The French House in London
49 Dean St, London W1D 5BG, United Kingdom
About
NEW RESTAURANT OPENING HOURS Monday - Saturday Lunch Sitting 12.00 to 15.00 Dinner Sitting 18.00 to 21.00 Closed Sunday’s The French House is a historic pub in Soho, known for being the watering hole of thespians and artists. The pub operates downstairs, while the restaurant, headed by chef Neil Borthwick, is located upstairs. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, Monday to Saturday.
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Brilliant staff in the restaurant. Warm, knowledgeable and definitely do not take themselves too seriously. A peaceful nook in the heart of the whirling dervish Soho. The downstairs bar is also my favourite pub in London, where there is always a random chat to be had. Even the guy keeping the drinkers outside to within the pub boundary (mostly, one girl lent a bit too hard on the barrier and did an Oscar Wilde into the gutter, but somehow managed to not spill her drink) was a gem of a man.
Visited for lunch with my wife today. Food was absolutely fantastic (highly recommend the pork chop and crumble!), service excellent, and lovely atmosphere in a small restaurant area. Can’t wait to come back!
Very busy pub any time of day, especially on weekends. It’s a popular spot in Soho, and I love that everything is served by the half pint. The bar itself is quite small, so finding a seat can be tough, but standing outside is an option if it's packed.
The buttery calves brains mopped up with a slice of baguette was sublime; each bite a custardy cloud of heaven. Gorgeous food and an experience I’ll remember for years to come.
A bit reluctant before booking as I was afraid it would be mostly hype over substance. But no! Very cosy, warm and friendly atmosphere. Short and dense menu with several specials all made with very good ingredients and a lot of care. Relaxed atmosphere and never felt that someone was rushing us out. Service friendly and was not pushing too much to upsell. Had to book 2 weeks in advance for lunch so keep that in mind please
Worth the hype. The goats cheese & garlic on sourdough was incredible. Don’t miss out on the made to order Madeline’s. Service, food and atmosphere was spot on.
The French House 📍49 Dean St, London W1D 5BG 🚇 Leicester Square 🍺 £3.50 French House Lager (1/2) A Soho Institution. The French House is located on Dean Street in Soho just off Shaftesbury Avenue. The nearest Tube is Leicester Square, it’s a five minute walk to get here. This Historic pub was built in 1891 and was originally called The York Minster. The pub was run between 1914-1989 by the same family who originated from Belgium. This pub is famous for being the unofficial headquarters of the Free French in World War II. The name was changed to the French House in 1984 following a fire. One thing you need to know before visiting, is that the beer is served in half-pints only. This rule is relaxed every year on 1st April when pints are made available. In recent years it has become custom that @suggsofficial serves the first pint of the day. The footprint of this pub is compact and bijou. The bar area wraps around the servery with a cosy snug located on the left. Around the ox blood red and wood panelled walls are a number of interesting prints, artworks and photos by Soho based creatives. There are stools around the bar, drinking ledges and traditional furniture in the snug. The beer selection is minimal and diverse. I decided on a French House Lager, my beer was decent, price point was West End. I mentioned that the beer was served by the half but you can buy a half a gallon for £28, but I wasn’t that thirsty. Upstairs is the pub’s well renowned restaurant. This intimate venue serves traditional cuisine from a menu that changes daily. Every Thursday, The French House serves the ever popular steak frites. Every time I visit here it’s always absolutely packed with a wonderful convivial atmosphere. The clientele is a mix of punters from all walks of life and backgrounds. I have often found myself talking to interesting people that I’ve never met before. The best time to visit is between 2pm and 4pm when local characters pop in for a chat and a beverage. I can’t speak highly enough about this special Soho institution. The @frenchhousesoho , an absolute must visit London Pub. ℹ️ Info correct on visiting 21.02.24
All the wonderful things about fine dining and none of the stuffiness. A beautiful, cozy space tucked upstairs. Despite being in the middle of busy Soho, nothing felt rushed. Friendly and witty service. Great wine. And the food was perfection. Don’t skip the made-to-order madeleines! Will definitely be returning!
Little gem in the heart of Soho. Awesome if you can get in.
Simply magnificent in every respect - food service and atmosphere Definitely try the scallops Food
Legendary bohemian boozer in Soho, you never know who you might bump into, super little pub so youll likely bump into everyone, only serve halves! Love it.
Always amazing, Terry looked after us so well in the restaurant - lovely warm hospitality across the board.
