The Devonshire Soho is a premier multi-storey British pub and grill room located at 17 Denman Street, London, co-founded by publican Oisín Rogers, Flat Iron creator Charlie Carroll, and chef Ashley Palmer-Watts. Known for serving what many consider the best pint of Guinness in the capital, the venue features a traditional ground-floor pub, a sophisticated wood-ember grill restaurant on the upper floors, and a popular rooftop terrace. Since its high-profile opening in November 2023, it has become a staple of the Soho dining scene, offering a menu centered on in-house butchery, dry-aged Scottish beef, and classic British comfort food.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to secure a coveted reservation, what to order from the wood-fired grill, and how to navigate the different spaces of this massive three-level establishment. From the £29 set lunch deal to the secrets of their rooftop terrace, this is everything you need to know about visiting the “hottest ticket in town” in 2026.
The Visionaries Behind the Pub
The success of The Devonshire stems from a “hospitality supergroup” consisting of three industry titans. Oisín Rogers, formerly of The Guinea Grill, brings decades of expertise in managing traditional London boozers, while Charlie Carroll provides the operational brilliance that scaled Flat Iron to national fame.
Completing the trio is Ashley Palmer-Watts, the former executive chef of the two-Michelin-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. Together, they have transformed a former Jamie’s Italian site into a venue that feels as though it has been part of Soho’s fabric since the 18th century.
Ground Floor Public House
The ground floor is a masterclass in traditional pub atmosphere, featuring dark wood, leather-covered banisters, and standing room that frequently spills out onto Denman Street. It operates on a walk-in only basis, making it a democratic space where anyone can enjoy a drink without a booking.
Aside from the world-famous Guinness, the bar serves a curated selection of snacks prepared by an in-house bakery and butcher. Popular items include the “sausage on a stick” and bacon sandwiches, which offer a high-quality yet affordable entry point to the venue’s culinary offerings.
The Upstairs Grill Room
The first and second floors house the formal dining rooms, where the focus shifts to high-end British produce cooked over a massive custom wood ember grill. This section requires a reservation, which typically opens weeks in advance and fills up almost instantly.
The menu highlights include Scottish beef butchered on-site by head butcher George Donnelly and creel-caught langoustines from Oban. The atmosphere here is more refined than the pub below, featuring contemporary art, cushioned tables, and attentive service that has earned the restaurant a place in the Michelin Guide.
Signature Dishes to Order
If you are dining in the Grill Room, the Beef Cheek and Guinness Suet Pudding is widely regarded as a non-negotiable order. The suet is incredibly light, and the filling is rich with slow-braised beef that mirrors the quality of the stout served downstairs.
For those focused on the grill, the Iberico Pork Chop and various cuts of dry-aged steak offer a distinct smoky flavor that only wood-fire cooking can achieve. Finish the meal with their legendary Sticky Toffee Pudding, which critics have described as one of the best iterations in London.
The Famous £29 Set Menu
One of the most talked-about deals in London is The Devonshire’s three-course set lunch, priced at £29. This menu typically includes a classic prawn cocktail (topped with a partially shelled langoustine), a wood-grilled skirt steak with duck fat chips, and the signature sticky toffee pudding.
This menu has won awards for its exceptional value, allowing diners to experience high-level chef techniques and premium ingredients at a price point accessible to most. It is available during lunch hours on weekdays, though it remains a highly competitive booking.
Practical Information and Planning
Visiting The Devonshire requires a bit of strategy, especially if you plan to eat in the restaurant rather than just grabbing a pint.
- Address: 17 Denman Street, London W1D 7HW (just behind Piccadilly Circus).
- Opening Hours: Typically 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Monday–Saturday) and 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM (Sunday).
- Booking Policy: Pub and Rooftop are walk-in only; Restaurant requires online booking via their official website.
- Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines) is a 2-minute walk away.
- What to Expect: Expect large crowds on the pavement and a bustling, high-energy environment inside.
The Rooftop Terrace
Added in 2024, the 40-seat rooftop terrace provides a rare outdoor dining space in the heart of Soho that isn’t on the street level. It is currently walk-in only, offering a brilliant alternative for those who couldn’t snag a table in the main dining room.
The terrace serves the same menu as the restaurant and is open only when weather permits. It is an ideal spot for a summer afternoon Guinness, providing views of the Soho skyline and a slightly more relaxed pace than the floors below.
Food and drink offerings
The Devonshire Soho serves a menu built around modern British and European‑influenced dishes, with an emphasis on sharing‑style plates, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables. Expect items such as risotto, steak cuts, seafood dishes, and a range of small plates that can be ordered à la carte or as part of a set‑meal structure. The food balances comfort and sophistication, often using straightforward seasoning to highlight the quality of produce rather than heavy‑handed techniques.
