A charming, lively Soho French bistro with strong breakfast, classic dishes and live music, but highly variable service, security interactions and discretionary-charge complaints warrant caution.
Cafe Boheme delivers solid food quality anchored by praised breakfast dishes and classic French bistro fare, but inconsistent execution across visits prevents a stronger grade. Polarized service reports and notably slow drink service undercut the appeal, though the Soho location and live music create genuine destination charm that keeps the experience worthwhile.
Cafe Boheme is a lively Old Compton Street institution where Soho theatre traffic, Parisian styling and live music create a setting that can feel like “a little holiday in France.” The location opposite the Prince Edward Theatre is a genuine asset, and many guests describe warm, attentive visits—especially at breakfast and on well-run dinner occasions. The food is classic French bistro cooking rather than boundary-pushing cuisine: French toast, onion soup, steak tartare, croque monsieur, moules and steak with frites are the natural choices. Breakfast appears to offer the safest value, while cocktails, charcuterie and some service-charge-affected drinks visits draw sharper criticism. The main caveat is operational consistency: detailed reviews range from excellent hospitality to long waits, missed orders and confrontational management interactions. Families can find approachable choices including French toast, eggs, croque monsieur, chicken with frites, the plant-based cheeseburger and simple sides, with vegan and vegetarian options clearly listed. It is family-compatible in food terms, but the lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere and late-night security presence may make daytime breakfast or an early meal the more comfortable choice.
Area vibe: Lively, nightlife and dining-focused area with a long history of music and LGBTQ+ culture.
Safety: Generally busy and well-lit in evenings though pickpocketing and noisy crowds are common; stay aware late at night.
What's nearby: Close to Leicester Square, Shaftesbury Avenue theatres, Piccadilly Circus, and dense restaurant and bar streets like Old Compton Street.
Start with the French toast or onion soup, then choose between classic French mains such as bavette, moules, or a plant-based cheeseburger.
Expect a lively but unpredictable visit, with variable service, possible noise, and a 13.5% service charge to check before paying.
Cafe Boheme pairs Parisian styling and live music with a theatrical Soho setting, although the energy can get noisy.