians from around the world. You can get close in the red lighten, smoky room and enjoy a drinks or even a meal whilst listening to jazz. After the show you may be able to go the 50’s inspired cocktail lounge.…and that’s when you can really get cozy. We think it’s a distinguished London night out for that special someone.
Make sure you book a show in advance as tickets sell out quite quickly for popular shows!
Ronnie Scott’s website
November 17, 2009
100 Wardour St, Soho, London, W1F 0TN
Tel – 0207 314 4000
Tube: Oxford Street
Opening hours: Tues-Wed 17.30-02.00, Thurs – Sat 17.30-03.00
Cuisine: Latin American
Average food spend: £20-£30
Little Havana in the heart of London, Floridita is a perfect one-stop-shop for the ultimo Latino style date. Sip on refreshing cuba libres, nibble on delicious quesadillas and mambo until the sun comes up. If you’re all left feet don’t fret, just sit back and enjoy the live entertainment while you tuck in.
Floridita website
Filed under Activity, Bars, Early days, First Date, Restaurants, Soho, re-igniting a dwindling flame
Tags: cocktails, Dancing, Fun & Flirty, Live music, Lively, Stylish
