The scene: Its remarkable heritage and decadent setting are married in a quirky evening package, which includes a tour of Soho, followed by dinner and cocktails. Tour guide Emma brings the area’s rich past to life, with trivia on its once prostitute-lined streets and tales of its murky past. Later, we are seated in the low-lit basement bar Floridita, with curved lounges, a sweeping staircase, and tacky nightclub atmos, when a trio of glittering drag queens storms on the stage, showgirl-like and spectacularly camp.
The grub It’s a limited menu for the package, including fish, meat and vegetarian options. I plump for the salmon. It squidges beneath my fork and the chicory is limp. I’m far too distracted by the imposing drag queens to care, though.
Behind the bar: The bar does a great cocktail, inspired by its Latin American theme, and some named after celebrities who visited its 20th-century Havana cocktail bar, such as Ava Gardner and Spencer Tracy.
Bill please The tour, two-course meal, mojito, plus show costs £35. A glass of wine from £4.25, a bottle from £20.50. Cocktails from £8.50.
verdict: A dash of culture and a liberal measure of camp make for a thoroughly satisfying night. From 6.45pm every Tues, Wed and Thurs. Rebecca kent
100 Wardour Street, W1F 0TN
Tube | Piccadilly Circus
floriditalondon.com
