It’s all too common these days to see people eating lunch at their desks. This is understandable, and in general a manifestation of a good thing. If you’re eating at your desk, you’re probably a hard worker, and passionate enough about what you’re doing to not want a break. However, this is increasingly believed to be unhealthy for productivity.
This study from scientificamerican.com found that physical and psychological distance from a problem improve people’s ability to think creatively and solve it faster. There are also many health benefits as shown in this article by Fit For Work to stepping away from your desk for a break during the work day.
So we’ve curated a list of five places in Soho – one for each day of the week – where you can grab a quick bite, and take your much-needed lunch break in style.
1. MY PLACE SOHO – 21 BERWICK STREET, W1F 0PZ
Perfect for the slightly adventurous foodies, My Place Soho in Berwick Street isn’t afraid to combine sweet and savoury in counterintuitive ways. Try, for example, their chorizo and pear sandwich. You might also be tempted by their Matcha latte – like a normal latte, but with green tea instead of coffee. If you’re not a fan of such ventures, never fear; My Place has several classic sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes on offer too. And with all mains under £10, you really have no reason not to give this establishment a go.
My Place Soho – 21 Berwick Street, W1F 0PZ
2. WHOLE FOODS MARKET– 20 GLASSHOUSE STREET, W1B 5AR
Whole Foods is more than just a supermarket. Treat yourself to a browse of their hot food and salad bars, and you’re guaranteed to find a satisfying lunch – especially if you enjoy a meal with variety. The food is made all the more delicious when you realise eating it supports good animal welfare: there are plenty of vegetarian options, and all meat comes from highly ethically raised animals (https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/mission-values/animal-welfare/animal-welfare-basics). They have a seating area upstairs, and an outdoor one too, which is ideal for sunny days. So you can eat comfortably, and happy in the knowledge that your choice of lunch is good for you, and the world. Certainly worth ditching the Sainsbury’s meal deal for.
Whole Foods Market – 20 Glasshouse Street, W1B 5AR
3. GOLDEN UNION FISH BAR– 38 POLAND STREET, W1F 7LY
Famous political philosopher Michael Sandel said “you can’t go wrong with fish and chips”. Given his 2012 award for “Top Global Thinker”, we’re inclined to believe him. So if you ever find yourself unsure of what you fancy, take his advice and visit the Golden Union Fish Bar. It has the style of a classic British chippie, with several different types of fish available and even has a vegetarian option of battered halloumi. In keeping with its traditional English theme, the Golden Union also has a range of pies to offer. All fish served here were caught sustainably in Britain, which is a huge bonus.
Golden Union Fish Bar – 38 Poland Street, W1F 7LY
4. BI BIM BAP – 11 GREEK STREET, W1D 4DJ
Korean food is becoming increasingly popular these days, and with good reason. If you haven’t yet tried it, you’re missing out – it can provide a food experience truly distinct from other Asian cuisines. For instance, the beef Bi Bim Bap (photo above) is a rice dish, in which a raw egg and raw strips of beef are added into a hot stone bowl, containing sautéed vegetables and rice. When the mixture is stirred, the heat of the bowl cooks the egg and the beef. This dish will stimulate your senses, and the excellent balance of protein, starch and vegetables will certainly ensure you return to your desk energised.
Bi Bim Bap – 11 Greek Street, W1D 4DJ
5. CHOCCYWOCCYDOODAH – 30-32 FOUBERTS PLACE, W1F 7PS
We’re certainly not advocating eating dessert for lunch (or are we?) but Choccywoccydoodah, star of the show by the same name, is a must-see. With a truly tantalising assortment of chocolate delights on-site, the place is simply perfect if you’re in need of a slice of cake and a hot drink. You’ll be in for a treat for the eyes, not just the tongue, as the shop has on display a truly impressive collection of sculptures made entirely of chocolate and cake. Come here for dessert, or pop by after work for an indulgent snack. After a hard day at work, you surely deserve it.
Choccywoccydoodah – 30-32 Fouberts Place, W1F 7PS
Keep an eye on our blog as we will focus on some more great places to eat and drink in Soho soon.
