Nestled in the vibrant heart of Soho, London, Dean Street Townhouse stands as a testament to sophisticated comfort and understated luxury. As an admirer of the Soho House Group ethos, known for seamlessly blending modern aesthetics with classic charm, my anticipation to experience Dean Street Townhouse was naturally high. Having previously revelled in the delights of Soho House Berlin, the allure of exploring another of their esteemed establishments, this time in my own city, was irresistible. For a special occasion, our six-year anniversary, it promised to be the perfect indulgent escape.
Babington House, another Soho House gem, had initially caught our eye. However, considering travel and the desire for a truly celebratory meal, Dean Street Townhouse emerged as the ideal choice. Described by Mr and Mrs Smith as the “sultry Soho girl about town” in contrast to Babington’s “reclusive, romantic and poetic” Somerset charm, Dean Street Townhouse resonated perfectly with our desire for a fun, vibrant, and conveniently located romantic retreat. Booking a hotel in London, our home city, added an element of delightful extravagance to the experience.
Dean Street Townhouse exterior, showcasing its elegant facade in Soho, London.
The reality surpassed our expectations. The hotel exuded an atmosphere of refined indulgence from the moment we stepped inside. Farrow and Ball paint adorned the walls, setting a tone of classic elegance, while the promise of a vast bed piled with soft pillows beckoned. The bathroom was an oasis of relaxation, stocked with fluffy white bathrobes and luxurious Cowshed products. A mini-bar, thoughtfully curated with tempting treats, completed the picture of a perfect romantic hideaway, a tranquil haven amidst the London bustle. But, as a dedicated follower of culinary experiences, the dining aspect of Dean Street Townhouse was of particular interest.
A Culinary Journey at Dean Street Townhouse Restaurant
The restaurant mirrored the chic yet relaxed ambiance of the hotel. A striking zinc-topped bar stretched across the room, juxtaposed against the crisp white tablecloths and the invitingly plush velvet armchairs. While the armchairs appeared perfect for post-dinner relaxation, we opted for a table in the main dining area, having initially been guided to a dimly lit fireside setting. Though undeniably romantic, the subdued lighting proved less conducive to menu perusal. Cocktails and lounging could certainly wait until after we had savored the culinary offerings.
The stylish dining room at Dean Street Townhouse, blending classic and modern design elements for a unique ambiance.
The menu itself was a delight, a refreshing departure from overly elaborate descriptions. It showcased classic British dishes with a contemporary twist, focusing on simple, comforting fare. Almost every item tempted my palate, except perhaps the enigmatically named “manx queenies with hedge bedstraw.” Uncertain of its composition and instinctively hesitant, I initially chose the crab salad, paired with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. However, a glimpse of a neighboring table’s scallop dish prompted a swift change of heart. Inquiring with our waiter, I learned that “Manx Queenies” were indeed queen scallops from the Isle of Man. My order was promptly amended, and I was rewarded with a plate of delicate, bite-sized scallops served in their shells, subtly seasoned with herbs and enlivened by the zesty tang of blood orange. In contrast, my partner’s twice-baked smoked haddock soufflé was a study in rich indulgence. While not visually striking, the creamy, smoky fish, enhanced by a buttery chive sauce, evoked a sense of pure comfort food bliss.
For the main course, my companion, a devoted carnivore, selected a perfectly cooked rare fillet steak, arriving beautifully bloody and tender. My choice of sea bass fillet with fennel, Poole cockles, and dill proved equally satisfying. The sea bass boasted crispy skin, flaky white flesh, and melt-in-the-mouth fennel. The cockles, while slightly gritty, were a minor issue quickly overlooked as the dish was thoroughly enjoyable.
The wine list at Dean Street Townhouse thoughtfully included a range of affordable options, available by the glass and carafe, allowing us to pair wines perfectly with our diverse meal choices. A pleasant pause after the main course provided time to converse, absorb the restaurant’s atmosphere, and anticipate the dessert menu.
Dessert proved to be a shared indulgence. We opted for the melting middle chocolate fondant with pistachio ice cream, a classic executed flawlessly. However, the standout was the hazelnut ice cream with toffee sauce. Served in a charming silver dish reminiscent of childhood ice cream treats, this grown-up version was a symphony of sweet, creamy, and nutty flavors, elevated by a jug of intensely buttery toffee sauce. Topped with rich whipped cream, it was the kind of dessert that encourages a playful race to secure the last delicious morsel.
The Perfect Romantic Escape
Concluding our evening, we retreated to our room and indulged in room-service cocktails, a final touch of decadence. It was the quintessential ending to a flawless evening. For those seeking a romantic getaway, enhanced by exceptional dining, Dean Street Townhouse is an impeccable choice. While my search for love has already concluded, my affection for Soho House experiences is undoubtedly just beginning, and Dean Street Townhouse has solidified its place as a cherished destination within their collection.
