Seemor

27 Old Compton StreetB?

27 Old Compton St, London W1D 5JP · The West End

A compact Soho pasta restaurant with fresh, affordable dishes and generally warm service, but timed sittings, cramped tables, and a meaningful minority of serious service complaints require careful expectations.

Why this grade

This Soho pasta bar delivers solid food quality and fast service ideal for pre-theatre dining, but inconsistent execution and cramped seating prevent a stronger grade. Flavorful pasta dishes anchor the experience, though reports of overcooking and cold plates alongside tight table spacing reduce overall reliability and comfort.

The full picture

This is a tiny, lively Soho pasta room where the first impression is usually warmth, speed, and the aroma of fresh pasta from the open kitchen. Diners often describe a cozy, intimate hideaway with friendly staff, though the compact layout can feel crowded and a few tables sit uncomfortably close to facilities. One recurring summary is essentially: "a quick, cheerful meal with the chefs working right in front of you." The cooking is classic Italian comfort food rather than experimental cuisine: fresh pasta, ragù, cacio e pepe, vodka sauce, lasagne, focaccia, and arancini. Beef ragù, truffle lasagne, vodka pasta, and the pistachio dessert generate the most enthusiasm, with prices that are comparatively accessible for Soho. Still, execution is not bulletproof; multiple detailed complaints describe hard or watery pasta, small portions, and service that can become abrupt when the room is turning tables. Families can manage here, especially with familiar choices such as beef ragù, vodka macaroni, chicken-and-mushroom pasta, focaccia, courgette fries, and vegan gnocchi. There is no dedicated children’s menu, and the one-hour-style sittings may be tiring with young children. It is better for a family wanting a quick pasta meal than for a long, relaxed celebration.

What to order here

What stands out

A few notes

Location Insights

Area vibe: Lively, nightlife- and dining-focused central district popular with creatives and visitors.

Safety: Busy and well-lit with high footfall at night though pickpocketing and noise are common; be alert late after pubs close.

What's nearby: Close to Shaftesbury Avenue theatres, Leicester Square, Chinatown, and Tottenham Court Road transport and shopping.

Frequently asked

What should I order at 27 Old Compton Street?

The beef ragù, truffle lasagne, vodka pasta, and pistachio dessert are the standout choices, with most mains priced between £12 and £16.

What should I know before going to 27 Old Compton Street?

Expect quick pre-theatre service in a cramped room, but allow for timed seating, inconsistent execution, and a meal that may feel small for the price.

What's 27 Old Compton Street like?

The open kitchen and warm atmosphere create an intimate Soho hideaway, although the tiny room can become crowded and hectic.

Opening Hours

Sunday12:00–23:00 Monday12:00–23:00 Tuesday12:00–00:00 Wednesday12:00–00:00 Thursday12:00–01:00 Friday12:00–01:00 Saturday12:00–01:00
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