What started as a silent film cinema in 1909 took many forms before becoming The Windmill Soho with all its bells and whistles. In 2021, the venue was reopened as the prestigious restaurant and nightclub we know and love.
Needless to say, leading up to that moment, the Windmill Soho history has been a rich one and it’s a part of what gives the venue its allure. This Windmill Soho review, will tell you everything.
The Atmosphere
It’s hard to put a label on the vibe at The Windmill Soho. On the outside, you have the classic vertical neon marquee spelling the venue’s name in red neon lights. It’s luxurious and designed with just the right touch of modernity to stay faithful to The Windmill Soho history - the club was both a theatre and a burlesque show bar at two different points in time.
As for the inside of the venue, there are three things that caught our attention. One, the mind-boggling lighting system and the marvellous crew who know how to work it to create a magical atmosphere. Two, the sense of grandiosity that The Windmill exudes. Last but not least, the fact that you’ll always have a good view of the show no matter where you sit.
There’s a large number of tables, all arranged around the stage. There’s also a second floor with balconies overlooking the main seating area. Although, keep in mind that the layout changes late at night when the DJ takes over and the Windmill Soho restaurant turns into a prestigious nightclub.
That’s when you can see how big the place really is. It keeps everyone close, but still offers the mystery of all those other areas to be explored.
The Windmill Soho Menu
The Windmill Soho menu is designed by Chapter One’s Michelin star chef Andrew Mcleish and it features dishes from all over the world. From tuna tacos to prawn tempura and truffle mac and cheese, the menu’s variety and fusion tend to get quite interesting. And we haven't even mentioned the absolutely sublime 32-day dry-aged Hereford beef rib eye yet.
Keep in mind, there’s also a Sunday bottomless brunch menu known as the Pleasure Palace. This Sunday brunch comes accompanied by a drag performance from the legendary DJ Jodie Harsh.
Entertainment
The shows at The Windmill Soho differ from one night to the next, but what they all have in common is glamour. From the costumes to the light and the music, everything about a Windmill Soho show screams glamour, magic, and opulence. Dancers, singers, burlesque performers, and magicians constantly put on amazing performances to make every night a magical one. Not to mention, with a touch of technology, performances can get really wild.
Reservations
A venue as historical as The Windmill Soho that offers such a prestigious theatrical dining experience can be quite busy most of the year. This means that getting a booking there can be a hassle depending on when you want to go. That's why if you'd like to make a restaurant booking, we suggest you reach out to the venue's website as soon as you can. If you have any inquiries about the nightclub portion of Windmill Soho, all you’ll have to do is get in touch with us.
The Windmill Soho Dress Code
The Windmill Soho dress code is fairly straightforward. All they ask is that you dress smart. Which means an elegant outfit for the ladies and a nice pair of high heels. For the gentlemen, this means a dress shirt, a blazer, smart trousers and shoes.
The Windmill Soho club & restaurant management also advises you to stay away from sportswear and hoodies. And, most importantly, stay away from fancy dress.
Location
The Windmill Soho restaurant and club is located at 17-19 Great Windmill St., Soho, London. If you’re in London for a limited time, you’ll love the fact that it’s about a 3-minute walk from the famous Chinatown. You’ll also love how it’s even closer to Piccadilly Circus Station.
Opening Hours
Wednesday: 7:45 PM - Late
Thursday: 7:45 PM - 5:00 AM*
Friday - Saturday: 6:30 PM - 5:00 AM*
Sunday: 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM
*At midnight, the lights of the venue dim and the music grows louder as the restaurant turns into a nightclub.
The Windmill Soho restaurant is the perfect combination between theatre and food. Words, however, don’t do it enough justice. Right next to Tape club London, The Windmill Soho is an interesting dinner location if you’re in London.
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