What a boozer. Great fun
Lovely little bar with great vibes. Recommend the Breton cider
Lovely lady behind the bar with amazing green eyeliner! Very friendly and lovely atmosphere.
A great place to eat and drink good beers.
The brill (xmas lunch, vibe) was especially good. Very friendly and helpful service, in a great space.
Old school, grab a half pint and stand outside. A bit of everything, locals, regulars, and tourists.
The French House is a historic pub and restaurant in Soho, London, known for its bohemian atmosphere and rich history. Originally opened in 1891 under the name York Minster, but was informally called the French pub by its regulars. The name was officially changed to The French House after a fire in York Minster in 1984.
Excellent proper old pub where people go to have a drink, chat, debate and put the world to rights, no phones, TV, jukebox, restaurant, var food, (next time ) etc.. iconic and historic with Meteor French lager on draught (first visit for this reason) and only 1/2 pints served...Marvellous Parking: On Dean Street in Soho so imagine NO parking.... Kid-friendliness: More of a grown up crowd and vibe.... Wheelchair accessibility: Tight and compact....
Fantastic as always. Oysters on point and Ribeye perfectly cooked.
A soho institution !
Ooohhh this place is da spot when ya wanna stand out in da street and be cool, obviously
Impossible to get a response via phone or email!
The staff were abhorrently rude, and incredibly miserable. I have never experienced such foul service, every singe person was horrible, would avoid like the plague, they need an attitude check
Rustic, solid pub
Wonderful. Really great menu, went with the confit garlic starter after seeing great reviews and did not regret it. Lovely hearty mains and the Madeleines were incredible. Fab service to top it off.
Cosy environment, delicious food, kind staff. Party of 5, we had appetisers, mains and desserts. A great evening
Service first - perfect. The guys were so friendly and helpful, whilst being obviously expert in their field. The dining room was the perfect size for two people to look after, so it wasn t chaotic, but equally not overly fussy. Food next - just as perfect. Nice simple menu, done brilliantly. Confit garlic was yummy and reasonably priced (must try to replicate at home!) Med-rare steak cooked perfectly and was delicious. Madeleine were the best I have ever had, anywhere!! I could go on but you get the message. Go!
An institution. Excellent wines. Good vibes.
Always great atmosphere and wine
Proper pub with a twist, not only in the food and the drinks but in the atmosphere and staff and customers. A hidden(in plain sight) gem.
Love this pub, really buzzing atmosphere with friendly staff. A must visit if you re in the area
Only do half pints, wouldn t recommend
Theres few places like this left. So small you are forced into conversation with the whole crazy world from gay actors to fashion students and the homeless. Manager nice guy, easy going. The night before rather woke landlady of the Coach and Horses told me I was too exuberant. Go its a great boozer.
Have to be honest and say this was okay, but no more than that. I like the idea of sticking to French traditions and serving only demis, but would have been better to have had this in a demi glass rather than a half pint glass. Very busy, touristy with an okay range of beers.
I went in the afternoon with a friend for a couple of drinks, nice place but no music at all, I wish they had a background ( French?) music so would make a better experience.
Great pub
An institution!
Had the most amazing meal last night, celebrating my daughters masters. So well looked after and head chef Neil signed a copy of the menu congratulating my daughter. Very special place. Will be back again soon. 10/10
Guinness in a glass is a cardinal sin, the company was exquisite, I survived
Favourite pub in London. Love the history behind it, its very relaxed and genuinely is a public house. 2 rules to follow: 1 Half pints only 2 no phones, be social aha
My absolute favourite pub in London. Hands down the best - especially in Soho. It s a classic and has added some great beers recently!!!
The French House is an absolute must every time I come to London. I love that they write out their menus daily and offer amazing specials. The staff is lovely, and really connects with their guests to make sure the whole experience is great. This is a place where you can truly indulge and go all out.
A gem in Soho
A busy place with an eclectic clientele- great service and worth a visit.
Definitely a gem in central London! Love that they have seasonal specials everyday. And the madeleines were the highlight!
