Overview
A cornerstone of Soho’s vibrant cultural past, The French House is not your average London pub — and that’s exactly why it’s so beloved. Located at 49 Dean Street, it has been a watering hole for revolutionaries, writers, actors, and eccentrics for over a century. Formerly known as York Minster, the pub took on its French identity during World War II when Charles de Gaulle used it as a meeting point for the Free French Forces.
Today, The French House is famed for its idiosyncrasies: it only serves beer in half-pints, there's no television or music, and mobile phone use is strictly discouraged. It’s a place for conversation and connection, drawing an eclectic crowd of regulars, creatives, and curious newcomers.
The interior is intimate and charmingly worn-in, with walls adorned with black-and-white portraits of past patrons, old French posters, and wine bottles lining the shelves. The bar is small and always busy, yet the mood remains relaxed and neighbourly.
Behind the bar, you’ll find a curated selection of continental lagers, real ales, and a strong list of French wines and aperitifs, including Ricard, pastis, and Calvados. The upstairs restaurant, led by acclaimed chef Neil Borthwick, offers a refined French-British menu in a cosy dining room that feels worlds away from bustling Soho.
Whether you stop by for a quiet drink or settle in for a leisurely meal, The French House is a rare find: a timeless, unpretentious haven where culture, character, and conversation still take centre stage.
Last update April 2024
