Background

The Black Book

Soho's clandestine basement wine bar, pouring rare vintages by the glass alongside Mediterranean bites in a former members' club hideout—perfect for late-night indulgence.

4.5

Tucked away in a Soho basement, The Black Book is a sophisticated wine bar founded by master sommeliers Gearoid Devaney and Xavier Rousset. Featuring London's largest by-the-glass wine list via an innovative Coravin cellar, it pairs exceptional vintages with Mediterranean small plates, charcuterie, and sharing dishes in an intimate, club-like atmosphere open late into the night.

A brief summary to The Black Book

  • 23 Frith St, London, W1D 4RR, GB
  • +442074341724
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Tuesday 5 pm-12 am
  • Wednesday 5 pm-12 am
  • Thursday 5 pm-2 am
  • Friday 5 pm-2 am
  • Saturday 5 pm-2 am

Local tips

  • Opt for weekly specials like 'funky Tuesday' wines to sample unusual, limited pours not found elsewhere.
  • Pair charcuterie or truffled polenta chips with bold reds from the Coravin list for ideal flavor harmony.
  • Arrive post-10pm on weekends for the full late-night vibe with live music and industry crowd.
  • Reserve ahead for groups, as the intimate space fills quickly in Soho's nightlife hub.
widget icon

The Black Book location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather

Unlock the Best of The Black Book

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Black Book

From Exclusive Club to Public Hideaway

Originally launched as Trade, a private members' club for hospitality industry insiders like chefs and sommeliers, The Black Book occupies a discreet basement space at 23 Frith Street in Soho. In September 2020, founders Gearoid Devaney and Xavier Rousset—both master sommeliers with pedigrees from Michelin-starred establishments—reimagined it as an open-to-all wine bar and late-night eatery. This evolution preserves its secretive allure while inviting wine enthusiasts to discover rare pours in central London.

Master Sommeliers' Curated Wine Paradise

The heart of The Black Book beats in its walk-in Coravin cellar, enabling an unmatched selection of fine wines by the glass, including vintage classics, rare bottles, and under-the-radar gems from top producers. Prices remain accessible thanks to industry connections, with options spanning pocket-friendly whites to splurge-worthy reds. Weekly 'funky' specials introduce unusual varietals like cloudy Georgian Tsitska or woodsmoke-scented Burgundy Fixin, appealing to novices and experts alike. The 'Black Book' name nods to clandestine lists of elite contacts, now applied to this hidden roster of vinous treasures.

Savory Mediterranean Pairings

Complementing the wines, the menu emphasizes simple yet elevated Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Small plates feature truffled gnocchi with Jerusalem artichoke puree, Sicilian raw red prawns, and addictive polenta truffle chips. Sharing platters of cheese and charcuterie shine, alongside heartier options like pan-fried cod with tarragon sauce, roasted onglet steak with peppercorns and hand-cut chips, or the signature Black Book burger with triple-cooked chips. Vegetarian highlights include courgette flowers stuffed with goat's curd and honey-truffle burrata with figs and walnuts. Desserts like salted caramel chocolate tart provide a sweet finale.

Intimate Basement Ambiance

Descending from bustling Frith Street, guests enter a snug, dimly lit haven evoking prohibition-era speakeasies. The long bar facilitates intimate seating for two, while tunnel-like rooms host larger groups around communal tables. Mood lighting, strategic furniture placement, and background music—spanning commercial pop to diverse tunes—create a welcoming, family-like vibe. Live music and DJs enhance private hires, with the space accommodating up to 100 standing or 70 seated.

Late-Night Soho Sanctuary

Operating Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm, The Black Book extends into the early hours: midnight midweek, 3am on Thursdays through Saturdays. This schedule caters to after-work unwinding, post-dinner drinks, or nightcaps amid Soho's vibrant chaos. Its corner position near Old Compton Street positions it as an oasis, drawing industry pros relaxing post-shift alongside discerning visitors seeking respite from the crowds.

Exclusivity Meets Accessibility

Though rooted in hospitality elite circles, the venue's public reincarnation democratizes luxury. Knowledgeable staff, including sommeliers, offer non-intimidating guidance, fostering an engaging atmosphere. Cocktails add variety, but wine remains the undisputed star, making The Black Book a perennial Soho draw for those craving sophistication without pretension.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near The Black Book

Popular Hotels near The Black Book

Select Currency