La Bodega Negra: Soho's Provocative Mexican Dining Experience
Step into Soho’s edgy Mexican hotspot where provocative decor meets fiery flavors and a world-class agave bar in a cinematic underground setting.
La Bodega Negra in Soho, London, is a provocative Mexican restaurant famed for its immersive underground dining space hidden behind a sex shop facade. It offers a moody, gothic atmosphere with flickering candlelight, wrought iron decor, and a cinematic vibe. The menu features modern Mexican dishes with exotic, fresh, and fiery flavors, complemented by an extensive agave bar with over 50 tequilas and 20 mezcals. Upstairs, a casual café serves street food and cocktails, making it a versatile hotspot for vibrant social dining.
A brief summary to La Bodega Negra Restaurant
- 9 Old Compton St, London, W1D 5JF, GB
- +442045801186
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5:30 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 5:30 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 5:30 pm-12 am
- Thursday 5:30 pm-1 am
- Friday 5:30 pm-1 am
- Saturday 5:30 pm-1 am
- Sunday 5:30 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Book your table in advance for the downstairs dining room to secure a spot in the exclusive, atmospheric basement.
- Try the signature black truffle mole quesadilla and explore the extensive tequila and mezcal selection with guidance from the agave sommelier.
- For a more casual experience, visit the upstairs café and taqueria, which offers street food and cocktails with an outside terrace.
- Prepare for loud music and a lively atmosphere—ideal for socializing but less suited for quiet conversations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
La Bodega Negra Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about La Bodega Negra Restaurant
A Hidden Gem with a Bold Entrance
Nestled in the heart of Soho, La Bodega Negra presents a striking first impression with its sex shop facade, complete with luminous signage and provocative window displays. This daring exterior belies the sophisticated dining experience inside, where guests descend into a dark, moody basement that evokes the atmosphere of Mexico City's underground clubs. The space is richly decorated with gothic caves, wrought iron details, and flickering candles, creating an intimate and mysterious setting that feels both opulent and raw.Culinary Innovation Meets Mexican Tradition
Under the guidance of head chef Gustavo Giallonardo, the restaurant offers a modern take on Mexican cuisine, blending fresh, seasonal ingredients with exotic and fiery flavors. Signature dishes include scallop tiradito with serrano and aguachile, taco al pastor with pineapple pico de gallo, and a unique black truffle mole quesadilla that fuses chili, sesame, peanuts, chocolate, and truffle into a complex flavor profile. The menu also features tender roasted meats, seafood, and inventive sharing plates designed to be both seductive and fun.The Agave Bar Experience
La Bodega Negra boasts one of London's finest agave bars, with a remarkable selection of over 50 tequilas and 20 mezcals. The bar is staffed by a dedicated agave sommelier who educates and guides diners through the diverse flavor profiles and cultural heritage of these spirits. Notable cocktails include the Pepino, blending Ojo de Dios mezcal with pineapple juice and fresh chili, and the Mezcalita, served with worm salt. The signature Horchata con Ron combines homemade horchata with spiced rum for a uniquely sweet finish.Upstairs Café and Taqueria
For a more casual experience, the upstairs café offers a vibrant space serving contemporary Mexican street food and fruity cocktails. This area features an outside terrace and a ceviche bar where guests can watch chefs in action. The café's menu is a playground for culinary creativity, with smaller, experimental dishes that complement the more formal dining downstairs. This dual concept allows La Bodega Negra to cater to both quick bites and immersive dinners.Atmosphere and Social Scene
The restaurant is known for its lively, glamorous crowd and buzzing social atmosphere. The music is energetic, often loud, contributing to a nightclub vibe that encourages mingling and celebration. The staff are described as charming, attentive, and engaging, enhancing the overall experience despite occasional critiques about noise levels and portion sizes. The venue’s unique blend of dining and nightlife makes it a hotspot for those seeking a memorable night out in Soho.Considerations and Visitor Insights
While the ambiance and cocktail selection receive high praise, some diners note that food portions can be small and prices on the higher side. Communication can be challenging due to the loud music, and the menu’s complexity sometimes requires careful ordering to avoid confusion. Reservations are recommended, especially for the downstairs dining room, which is popular and can be difficult to access without prior booking. The upstairs café provides a more accessible alternative for casual visits.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Essential places to dine
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
