Lively modern Indian small-plates spot in Soho delivering bold flavors and great bar seating, with high value lunch thalis and occasional service and crowding hiccups.
Kricket Soho delivers bold, inventive modern Indian cooking with attentive service guidance that elevates the experience, earning solid A-grade standing. The prime Soho location and open-kitchen counter seating create genuine appeal, though tight quarters and bench seating prevent the full comfort needed for grade A territory. Consistency shows occasional dips, and the high-energy format suits adventurous diners more than those seeking relaxed dining.
Kricket Soho hums with buzzy open-kitchen energy, all bar stools, shared tables, and plates flying out in rhythm. A diner summed it up: "Service guided us perfectly, and every dish felt dialed in." It is the kind of spot where you watch the team move like a brigade and the room keeps a cheerful pulse. The cooking leans inventive modern Indian rather than purist, with playful twists like samphire pakoras and coconut-rich curries that still feel grounded. Crowd favorites include Keralan fried chicken, chicken gassi, and a rich dal; the £20 thali draws raves for flavor and value. Portions are designed for sharing, so expect to order a few plates rather than one big main. Families do fine here if kids are adventurous. Fried chicken, naan, dal, rice, and milder curries are kid-accessible picks. There is no dedicated kids menu, but the menu has several simple, familiar options; be mindful that the space can be tight and lively.
Area vibe: Dense, buzzy West End hub with theaters, bars, and late-night energy; popular with date nights and pre-theatre diners.
Safety: Well-trafficked entertainment district; busy but generally safe with typical urban pickpocket awareness.
What's nearby: Steps from Piccadilly Circus, Criterion Theatre, and numerous bars; ideal for pre- and post-show dining.
Go for samphire pakoras, Keralan fried chicken and the £20 thali to taste Kricket's strengths.
Casual dress and a reservation help, because the tight, bench-seated room fills up and gets noisy after 9pm.
Expect a buzzy, dimly lit Soho spot with open-kitchen counter seating and theatrical energy.