Bar Soho is a fun bar with an excellent location along Old Compton Street. If you want to experience Soho for all it is then this is the central hub. Every type of person you could imagine inhabits this funky road and that is brought into the bars that line it.

The Venue
Bar Soho is pretty laid back in its decor. Lots of red and wood hues line the main room and it’s large and airy - just what you need on a busy night out in Soho. The bar itself is one of the central focal points of the venue and is large so the queues associated with similar smaller establishments aren’t a problem here. On walking in there’s no mistaking where you are as the Bar Soho sign proudly announces itself. There are plenty of tables, although it’s a good idea to reserve as it gets very busy. There’s also a great touch for smokers and those wishing to make the most of a hot summer’s day as the front of the venue is all open and the tables lead out of the large front entrance and onto the street. It’s unusual for the area for a bar to have such a prominent outside area, and it’s perfect for people watching. There is also a large room upstairs with its own sound system that can hold up to 100 people and is available for private hire.

The Atmosphere
The atmosphere here is buzzing as hordes of post-work drinkers flock to the bars of Old Compton Street. The clientele are pretty relaxed and are mostly nearby office workers, although tourists and visitors do also make up a portion of the customers. As is the norm with Soho, the bar is also gay-friendly and the atmosphere of the whole street, which enters the bar as the night progresses, is one of laid-back fun. If it’s a quiet drink you‘re after or a great first date option then this isn’t for you, but if you want a fun place to go for a drink with colleagues or friends before hitting the clubs then this is a good choice. Unusually for London, the staff are really friendly and do their best to accommodate everyone.

The Music
Like the rest of the bar, this music is a bit cheesy but is fun and all in the name of a good night out. The resident DJ pumps out 80s and 90s beats and everyone seems to thoroughly enjoy it. Musos may cringe, but this is not the place for those who are serious about their music, this is all in the name of fun.

The Food
The food is surprisingly good for a bar like this and is extremely well priced with large portion sizes. Everything from chips and potato skins to quesadillas, nachos and dipping breads are available, with a few more unusual options such as baked brie. There are also large sharing platters for parties of around 7-10, which is a great idea for larger groups feeling hungry after a long day. Prices range from a ridiculously cheap £3-£6 and two of you will struggle with 4-5 dishes to share.

The Drink
Drinks here are really reasonable for the area and there‘s a nice selection of the usual offerings such as lagers, wines and spirits. The cocktails are also surprisingly good for such an establishment, with an excellent mojito offered. Expect the classics but not the exotic. Instead, this is an unpretentious bar for those wanting to kick back for a bit with no hassles.

The Last Word
Bar Soho does exactly what it says on the tin. It’s a laid-back, fun place that isn’t for people who are serious about their clubbing but is cool for a post-work drink and boogy.

venue information venue map view london review user reviews (8) image gallery (4) venue hire