A Soho stalwart since 2009, Polpo helped introduce London's diners to the simple pleasures of Venetian bacari-style eating. Located on Beak Street in the heart of the West End, the restaurant remains a popular destination for relaxed all-day dining, whether you're stopping by for a quick bite, a pre-theatre meal or a leisurely dinner with friends.
Inspired by the informal wine bars of Venice, Polpo centres its offering around sharing plates designed to be enjoyed communally. The menu celebrates the bold, unfussy flavours of northern Italian cooking, with a selection of cicchetti-style snacks, seasonal small plates and larger dishes. Ingredients are carefully sourced, and the menu evolves seasonally throughout the year.
The interiors channel the charm of a traditional Venetian eatery, combining rustic finishes with a warm, softly lit dining room. Clad in shades of clay and dusty pink, the dining room’s vintage seating, closely-packed tables and draped pendant lamps conjure a lively atmosphere.
As with any Venetian-inspired restaurant, drinks play an important role. Guests can begin with a classic Italian aperitivo, while the wine list focuses on approachable bottles selected to pair easily with the food. Cocktails and low-intervention options also feature, reflecting the restaurant's easy-going approach to dining and drinking.
The menu encourages exploration, with diners typically ordering a variety of dishes to share. Alongside signature Venetian-style snacks and seasonal specialities, expect fresh pasta, vegetable dishes, freshly-baked pizzettes, and simple, regional desserts.
More than a decade after opening its doors, Polpo remains one of Soho's most enduring Italian restaurants, offering a taste of Venice in central London through simple cooking, quality ingredients and an atmosphere that prioritises good food and good company.