Social Eating House

I just had to mention the Social Eating House as I think it's going to become a favourite. The sister restaurant to the all-star Pollen Street Social, this little place is tucked away in the heart of Soho with just a touch of mystery.

In stark contrast to Pollen Street, this Eating House is dark and decadent, and perfect for late night forays. Stepping through the heavy curtain into the buzzing ground floor, it's all prohibition chic with dark wood fittings, rich leather seats and tarnished metals (and look at the frontage above!). Greeted by very friendly barmen in buttoned-up rolled-sleeves shirts and braces, it's hard to resist the pull back in time. We were there for drinks having devoured MeatLiquor burgers earlier in the evening so pulled up stools in the restaurant and people-watched (the upstairs bar was too busy and we were too impatient to wait!).

I went for the Cereal Killer - Diplomatico Anejo rum, white chocolate, Galliano ristretto, Coco Pops milk and Xocolat bitters - which came served in a milk bottle with a candy stripe straw. A brilliantly naughty twist on everyone's favourite breakfast beverage. I followed this up with a Wi' Jam In - Appleton V/X rum, apricot jam, mint, fresh lemon juice and pimento - which came served over crushed ice in a silver beaker. With a great little kick, this was a sweet and sour concoction with an unusual payoff.

The non-alcoholic options are tasty too - M went for the Probiotic with smashed pineapple, pomegranate, grenadine, lime juice, yoghurt powder and ginger ale. Served tall, fizzy and unmistakably pink it was a nice surprise to have a soft option with a bit of flavour.

We didn't even glance at the food menu but the service was really attentive and the atmosphere was great and we would have lingered for even longer, I imagine, if it wasn't a school night.

In an area packed to the brim with places to eat and drink, it's sometimes tricky to find somewhere that hits the mark but yep, I think Jason Atherton's done it again and has created a perfect little place to call home.

Photo by Lavanstyle