London Soho Food Tasting Tour With Secret Food Tours

The London Soho Food Tasting Tour with Secret Food Tours offers a unique way to explore one of London’s most vibrant neighborhoods. While I haven’t personally joined this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a compelling option for anyone wanting to blend history, culture, and delicious bites into one engaging experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the intimate group size of just 10 people guarantees a personal touch and plenty of time for questions. Second, the diverse cuisines and historic sites packed into three to four hours make it both educational and tasty. Lastly, the knowledgeable guides, especially those like Anita and Tom, add a layer of authenticity and fun that elevates the experience.

A potential consideration? While the tour includes all eats and drinks, including alcohol, the price point of $139 could seem steep for some, especially if you’re on a tight budget. However, considering the variety, quality, and local insights, many find it offers excellent value.

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who love food, culture, and a bit of history—especially those who enjoy small group adventures and authentic local flavors. If you’re eager to uncover the stories behind iconic sites while tasting your way through Soho’s culinary scene, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your London visit.

This experience made our article of The 13 Most Popular Tours In London.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to just 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Diverse Food Experiences: From bao buns to croquettes and truffle arancini, the tour offers a variety of international cuisines.
• Historic and Cultural Insights: Stops include iconic landmarks like the John Snow water pump and Chinatown, adding context to your food journey.
• All-Inclusive: All food, drinks—including three historic gins—and water are included, making for a stress-free tasting experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Anita and Tom are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly approach and engaging storytelling.
• Convenient & Accessible: The tour begins at a central meeting point near public transportation and is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

An In-Depth Look at the Soho Food Tour Experience

An Overview of the Itinerary

This tour offers a carefully curated walk through some of Soho’s most iconic sites, combining history, street art, and entertainment venues, all with a focus on food and drink. It typically lasts around 3 to 4 hours, covering eight stops with plenty of opportunities to try dishes and learn about the neighborhood’s past and present.

Starting at Carnaby Street

Your adventure kicks off at 51 Carnaby Street, famous for its 1960s fashion scene. It’s a lively area with colorful shopfronts and a buzzing atmosphere. While this stop doesn’t include food, it sets the scene for Soho’s vibrant character. Here, you’ll get a quick introduction to Soho’s cultural evolution, making it easier to appreciate the neighborhood’s eclectic vibe later on.

Broadwick Street and the Spirit of Soho Mural

Next, you’ll visit Broadwick Street to admire a striking mural that reflects Soho’s artistic roots. It’s a great photo op and a reminder of Soho’s creative side. Your guide will share insights into how Soho became London’s artistic hub—something that’s made even more meaningful when you see the colorful street art.

The John Snow Water Pump

One of the most fascinating stops is the John Snow water pump on 44 Broadwick Street. This pump is linked to a pivotal moment in public health history—its discovery of cholera transmission in 1854. It’s a surprise to many that a simple street fixture is part of London’s medical story, turning a mundane landmark into a conversation starter about how cities fight disease.

The Windmill Theatre

Historically, Great Windmill Street hosted WWII nude revues, defying the social norms of the time. Now, it’s a reminder of Soho’s reputation for entertainment and daring. Though the stop doesn’t include food, it offers a sense of Soho’s lively history that you’ll carry with you as you explore further.

Soho’s Red Light District

Your guide will introduce the Red Light District, once notorious and now a bustling part of Soho’s nightlife. It’s a reminder of the neighborhood’s layered past, from its seedier days to its current status as a vibrant, multicultural entertainment zone. This honest overview enriches your understanding of the area beyond just its food.

Berwick Street Market

Time for some local flavor. Berwick Street Market has been a lively marketplace since the 18th century, offering everything from fresh produce to street snacks. It’s a perfect place to see everyday London life and pick up a snack or two. The market’s history and diversity shine through, with some reviewers noting it’s been a favorite for authentic bites.

The French House & Chinatown

Your tour continues with a visit to The French House, a pub renowned for its cultural links, having hosted artists and writers like Dylan Thomas. Then, you’ll step into Chinatown on Gerrard Street, bursting with colorful signs and tempting aromas. These stops highlight Soho’s international palate and artistic spirit, with reviewers praising the authentic atmosphere and the chance to sample Malaysian beef rendang and other Asian delicacies.

