The most romantic restaurants in Soho

If you're looking for a romantic restaurant in Soho – or anywhere else, really – you could do worse than good old reliable France, and it doesn't get more reliable, old or French than L'Escargot. Soho's oldest French restaurant is housed in a historic Georgian townhouse and offers classic French cuisine in an elegant, art-filled setting, alongside a selection of exclusively French wines and champagnes. Timeless charm for timeless romance.

Looking to dazzle your date with opulence and show off your familiarity with the finer things in life? Having a convenient tableside champagne button is sure to help. The Bob Bob Ricard restaurants are known for their showstopping Art Deco setting and menus featuring upmarket delicacies such as caviar, and though the impressiveness comes with a suitable cost, you can't really put a price on love, can you?

With its rustic chic interior, intimate ambiance, and wood-fired grill turning the heat up, Ember Yard in Soho is a prime spot for a romantic dinner in Soho. It also helps that the menu celebrates the flavours of Spain and Italy, proverbially two of the most romantic nations in the world, and that it's designed for sharing. There's even a downstairs bar for a post-dinner tipple if things are going well.

Honestly, you'd be hard-pressed not to include Gauthier on any list of Soho restaurants, such is its renown. A fine dining establishment that transitioned entirely to plant-based cuisine under chef Alexis Gauthier, the restaurant offers a modern French dining experience that appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike, served in a charming townhouse with original features. The classical setting with crisp white tablecloths is elegant, romantic, and intimate.

If feeding each other delicate morsels while gazing out at the striking London skyline sounds like a recipe for love to you, head to Aqua Kyoto. This romantic restaurant in Soho offers a sophisticated Japanese dining experience in a sleek, modern setting above the city. Sushi and other Japanese delicacies are on the menu, complemented by an impressive selection of drinks.

With its affordable pre-theatre menus, intimate candlelit atmosphere, and affordable prices, Prix Fixe Brasserie is a great choice for those relying on the classic “dinner and a show” package. Offering a variety of classic French dishes on both its set and à la carte menus, the romantic Soho restaurant also boasts an international wine list and warm, friendly service.

Andrew Edmunds is the most romantic restaurant in Soho, at least if you ask renowned actor Stanley Tucci. To be honest, it's hard to argue with him – set in a cosy, candlelit Georgian townhouse, Andrew Edmunds has established itself as a local hidden gem and an ideal spot for an intimate date night. The daily-changing menu features expertly crafted yet approachable European dishes, paired with an exceptional selection of fine wines.

This classic Soho restaurant has served countless couples through the years and is exactly the kind of place where you might find pooches in love sharing a plate of spaghetti in the back alley. A tastefully furnished interior with a soft, intimate ambiance provides the romantic setting, while the menu, filled with authentic Italian fare like pasta and risottos, is always a safe bet.

Noble Rot is a familiar name among the city's oenophiles, with its wine bars keeping even the most demanding wine lovers happy. They opened their second location at the former site of the iconic Gay Hussar restaurant, retaining elements of its charm while revitalising it with a fresh, modern touch. The romantic restaurant brings the intimate setting, contemporary European cuisine, and thoughtful wine pairings – you just bring your date.

Stepping into Quo Vadis is like stepping into a different time. This storied venue has seen its fair share of, ahem, love – it used to house a brothel. Now transformed into an elegant venue with beautiful stained-glass windows, it offers a serene escape from the bustling streets. The menu puts a creative take on classic British cuisine, with dishes such as the smoked eel sandwich sure to help break the ice.