London Soho Food Tasting Tour With Secret Food Tours

If you’re thinking about experiencing Soho beyond just the nightlife, this London Soho Food Tasting Tour with Secret Food Tours might be just what you need. It promises a mix of culinary delights and fascinating local stories—all within a few hours. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting how this tour combines food, history, and a sense of discovery in one package.

What really catches our attention are the variety of food stops—from bao buns to croquettes—and the small group size, which means you’ll get a more personal and relaxed experience. Plus, the inclusion of alcohol tastings and expert guides makes it a well-rounded way to spend an afternoon in Soho. One thing to keep in mind: the tour is limited to those 18 and over, and dietary restrictions aren’t accommodated, so it’s worth considering if you have specific allergies or vegan preferences.

This tour is best suited for food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to uncover the layers of Soho’s culture through cuisine. If you enjoy guided experiences that mix history with bites and drinks, this might just be a perfect fit. However, if you’re after a long, in-depth deep dive into London’s culinary scene, this is more of a tasting sampler than a comprehensive course.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more intimate experience
• Diverse culinary stops highlight Soho’s multicultural food scene
• Knowledgeable guides add depth with history and local insights
• Includes drinks and water at no extra cost, adding value
• Limited to 10 travelers for a personalized touch
• Age restrictions mean it’s not suitable for under 18s

This tour offers a three to four-hour walk through some of Soho’s most iconic spots, combining cultural insights with delicious bites. It’s designed to give you a taste of the neighborhood’s past and present, with plenty of opportunities to chat with your guide and fellow travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at 51 Carnaby Street, famously associated with the swinging ‘60s fashion scene. You’ll get a quick 30-minute taste of Soho’s historic fashion roots, setting the scene for the rest of the walk. The street is lively and packed with shops and history, making it a great intro to the area.

Next, on Broadwick Street, you’ll see the Spirit of Soho Mural. This vibrant piece of street art captures Soho’s artistic flair and rebellious spirit. It’s a visual reminder of the neighborhood’s unconventional past. This stop is also 30 minutes long and free, giving you some space to take photos and soak in the atmosphere.

The tour continues at the famous John Snow water Pump on 44 Broadwick Street, which marks a pivotal point in medical history—it’s linked to the 1854 cholera outbreak and the birth of epidemiology. The guide shares insights into how Soho’s history extends beyond just food.

Then, you’ll visit Great Windmill Street, home to a historic entertainment venue that made headlines during WWII with its nude revues. While the venue no longer hosts such acts, the building’s rich history adds layers to Soho’s entertainment legacy. This stop is also free and offers a glimpse into the neighborhood’s nightlife evolution.

Exploring Soho’s Edgier Side

Moving on, the tour visits Peter Street & Berwick Street, where you’ll see Soho’s Red Light District—a part of London’s past that shaped the city’s nightlife and cultural fabric. The tour doesn’t shy away from this history, and it adds an authentic edge to the experience.

At Berwick Street Market, you’ll find a bustling marketplace that’s been a staple since the 18th century. It’s a perfect spot to experience local life and see how Soho’s multiculturalism is reflected in its food scene. The market’s lively buzz sets the tone for the tasting part of the tour.

Finally, you’ll arrive at the iconic French House pub on 49 Dean Street—a favorite among artists and writers, including Dylan Thomas and Francis Bacon. It’s rich in culture and tradition, and the guide shares stories that add depth to your visit.

The last stop is Gerrard Street in Chinatown, where the vibrant colors, sounds, and smells of Chinese culture are palpable. You’ll sample authentic cuisine and experience how Chinatown contributes to London’s diverse culinary offerings.

What You’ll Taste

Throughout the tour, you’ll indulge in a handful of thoughtfully curated bites: King prawn croquettes with seafood aioli, Jamon & migas croquettas, luxurious truffle arancini with fontina cheese, and a Coconut Beef Rendang Curry with Roti Canai flatbreads. Plus, you’ll enjoy fluffy BBQ pork bao buns and a secret dish that keeps the experience exciting.

The drinks are equally well-chosen, with three historic gins and the opportunity to have a drink at a local bar, all included in the ticket price. Water is also provided, keeping you refreshed as you walk.

The Experience and Its Highlights

What makes this tour special isn’t just the food—it’s how it’s integrated into Soho’s story. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and personable approach. Reviewers mention guides like Tom, Anita, and Paul as being engaging, fun, and full of interesting facts. One reviewer said, “Tom was great! We were running late, and he did everything to make us feel comfortable and welcome,” which underscores how accommodating the guides are.

The small group size—limited to just 10 travelers—means you won’t be lost in a crowd. It allows for more personalized interaction and flexibility. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s insights into Soho’s history and culture add a layer of richness to the tasting experience.

Value for Money

At $139 per person, this tour offers a solid value, especially considering the all-inclusive food and drinks. The tasting menu is substantial enough to keep you full, and the insider knowledge is an added bonus. Comparing the price with the overall experience—visiting iconic spots, tasting diverse cuisines, and learning about Soho’s past—most reviewers agree it’s worth the investment.

Considerations Before Booking

A few practical points to keep in mind: the tour is not suitable for those under 18 and does not accommodate dietary restrictions like vegan, gluten-free, or nut allergies. Dress code requirements exclude flip flops and full tracksuits, so comfortable yet tidy attire is recommended. The tour is near public transportation, which makes it easy to access, and the walking is moderate, suited for those with some mobility.

This experience is ideal for foodies, curious travelers who like exploring neighborhoods with a mix of history and culture, and those who appreciate small group settings. It’s particularly good if you want a fun, relaxed afternoon in Soho without the pressure of a large tour. If your main goal is deep, multi-day culinary immersion, this might be more of a sampler, but for a taste of Soho’s essence, it’s a winner.

This Soho Food Tasting Tour offers a well-balanced mix of historic insights, authentic bites, and lively atmosphere. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and carefully curated stops make it stand out as a personable way to explore London’s nightlife capital. The inclusion of drinks and the variety of flavors you’ll sample mean you leave feeling full and enriched.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and tasty way to spend a few hours in London, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly suitable if you enjoy engaging guides, local stories, and diverse cuisines in a cozy setting. Just remember the age restrictions and dietary considerations, and you’ll be set for a memorable Soho adventure.

Is this tour suitable for children or under 18s?
No, the tour does not accept guests under 18, as some venues do not permit minors and the experience involves alcohol tastings.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Unfortunately, no. The tour cannot accommodate restrictions such as vegan, gluten-free, or nut allergies, so plan accordingly.

What’s included in the ticket price?
All food and drinks, including alcohol, water, and the guided experience, are included. You’ll get to taste multiple dishes and three historic gins.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a great way to enjoy a substantial yet manageable exploration of Soho.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 17-18 Golden Square in Soho and ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Is transportation needed?
No, but the tour is near public transportation, which makes reaching the meeting point easy.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and neatly—full tracksuits or flip flops are not permitted. Expect some walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

This tour offers a lively, flavor-packed way to experience Soho’s history and culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, it’s a delightful way to uncover the neighborhood’s layers—one bite at a time.