Udon at Koya London
Cover Udon at Koya (Photo: @koyalondon/Instagram)

Where and what to eat in the vibrant entertainment district of London

Soho has something for everyone, whether entertainment for theatre fans, a plethora of department stores for shoppers, or a pulsing nightlife for those looking for a fun night out. Furthermore, Chinatown is at the border of the area.

As such, Soho boasts an incredibly bustling dining scene, ranging from cafés serving sweet treats to some of the best restaurants in central London. 

Read on for our dining writer’s recommendations for a day of eating in the energetic neighbourhood.

Read more: A Taste of Home: Hong Kong-based Gavin Chin shares his favourite beef noodles in Kuala Lumpur

Start your day at Koya

There are few better ways to begin your day than by slurping down a steaming bowl of noodles in London. The place serves some of the best noodles in London. Dinnertime gets quite crowded so why not come earlier as freshly made udon noodles are served from 10am every day.

See also: Editor's Picks: Restaurants and cafes we love in Malaysia that have shuttered

For a sweet treat, visit Crème or Kova Patisserie

Known for decadent, soft cookies inspired by those in New York, Crème’s offerings are a meal on its own. Try the white chocolate cookie with savoury bursts of miso—we promise you won’t be disappointed. 

For slices of delicate mille crêpe cakes in flavours such as matcha, earl grey, and chocolate, visit Kova Patisserie. The strawberry shortcake is also a must-try, with a pillowy chiffon base layered with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Don't miss: Shirmy Chan’s Bar Terumi is one of Malaysia’s few female-owned bars

Have a fancy meal at Kiln or Nopi

Thai grill Kiln is loved for its flavourful plates and claypot offerings, from curries and broths to grilled meats. Don’t miss the famous claypot-baked glass noodles with crabmeat.

Alternatively, visit Yotam Ottolenghi’s Nopi for delicious, vegetable-forward sharing plates and Middle Eastern flavours, from aubergine with tahini to charred pumpkin with dukkah. The savoury cheesecake with beetroot, honey and almonds is a slice of decadence.

Read more: Inside Scoop founders Edmund Tan and Lim Shiew Li on the future of the Malaysian ice cream brand

Go for drinks at Hongdae Pocha

For a fun night out, a visit to Hongdae Pocha is a must, though it's advisable to book in advance to avoid the snaking long queues outside. Leave your mark by writing your name on the walls with the black marker pen provided at every table before picking your choice of soju, beer or korean wine. A side of crispy Korean fried chicken is mandatory.

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