Some places are just intrinsically cool, years of history building the spot you see in front of you today. The French House in London's Soho is one such place. With a long, proud history as the haunt of literary and media types, The French House has a long-standing reputation as a central pillar in London's historic district of dastardliness and debauchery.
Its iconic blue frontage with huge French Tricolour and Union Jack blowing in the breeze is as much a part of the Soho landscape as neon signs and sex shops, but what makes this place so special is its beautifully maintained atmosphere ties you to those who have passed through before.
Upstairs a Michelin Guide-listed restaurant sells appealing French fare in a small room, but wine by the glass is the true currency here, with its unique history part of the district's rich tapestry from years of journalists pouring off Fleet Street to chew the fat on the latest happenings in the world of news.
This bohemian bar is both a classy and raucous spot, where good taste in both art and wine is vital but stuffy manners are chucked into one of the well-used cigarette bins out front. If its wine-soaked tables could talk, they'd tell of the endless nights of laughter, rosy cheeks and steamed-up windows that the French House is almost a synonym of for those in the know.
Find your way with 222 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The Hermit’s Cave is the kind of place the pub lovers ‘pop down for a quick one’ before dinner, a gentle spot for a gentle relationship with alcohol...
by
Blink and you’ll miss it. This private little Loughborough Junction spot is well hidden, down a single-file alley off the otherwise unremarkable Hinton Rd.
by
Bookmongers truly is one of the gems of Brixton. Just be warned, if you head down with a busy schedule, be prepared to miss your next appointment.
by
Inside are people that know each other, who have helped keep their boozer free from the relentless march of gentrification while so many others failed.
by
In essence, when it comes to stylish neighbourhood pizza joints, Theo’s has all the bases covered starting with banging pizza, fair prices and good drinks.
by
"Swingers London" London is a crazy indoors golf course with a bar and lots of street food-style eateries. Tip: get a few cocktails at the bar beforehand.
by
"Peckham Levels" is in one of London's most formerly notorious neighborhoods. Now it's one of the coolest neighborhoods -- come and spend a whole day here!
by
I have tried to resist repeatedly getting their pain au chocolat and try something else from their wide selection of savoury treats as well...
by
Aside from its compelling history, what really sets Fitzrovia Chapel apart is its extraordinary gold mosaic ceiling. So don't forget to look up!
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