This is such an iconic venue Ive been coming here for about 40 years. Its become a bit more commercialised over the years. Some of the staff today looked a bit jaded. Still love it though. Great cider: )
Its been a few years since I last ate here and it was a relief to see not much has changed upstairs during my absence. The decor is still reassuringly old school, there are still the dozen or so small vintage tables, the narrow bar at the back of the dining room was still present and the walls are still adorned with black and white photos of local Soho legends and patrons from the past and present. The atmosphere is cozy and carefree and front of house staff make you feel like you are friends dining in their own kitchen. Unlike like many other eateries in Soho that have got a bit drunk on their own self importance The French House is the perfect anecdote for a relaxed no rush meal. The cooking was suitably earthy and no nonsense with a menu boasting both classics and offbeat fare ably backed up with thoughtful wine list. A perfect afternoon lunch away from the chaos of street outside.
very busy tight wee gaff , no waiting for drinks and people very friendly nice few drinks here
Love this place and its history and only place to get cidre Breton... Nice authentic place to go for a drink
Very quirky little bar that only serves half pints and upstairs restaurant was phenomenal the food was just fantastic must try the Madeline s for pudding. Such a gem in the middle of soho
The French House. 110% Soho. Weekday late afternoon. Good ambience as always.
The heart of Bohemian Soho
Lovely food, intimate setting, highly recommended. And the madeleines...omg!
One of Sohos finest
one of my friends said the French resistance worked out of here so we mainly come here now and then if we are ever in central london for the vibes hehe. I must warn you, this place is SO PACKED all the time youre either squeezed in between people or standing outside. So keep that in mind!
The French House is one of my favourite bars. I have the best conversations with random strangers every time I go here. It is a Soho Institution!
Really busy but loved it
Overrun Soho pub
Nice pub, not cheap and gets very busy.
Small intimate french restaurant above a quirky soho pub. Menu changes each day. Have eaten there twice and both times the food was excellent. Save room for dessert. Only criticism is that wine is a bit pricey, even for London . Cheapest red £50 ( very nice but not really worth the money)
I do love this pub but it seems so does everyone else lol. Ive never seen it anything but overflowing with customers. Still I do think it is worth it. Im sure Ill be back.
Robbing tourist trap. Only halves yeah loool
Just everything you need for a perfect lunch. Wonderful attentive service. Fabulous food. Lovely relaxed atmosphere. Highly recommend
Delicious and great service from the lady and the gentleman. Must visit spot in London
This pub is steeped in history been coming here since the early 80s
Superb, one of the best meals I ve had in London. Leo was exceptional
Simply stupendous. You have to get the Madelines
Great atmosphere
Terrible service!! Never again!! London deserves better than this!
Came for drinks. Love this place. Staff are fabulous and the place is full of characters. Yes, it s busy and you might have to wait to get served, but it s worth it. Barman with the beard made our evening. True gem.
Great boozer
We only went for a few drinks, a lovely friendly atmosphere and very quick service. The quirky thing is they only serve all their beer in half-pint measures.
Always fun.
Had a lovely meal here during a recent visit to London. The restaurant itself is small but really atmospheric. The menu choices were mostly classical French and we both chose to have fish for our mains following some delicious dressed oysters for starters. My red mullet was excellent - thick and meaty with beautiful crisp skin. We ended our meal by sharing a Paris Brest dessert. Not the cheapest meal in the world but the quality of food and service made it worth it.
Legendary pub, always busy and bustling but lets be honest thats what youre coming for.
great bar where you can have great conversations about Culture... good staff..
Quaint little place Tiny inside Service
Amazing food and amazing service. I highly recommend this place
Fantastic food and service. The madeleines were epic; worth the 15 minutes wait.
My best place to eat in London. The waiting staff are as lovely as the food. I travel from Yorkshire to eat here each year and love it. Service
very dirty place
Very special. Good karma
Lovely team, legendary location, exquisite food.
A bit of a gem. Away from the chaos of the busy pub downstairs is an oasis of calm and fine food. Try and get the window table!
Delicious food in an intimate and cosy setting. The menu changes frequently, and you can tell it is made with passion and care. Most definitely recommend the melt in your mouth madeleines, cooked to order. The whole evening is a treat! Food
Great beer in a cosy old small pub with great friendly bar staff!
A regular stop off for me while in soho in the 80s & 90s for a quick half. It hasnt changed a bit, still full of soho characters
It s a great French House
I always love it in here, a delightful pub with real character. If anyone ever changes this they deserve to burn in hell. Very busy as usual but somehow they had crammed 5 people behind the bar so there was no real wait. Hands off the Benedictine, thats mine! Service
Great, friendly atmosphere in the heart of Soho, dont expect lots of seats if thats youre thing, attentive and friendly bar staff. Pints by the half though!
Very poor service and over priced pints
Pompous, stuffy and outdated. It s a desperate attempt to recreate the old French attitude towards drink but undercut by a disinterested English bar staff. Retain your ancient charm but move with the ages. Get pint glasses for one.