Tasting Delights

Throughout the tour, you’ll sample seven signature dishes and drinks, such as:

• King Prawn Croquettes with Seafood Aioli
• Jamon & Migas Croquettas
• Classic Italian Truffle Arancini with Fontina cheese
• Coconut Beef Rendang Curry with Roti Canai
• Fluffy BBQ Pork Bao Buns
• Our Secret Dish (a surprise treat)
• Three Historic Gins at a local bar, including a tasting of London’s famed gin scene

Food and drink are included in the ticket price, which many reviewers feel offers excellent value given the quality and variety of tastings. One guest noted, “The food was fantastic and plentiful,” while others highlighted how the guide’s stories made each bite more meaningful.

Expert Guides & Personal Touches

Guides like Anita and Tom are frequently praised for their friendliness, detailed knowledge, and ability to connect the neighborhood’s history with its current culture. Anita, for instance, adds local color and fun facts about Soho’s evolution, while Tom’s stories about food and history make the experience lively and memorable.

The Experience’s Pace & Group Size

With just ten participants, the tour feels intimate and flexible. You’re unlikely to feel rushed as guides ensure everyone gets time to enjoy each dish and ask questions. Reviewers mention how guides manage the crowds well, especially in Chinatown, which can be quite busy.

Practical Details

• Price: At $139 per person, the tour is a good investment considering the all-inclusive nature—food, drinks, and expert insights.
• Duration: About 3-4 hours makes it a manageable half-day activity, perfect for combining with other sightseeing.
• Meeting Point: Central location near public transportation at 17-18 Golden Square, easy to find.
• Physical Requirements: Moderate fitness needed; the tour involves walking and standing, but no strenuous activity.
• Dress Code: No flip-flops or full tracksuits, reflecting Soho’s stylish vibe.
• Age Restrictions: Not suitable for under 18s, as some venues don’t accept minors.
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

Authentic Reviews & Honest Feedback

Guests have raved about their guides, particularly mentioning how personable and knowledgeable guides like Anita, Tom, and Paul elevated their experience. Multiple reviews emphasize the quality of food—highlighting dishes like Malaysian beef rendang, bao buns, and croquettes—and the fun, relaxed atmosphere created by guides.

A guest shared, “Tom had us feeling right at home,” and another said, “Anita added so much fun to the experience,” illustrating the tour’s friendly and engaging vibe. Many mention leaving full, satisfied, and with a better understanding of Soho’s history and culture.

This Soho food tour is ideal for food lovers eager to taste authentic dishes from around the world. It suits those who appreciate learning about local history in a casual setting and enjoy small-group experiences for more interaction. It’s a great fit for adventurous eaters who don’t mind walking and standing, and who want to avoid the hassle of lines or figuring out where to eat.

It’s also perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with culinary discovery—especially if you enjoy stories behind landmarks like the John Snow pump or Soho’s entertainment history. Keep in mind, if you’re traveling with kids under 18 or have specific dietary restrictions, this tour might not be suitable.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Unfortunately, this tour cannot accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegan or vegetarian diets, as the menu includes dishes with eggs, dairy, and nuts.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, offering a relaxed pace with opportunities for plenty of tasting and storytelling.

Are drinks included?
Yes, all drinks—including three historic gins—are included in the price, along with water.

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

What should I wear?
Casual but neat attire is recommended—no flip-flops or full tracksuits—since some venues have dress codes.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
While the tour involves walking, it’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Be prepared for some standing and walking through busy streets.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, guests under 18 are not permitted, as some venues don’t accept minors.

Final Thoughts

The London Soho Food Tasting Tour offers a flavorful and insightful way to experience one of London’s most iconic neighborhoods. Combining historic landmarks, vibrant street scenes, and authentic international cuisine, it’s a well-rounded experience that’s both fun and educational.

The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge turn a simple walk into a lively cultural journey. Plus, the carefully curated dishes and drinks ensure you’ll leave feeling satisfied and a bit more connected to Soho’s unique character.

If you’re someone who loves discovering hidden gems through food, appreciates storytelling, and wants an intimate group setting, this tour will likely become a memorable highlight of your London trip. It’s a fantastic way to taste the city’s diversity without the stress of planning or long lines.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Travelers eager to enjoy a personalized culinary adventure in the heart of Soho will find this experience rewarding. It’s best suited for those who want an authentic taste of London’s multicultural scene combined with insights into the neighborhood’s history. The small group setting makes it ideal for social travelers who enjoy engaging guides and local stories.

Foodies, history buffs, and curious explorers alike will appreciate the blend of delicious bites, historic landmarks, and lively atmosphere. If you’re after a relaxed, fun, and informative experience that introduces you to Soho’s best-kept secrets—and leaves you full—you should definitely consider this tour.