L'Escargot: a French brasserie style restaurant in Soho since 1927

L'Escargot, located in the heart of Soho, London, is a French restaurant known for its longstanding tradition of fine dining. The restaurant, housed in a historic Georgian townhouse dating back to 1741, has been a fixture of London's culinary scene since 1927. It all began with its founder, M. Georges Gaudin, who introduced the English to the delicacy of snails, eventually leading to the restaurant's name change to ‘L'Escargot.’

Image: Interiors of L'Escargot restaurant Soho. October 2023. © MTotoe.

Over the years, L'Escargot has attracted notable patrons, including Coco Chanel, General de Gaulle, Elton John, and Princess Diana. It has earned recognition as the ‘Best French Restaurant in London’, and still serves up authentic French cuisine to this day.

Image: Mushroom Linguine. L'Escargot. October 2023. © MTotoe.

During our recent visit, we tried their Prix Fixe lunch menu, which offers a choice of two or three courses catering to both meat and vegetarian preferences. To start, we enjoyed a warm goat cheese tart with figs and honey—an excellent combination of flavours. The main course featured a juicy and perfectly seared steak, along with a generous portion of wild mushroom linguine, suitable for vegetarians. To round off the meal, a delicious lemon tart or sorbet is available.

Image: Juicy steak. L'Escargot restaurant, Soho. October 2023. © MTotoe.

Of course, you can't miss the signature snails, available by the half dozen or dozen, for an authentic French culinary experience in the heart of London.

L'Escargot's menu features a range of seafood options like haddock with tartar sauce, grilled halibut, and baked lobster, along with meat dishes such as roasted duck, partridge, and beef fillet. But what truly sets this restaurant apart is its dedication to traditional and attentive service, adding that special touch to the dining experience.

Image: As you dine explore the art collection at L'Escargot. Soho. October 2023. © MTotoe.

While you enjoy your meal, take a moment to explore the remarkable art collection spread across three levels of the restaurant. The art on display is not only intriguing to look at, but it also adds to the restaurant's feeling of old-school elegance. 

L'Escargot's unique combination of great food, history, and art definitely solidifies its status as a beloved Soho establishment.

Location: 48 Greek St, London W1D 4EF. Website: lescargot.co.uk. Instagram: @lescargotsoho.