Love this place always amazing people, little jewel in the heart of soho I never went for food only the bar .
Place is packed, which signifies the great ambience, food and vibe.. Recommended!
Classic bistro cooking. Sensibly priced wines. Great waiting staff and laid back atmosphere in a bright airy dining room above Soho.
Friendly cosy pub.
Good pub in Soho. Saturday night it was so busy and buzzy. Lively to say the least. Outside in the streets you can smoke and enjoy watching people. Seats inside and loos downstairs (clean).
I love the french house and always has a good atmosphere but its way busier now with lots of tourists and £6 for a half a guinness? What happened. I always enjoy a pernod in there. Parking: Soho area is difficult to park Wheelchair accessibility: Difficult
A charming place steeped in history. Its been extremely busy each time Ive visited which means I havent been able to soak up the atmosphere as much as Id like. Would love to come back and try the restaurant upstairs!
Lovely pub in heart of London
Where Sylvia Plath signed her poetry collection contract
Cant rate the food as we didnt have any! Busy (there around 5pm), nice atmosphere be prepared to stand, excellent service from the bar!
Small, cramped, crowded. Pleasant enough atmosphere, but there arent enough stools.
Being a bit of a fan of Dylan Thomas, I seek out his haunts . This was one of his favourites in London. The history of this bar is a really worthwhile read on Google.
I had the dover sole which was superb. A bottle or two of light red (my lunch guest was having steak) and the world felt alright again. A lovely intimate place. I ll be coming back. Highly recommended.
Beautiful pub!
Shh.. dont tell anyone xx
Very cosy.
The French is The French. Just the name of a house larger warrants a pit stop. Meteor. From France. Quite a drink! The French never disappoints you, it s a steady service with an excellent selection of drinks. HB (Ash-Beh) is there, which is a massive plus. The crowd is undergoing a change with the times, less of acting professionals and more random beautiful people! Love you All! Xxxxxx
Busy for a Tuesday, eclectic bunch of patrons, liked it, no real ales though #12 #26
alright
Would give 6 if possible. The only thing better than the knock-out food was the service. The French guy serving us in the restaurant was an absolute legend
Amazing food! The fish and steak were delicious. Desert as well!
Horribly overpriced, grotty bar and grubby. We didn t eat here, probably couldn t afford to.? The three glasses of wine we had were £48 !! so heaven knows what the food cost ?ridiculous prices pity the unsuspecting tourists who ll get rinsed here..!
Buzzy Soho bar with very decently priced drinks
It never lets you down.
The epitome of Soho. If you know, you know.
The best cider around Soho
Best pub in Soho
Incomparable! Special! Long live!
Great pub in the heart of Soho. Great atmosphere.
Loved my solo dinner date here. Good, French brasserie style food. Can be funny eating out on your own sometimes, but the staff made me feel more than welcome - they made it fun.
Always brilliant fun and great atmosphere.
Came with my (French) mother and we enjoyed excellent food and even more excellent service from Gentiana. Will definitely be back
Didn t get food but good atmosphere and great drinks, very crowded but fun.
We loved the welcome at the restaurant. We had a reservation but were very late and the couple found a place for us despite a complicated situation. Very charming authentic people to serve. The restaurant is very cosy but quite small. My son, husband and I enjoyed an intime and very lovely evening especially thanks to the nice women that served.
Tremendous atmosphere! Definitely worth the standing room only.
Favourite Pub in Soho. The staff are always lovely and my go for chilled London.
Brilliant atmosphere, friendly staff and an interesting selection of drinks. It s often standing room only, but don t let that put you off!
Quirky tiny one sidedbar only serving half pints! Look out fir the characterchers that adorned the walls. Some are staff! Unusual, popular drinker Service : 4/5
Nice bar in the middle of all the hustle and bustle, many famous British people stop here, one of the few places where they serve a small beer as standard.
Google doesnt seem to have the capacity to list multiple opening hours if a business has separate sections on the premises . The hours advertised here are for their upstairs restaurant. The pub is open daily from noon, as per their Instagram.
Whats not to love? Perfect.
I am not worthy of reviewing this cultural icon.
If you like your beer in half pints this is the place for you
Great little pub , brilliant atmosphere , serves only halfs of ale and great selection of wine
Beautiful French bistro/restaurant, staff were extremely friendly! Rotating menu of classical french dishes, steak was superb! The chef came out and had a chat and told us his favourites and gave some background on the restaurant, was an amazing experience!
A truly wonderful spot in the heart of London. Classic food and great wine! Reserve early as a very intimate space.
