London Soho Food Tasting Tour With Secret Food Tours

Our review of the London Soho Food Tasting Tour offers a close look at an experience that combines the city’s vibrant history with its buzzing culinary scene. This 3 to 4-hour journey guides you through seven iconic stops, where you’ll sample everything from traditional markets to historic pubs, all while learning fascinating stories about Soho’s evolution. With a maximum group size of just ten, this tour promises an intimate and engaging way to explore one of London’s most energetic neighborhoods.

What we love most about this tour is its mix of authentic food and local insights. The guide’s knowledge and personable style really elevate the experience, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a lively cultural walk. A potential consideration is that the tour is quite full on food and drink, so going in hungry is definitely a good idea. Perfect for food lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting to see Soho’s best spots without the hassle of planning, this experience is well-suited for travelers eager to combine flavor with storytelling.

Key Points

• Intimate groups of just 10 travelers ensure personalized attention and more meaningful interactions.
• Seven historic and vibrant stops provide a comprehensive taste of Soho’s diverse offerings, from markets to pubs.
• All food and drinks, including alcohol, are included, offering excellent value for the price.
• The expert guides share rich stories and insights that bring Soho’s past to life.
• The tour’s duration of around 3 to 4 hours strikes a good balance between tasting and sightseeing.
• Limited dietary options mean it’s best suited for those without specific restrictions like vegan or gluten-free diets.

A Deep Dive into the Soho Food Tasting Tour

What’s Included and How the Value Adds Up

For $139 per person, this tour covers a good deal of ground, both geographically and gastronomically. The price might seem high at first glance, but considering the all-inclusive food and drinks, including three different historic gins, it’s a fair deal. You’ll also be enjoying some water, which is a thoughtful touch after all those bites and sips.

The variety of tastings is one of the tour’s standout features. Expect to try King Prawn Croquettes with Seafood Aioli, Jamon & Migas Croquettas, and a luxurious Italian truffle arancini filled with gooey fontina cheese. These bites are crafted to give you a true sense of Soho’s culinary diversity, blending British, Mediterranean, and Asian influences.

Moving on, the Coconut Beef Rendang Curry with Roti Canai offers a flavorful deep dive into Southeast Asian cuisine, while the fluffy BBQ pork bao buns deliver a perfect bite-sized taste of Asian street food. The Secret Dish—a surprise that varies—keeps anticipation high and adds a touch of exclusivity to the experience.

The Itinerary: Seven Stops for a Well-Rounded Experience

Each stop on this tour serves a purpose, whether it’s exploring Soho’s fashion and cultural history or sampling its culinary gems. You’ll start at Carnaby Street, famous for 1960s fashion, and move through Broadwick Street, where the Spirit of Soho Mural celebrates the neighborhood’s artistic roots. Visiting the John Snow water pump takes you back to the 1854 cholera discovery, giving a fascinating peek into public health history.

Next, you’ll explore Great Windmill Street, once known for its WWII nude revues, adding a bit of risqué history to the mix. Then, delving into Soho’s Red Light District shows the neighborhood’s seedier past, providing context to its lively present. The bustling Berwick Street Market is a highlight, with vendors selling everything from produce to street eats since the 18th century.

The tour also includes a visit to The French House, a pub with a storied history frequented by notable artists such as Dylan Thomas and Francis Bacon. The last stop, Gerrard Street’s Chinatown, offers vibrant sights, sounds, and authentic cuisine that showcase London’s multicultural pulse.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Guides like Anita and Tom have earned praise for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling flair. Reviewers repeatedly mention how guides made the experience feel personal and fun, sharing local color that enriches the tastings. Anita, for instance, added “so much fun to the whole experience,” and Tom was described as “great,” with “fun facts” and a relaxed style.

Expect to spend about 30 minutes at each stop, which balances enough time to explore, listen, and taste without feeling rushed. Some venues do have dress code restrictions, so avoiding flip-flops or full tracksuits is recommended. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, as there’s a fair amount of walking, and some venues may involve stairs or standing.

Why the Reviews Keep Coming Back

The consistent five-star ratings—currently at 4.9 out of 5 based on 261 reviews—highlight the tour’s reliability, engaging guides, and delicious food. Reviewers frequently mention how full they leave, thanks to the generous tastings, and how guides like Anita, Anna, and Tom are knowledgeable and personable. Several mention that they even revisited some of the venues afterward, which speaks volumes about the quality.

One reviewer said, “Tom was hands down one of the best guides we ever had,” emphasizing expertise and storytelling. Others appreciated the local tips shared, which enhanced their overall London experience. The small group size of 10 travelers ensures everyone gets attention and plenty of interaction, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a more personal touch.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration: Around 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable but fulfilling experience.
Price: $139 per person, offering good value given the inclusions and intimate setup.
Availability: Bookings are typically made 49 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise.
Meeting Point: 17-18 Golden Square, centrally located near public transportation, which makes it easy to access.

What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a moderate physical fitness level, and perhaps a small bag for any souvenirs.
Dress Code: No full tracksuits or flip-flops—dressing smart casual is safer.
Restrictions: Not suitable for under-18s and those with specific dietary restrictions like vegan, gluten-free, or nut allergies.

Cancellation Policy: Fully refundable if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, which provides peace of mind for flexible travelers.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This experience is perfect for foodies eager to explore Soho’s vibrant neighborhoods without the hassle of research or long lines. It’s also excellent for those interested in London’s cultural evolution, thanks to the historical stops woven into the tasting route.

The small group size ensures a more engaging and relaxed atmosphere, where guides can tailor their stories and recommendations. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, the convivial vibe makes it easy to connect with fellow travelers.

However, because of the busy venues and the walk involved, it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet and who enjoy a lively, social environment. If you have dietary restrictions or prefer vegan or gluten-free options, this might not be the tour for you, given current limitations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For lovers of culture, history, and delicious food, this Soho tour offers a fantastic blend of all three, wrapped in a lively neighborhood experience. The expert guides bring Soho’s past to life with engaging stories, making each bite more meaningful. The inclusions of alcohol and multiple tastings mean you’ll leave feeling satisfied and full, with a greater appreciation for the neighborhood’s diversity.

The tour’s value for money is solid, considering the small group size, variety of stops, and local insights. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a taste of London’s culinary scene without the guesswork of visiting many venues alone. If you’re a curious explorer who loves good stories paired with great bites, this tour will meet—and likely exceed—your expectations.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children under 18?
No, some venues do not accept under-18s, and children under 18 will be turned away.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Currently, the tour cannot accommodate specific dietary restrictions such as vegan, gluten-free, or nut allergies.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including all stops and tastings.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 17-18 Golden Square and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included, but the meeting point is centrally located near public transit.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking generally happens about 49 days in advance to secure a spot.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and dressing in smart casual attire is advised due to some dress code restrictions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is it a good value for the price?
Considering the quality, variety, and guides, most would agree that it offers good value, especially given the all-inclusive tastings.

If you’re seeking an authentic, flavorful, and engaging way to explore Soho’s history and culture, this tour hits all the marks. It’s a fantastic choice for those who love good food, great stories, and a lively atmosphere—perfect for making your London visit memorable.