SOLA: A Michelin-Starred Surprise Among Good Lunch Spots in London
Jun 08, 2025
When it comes to finding good lunch spots in London, the city offers an overwhelming range of choices. From street food markets and cosy cafés to high-end restaurants, there’s something for every taste and budget. But for those looking to elevate their lunchtime plans without diving into an overly formal experience, SOLA in Soho is a true hidden gem — and a Michelin-starred one at that.
Located in one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, SOLA manages to deliver the sophistication of fine dining with the ease and charm of a midday escape.
A Refined Yet Relaxed Midday Experience
Soho is known for its eclectic mix of eateries, but few lunch spots manage to strike the perfect balance between culinary excellence and relaxed ambience quite like SOLA. As a Michelin-starred restaurant, SOLA offers a level of precision, artistry, and service that sets it apart — yet it does so without the stiffness that often accompanies formal fine dining.
Step inside the intimate dining room on Dean Street and you’re met with a calm, stylish space. The atmosphere is refined but not pretentious, ideal for a business lunch, a quiet celebration, or even a solo meal if you’re in the mood for something special.
Californian Cuisine with a London Twist
What makes SOLA truly unique among London lunch spots is its modern Californian-inspired tasting menu. Chef Patron Victor Garvey draws influence from the light, vibrant flavours of California’s Pacific Coast, infusing the menu with global touches and a strong focus on seasonality and sustainability.
Dishes are beautifully plated and offer bold but balanced flavours — often pairing ingredients in ways that feel both exciting and accessible.
Tasting Menu Lunch That Won’t Disrupt Your Day
While many Michelin-starred venues reserve their tasting menus for the evening, SOLA’s lunchtime offering is designed for those who want something elegant and efficient. The multi-course lunch menu is thoughtfully paced and allows diners to indulge without committing their entire afternoon. It’s perfect for those with plans later in the day — whether you’re heading back to the office, catching a matinee, or continuing your city adventure.
For a relatively modest price by Michelin standards, guests enjoy a beautifully executed sequence of dishes that offer a window into the restaurant’s culinary philosophy — all in under two hours.
An Impressive Wine List, Even at Lunchtime
No good lunch spot is complete without a well-curated drinks list, and SOLA goes a step further. The wine list focuses heavily on North American, particularly from California, making it a standout for wine lovers looking to explore something different.
The staff are friendly, highly knowledgeable, and more than happy to guide you through the options if you’re unsure where to begin.
Why SOLA Should Be on Your Lunch Radar
There are plenty of places to grab lunch in London, but very few offer the kind of culinary quality and overall experience that SOLA provides — especially during the day. It’s a place that makes even a casual Tuesday feel like an occasion, delivering Michelin-starred excellence in a setting that is intimate, stylish, and surprisingly accessible.
Whether you’re a Londoner seeking something new or a visitor looking for a truly memorable meal, SOLA belongs at the top of your list of good lunch spots in London.
Curious to try it for yourself?
Visit www.solasoho.com to view the current lunch menu and book your table. Your next great London lunch awaits — and it comes with a Michelin star.
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