It seems strange to say it, but SO|LA is the only Michelin Starred restaurant in London serving Californian-inspired cuisine.
And yes, for most people the last Californian-inspired meal that they had may well have come from a drive-through – but let’s just remember that the state is a goldmine of stunning produce, great wine, and indeed unceasing culinary creativity. And SO|LA is probably its premier exemplar here in the UK, having won 3 AA Rosettes and a Top-40 spot on the National Restaurant Awards. Oh, and that Michelin Star.
So the new tasting menu that they’re launching this month probably won’t be too shabby – and Nudge Members (+1) will be able to find out for themselves, thanks to the fact that they’re getting a tidy 50% off that tasting menu (usually £229pp) from 15th May to 30th June.
You’ll find the space itself on Dean Street in Soho, where it sits behind in a low-key, understated facade that faces both the Groucho Club and Ducksoup. In recent months, they’ve doubled in size inside with a new lounge area on the ground floor where you can start your meal with a cocktail. Then you can head upstairs to the dining room, which is all high- grain wood and pristine white linens interrupted by soft pink & cream upholstered chairs, treading a well-balanced line between being inviting & cosy, but also upscale & elegant.
The whole joint is run by chef & restaurateur Victor Garvey (whose previous restaurants Encant and Sibarita were also highly acclaimed). He’s put together a new 17-course tasting menu that’s a showcase of California’s various culinary influxes and influences – you’ll get everything from hamachi sashimi; to langoustines that are flash-flamed on volcanic rock on your table-side; ravioli with bourbon & morels; squab with Kalamata praline, artichoke & Foie Gras; pear with truffle & balsamic; and a glossy chocolate cremeux (made with 80% Red Mayan cacao) topped with caviar, caramel and crème fraîche.
There’s a parade of excellent wines to go with it all of course, most of which are from – believe it or not – California.
The state gets a lot of SO|LA power.
NOTE: SO|LA is open now, Tuesday to Saturday. The new tasting menu will launch on the 15th of May, and you can make a booking at their website right here.
Nudge Members (+1) are getting 50% off the new tasting menu (food only – usually £229pp) from 15th May to 30th June. To find out how to book, just check the Members’ Box at the top of this page.
Not yet a Nudge Member? Start a free trial here.
SO|LA | 64 Dean St, W1D 4QQ
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