Hidden on a backstreet between Soho and Covent Garden since the 1970s, Le Beaujolais is a rare find in Central London. I only discovered it recently, but it has already become my go-to place when I am in the area and want to enjoy a glass of wine.
Owned and run by a French couple, its uniqueness lies in its old-world atmosphere, which celebrates French wine culture and culinary tradition, with its rustic ambience setting it apart from the trendier wine bars. Step inside, and you are instantly taken to a journey to France by the aromas of cheese, wine, and freshly fried pommes frites. The décor of the interior is best left as a surprise, as the real magic is in experiencing it first-hand. The wine list features a carefully curated selection of French wines from different regions, all reasonably priced despite the prime location.
The downstairs restaurant operates as a members-only club, yet a small selection of mains can be ordered at the bar, all based on traditional French recipes and made with ingredients sourced from small suppliers in France. Nibbles are available, too, with the cheese platter and French fries being its best-sellers.
Being amongst the few authentic places left in this part of town, Le Beaujolais enjoys a loyal crowd of regulars who value its relaxed and intimate atmosphere. That said, my advice is to visit on weekdays as it tends to get busier at weekends.
Find your way with 222 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Barnsbury Wood is enjoyed by Londoners all year round, but it is at its most glorious in the summer months when the trees are drenched in golden sunlight.
by
The gardens and pergola are open to the public and are a great spot for a walk or a peaceful afternoon with a good book in hand while lying on the grass.
by
The people of Bonnington Square really know how to foster a vibe with leafy exotic plants spraying scattered shadows as you sit and eat...
by
From focaccia to pasta, coffee to cake, this one-stop shop is as much a place to buy your brew and bread as it is to have a lunchtime bite of pasta...
by
Birds sing while trains rumble along atop the parallel railway arches, old men play boule in the shade and planes skim overhead on approach to Heathrow.
by
Of all the reasons why you have to check out this idyllic boozer, perhaps the most important is that this is the home of the finest scotch egg in London.
by
From the run-down chic aesthetic to the strong beer selection and excellent pub garden, there are no chinks in the Dog House's armour...
by
Inside, the bar is a welcoming, tightly-packed vibe with old-fashioned, old-world decor with gorgeous bare wood surfaces & countless pictures on the walls.
by
The unassuming, retro signage outside amidst the noise & din of Waterloo might pull you in, but what makes you stay is the genuine town tavern feel inside.
by
With a rustic French feel, Pierre offers dishes with rich red-wine sauces and tasty meats from much of the spectrum of the French culinary roster.
by
With old-fashioned vintage Guinness branding adoring just about every surface, this is the ideal spot to take a moment and enjoy a perfectly-poured pint.
by
Built back in 2010 on the site of a disused railway line, it’s a local secret: a quiet, forest-like space to retreat to when city life becomes overwhelming.
by
222 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 222 Insider Tips