A Soho Serendipity: Finding Culinary Gold After a Record Hunt
It was a Sunday afternoon in November. As CityNomix, your guide to urban cultures, I was engrossed in my usual pastime: digging for vinyl records in London’s vibrant Soho district. Time slipped away, and before I knew it, it was 2:30 PM, well past lunchtime. Hunger pangs struck. Then, a name popped into my head: Pierre Victoire Soho. I’d passed by this bustling spot before, its lively crowd always catching my eye. Perhaps at this late hour…?
Soho is a treasure trove of new excitements and discoveries. However, finding an Affordable French Restaurant Soho London felt like unearthing a hidden gem. With anticipation bubbling, I pushed open the door.
A Late Lunch, A Warm Welcome
“A table for one, please?” I asked. “Of course!” came the cheerful reply. I was shown to a seat near the entrance. The main lunch rush had subsided, yet the restaurant was still buzzing with a pleasant, calm energy. First things first: a beer to quench my thirst. It was a perfect moment to soak in the Soho vibe while catching my breath.
Being welcomed so warmly even at this off-peak hour is a delightful touch for both tourists and locals. It makes Pierre Victoire an excellent choice for a meal amidst your best things to do in London.
The £18.90 Feast: A Two-Course Revelation
The menu presented a delightful surprise: a two-course meal for just £18.90. Diners can choose an appetizer and a main, or a main and a dessert, from an extensive list. However, as it was significantly past the typical lunch period, a few items were unfortunately unavailable. “What to choose, what to choose…” I mused. Then, one particular dish caught my attention.
A Little Menu Drama
“Fried Calamari.” Since I was having a beer, it seemed like a classic, can’t-go-wrong option. That was one decision made. For the second course, I craved something meaty and opted for the “Pork.” Little did I know, these choices would lead to an unforgettable culinary experience.
First Act: The Calamari That Redefined Perfection
Shortly after ordering, the fried calamari arrived. Visually, it was unpretentious, with the batter appearing slightly loose. If I’m honest, a fleeting thought of “Is this going to be okay?” crossed my mind. But that thought vanished the moment I took a bite.
Beyond Appearances: Unbelievably Tender, Perfectly Seasoned
“W-what is this?!” The calamari was so tender, it barely felt like calamari. It was warm, and the batter was perfectly crispy. The seasoning was spot-on, enhancing the natural sweetness of the squid. Without a doubt, this was the best fried calamari I had ever tasted. I could declare it with absolute certainty.
The Rich, Dark Allure of Squid Ink Sauce
What surprised me further was the accompanying black sauce – presumably a squid ink sauce. It was incredibly rich. The calamari was already delicious with its simple salt seasoning, but this sauce added another layer of depth, making my beer go down even more smoothly. “Excuse me, another beer, please!” The words escaped me effortlessly.
Main Course Marvel: Pork, Reimagined
As I savored the lingering taste of the calamari, the main course – the pork – was served. And again, it was a visual surprise, completely different from any pork steak I’d envisioned. It was cut into a rectangular shape, the surface beautifully browned. Was this the skin? The accompanying sauce, too, was unlike anything I’d seen before, truly original.
Crispy Skin, Succulent Meat, and a Refreshing Sauce: A Symphony of Flavors
I started with a bite of the crispy skin. A delightful crunchiness filled my mouth. The meat underneath was unbelievably juicy. The sauce, belying its appearance, was light and refreshing. The combination of crispy skin, succulent meat, and zesty sauce created a perfect harmony on the palate. It was another dish that made me groan with pleasure. The Pierre Victoire Soho review in my mind was already glowing.
A Taste of Local Life: Why Londoners Love This Soho Gem
These two incredible dishes cost only £18.90. Frankly, it felt too cheap. To offer this level of cuisine at such a price is no small feat. Moreover, the menu isn’t limited; it’s extensive. This is undoubtedly a testament to the chef’s skill and profound understanding of ingredients. It’s no exaggeration to call this one of the best cheap eats Soho London has to offer, especially for French cuisine. It’s a true value French meal London can be proud of.
The Comforting Buzz of Local Chatter
Looking around, I saw many local Londoners enjoying their late Sunday lunch. “How’s work?” “Family well?” “Who have you seen lately?” Such casual, everyday conversations drifted from the surrounding tables. People were ordering à la carte, opening bottles of wine, each group enjoying their time. This is the essence of a beloved Soho London local restaurant, a true hidden gem.
A Testament to its Popularity: A Constantly Full House
Throughout my meal, a steady stream of customers continued to arrive. Soon, all the tables were occupied, and even the outdoor terrace seating was full, despite it being November. It felt impolite to linger too long. Content and satisfied, I settled the bill and left.
Why Pierre Victoire Soho is a Must-Visit for Foodies
“I will definitely be back.” That was the heartfelt sentiment as I departed. For anyone searching for an affordable and delicious lunch in London, or for any foodie wanting to enjoy authentic French cuisine without breaking the bank, I wholeheartedly recommend Pierre Victoire Soho. To find such a heartwarming and delicious experience in the exciting Soho area was a truly pleasant surprise. This place is a highlight for anyone interested in London food blog French cuisine.
The quality and experience at this price point are truly exceptional. Delicious food is an essential part of any London visit, and Pierre Victoire Soho will not just meet but far exceed your expectations.
CityNomix’s Take: What’s Next on My Pierre Victoire List?
The two dishes I had were so outstanding that my curiosity about the rest of the menu is insatiable. Next time, I want to try some of the dishes that were unavailable or perhaps a completely different two-course combination. I imagine the evening ambiance is just as wonderful. Enjoying a leisurely dinner with a bottle of wine – that’s something to look forward to on my next visit.
Essential Information & Tips for Your Visit
Restaurant Name: Pierre Victoire Soho
Location: Centrally located in London’s Soho district, making it easily accessible. Check the Google Map below for the exact location.
Reservations: As it’s a popular spot, booking is highly recommended, especially for weekends and dinner. You can easily book via OpenTable through their official website.
Official Website: http://www.pierrevictoire.com/london/restaurant/menus.asp
Tips for Your Visit: If you arrive late for lunch, as I did, your menu choices might be limited. To choose from the full, extensive menu, it’s best to visit during standard lunch hours (around 12 PM – 2 PM). Nevertheless, even at a later time, you’ll receive a warm welcome and a thoroughly satisfying experience.
To all foodies visiting London, when you’re in Soho, make sure to experience the unforgettable culinary delights at Pierre Victoire Soho! You won’t regret it.