The drinks list is similarly curated, featuring cocktails, wines by the glass, craft beers, and non‑alcoholic options. Signature cocktails often incorporate British spirits and familiar ingredients, with a balance of classic‑style drinks and a few more innovative, seasonally driven recipes. The bar is a strong feature of the space, with many guests choosing to start with drinks and snacks before moving into a full meal or simply staying for a long, social evening.
Typical dining experience and dress code
A typical visit to The Devonshire Soho begins with a host or staff member guiding you to a table or bar‑stool area, where you can review the menu and drink list. The ordering style is usually à la carte, with the option to mix and match starters, mains, and desserts, or sometimes choose from a tasting‑style selection if the venue is running a special menu on a given evening.
Dress code is broadly smart‑casual: neat jeans or trousers, a collared shirt, and casual‑but‑presentable footwear are generally acceptable. The environment is not as formal as a high‑end fine‑dining restaurant, so you do not need a full suit or cocktail dress, but you will feel more in place if you avoid very sporty or ripped clothing. The venue’s tone sits somewhere between a relaxed wine bar and a polished brasserie, which means you can comfortably come after work or during a weekend night out.
Prices and value
Prices at The Devonshire Soho are mid‑range for Soho, sitting above many casual gastropubs but below the city’s top‑tier fine‑dining addresses. Mains typically range from around £18–£30 per dish, depending on the protein and preparation, while starters and sharing plates are usually in the £8–£16 bracket. Desserts tend to finish the meal at a relatively modest price point, often under £10, and cocktails cluster in the £12–£16 range.
For many diners, the value lies in the combination of location, service, and food quality rather than aiming to be the “cheapest” option in Soho. The venue is well‑suited for guests who want a convenient, atmospheric meal close to theatres or central London meeting points, and who are willing to pay a premium reflective of the area and the restaurant’s finishes. Pre‑theatre menus or set‑meal offers, when available, can bring better value for fixed‑budget evenings.
Booking, reservations, and walk‑ins
Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings, late‑night seating, and for groups of four or more. The Devonshire Soho typically accepts bookings through its website or via popular restaurant‑booking platforms, with slots opening days or sometimes weeks in advance depending on demand. Calling the restaurant directly can also help secure seats for larger groups or last‑minute plans, although during peak periods availability may be limited.
Walk‑ins are possible, particularly during weekday afternoons and early evenings, but they can be hit‑or‑miss depending on the time and the day of the week. The bar area and some high tables are more flexible for drop‑in guests, whereas full sit‑down tables for larger parties are often reserved earlier. For post‑theatre audiences, checking opening times and booking ahead is advisable, as the venue can fill quickly after curtain call.
Best times to visit
Peak times at The Devonshire Soho are late Friday and Saturday evenings, when the bar and lower level are especially lively, and immediately after West End shows (usually around 10:00 pm–11:30 pm). For a more relaxed experience, consider weekday lunches, early dinners (around 6–7:30 pm), or weekend afternoons when the Soho crowds are lighter and the venue tends to be quieter but still buzzing.
The venue also tends to attract a mix of locals, theatre‑goers, and tourists, so your experience can vary by time of day. Weekday midday slots are good for business‑style meals, while late evenings suit social groups and celebrations. Seasonal events such as Christmas festivities, live music nights, or special tasting menus can draw larger crowds, so checking the restaurant’s events schedule before you go can help you pick the right time.
Accessibility and transport
The Devonshire Soho is located in central London, which means it is easily accessible by public transport rather than by car. The closest major Tube stations are Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square, and Oxford Circus, all within a 5–10 minute walk. Tottenham Court Road is also nearby, giving access via the Central and Elizabeth lines for those coming from other parts of London or from Heathrow Airport.
The area is pedestrian‑friendly, with a mix of narrow streets and busy walkways, so wearing practical footwear is advisable. Many nearby car parks exist but are expensive, so using the Tube or a taxi/ride‑share is usually more convenient. For guests with mobility needs, checking the restaurant’s current accessibility information (such as step‑free access and lift use for upper floors) is recommended, as older Soho buildings can have limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a table at The Devonshire Soho?
Restaurant bookings are released in blocks on their website; it is recommended to check exactly when new dates are released. The pub and rooftop terrace are walk-in only and do not take reservations.
Is Guinness really the best in London?
While subjective, many experts and patrons claim it is. The pub uses a bespoke nitrogen-to-carbon dioxide ratio and maintains its lines meticulously to ensure a consistent, creamy pour.
Does The Devonshire have a dress code?
No formal dress code is enforced, reflecting the “classic pub” ethos. You will see a mix of casual Soho locals and business professionals in suits.
Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes, while the focus is on butchery and the grill, the menu includes options like the Pumpkin Risotto and various seasonal vegetable sides.
How much does a meal at The Devonshire cost?
A la carte starters range from £9–£18, while mains typically cost between £24 and £45. The set lunch menu is the most affordable option at £29 for three courses.
What is the “Green Room” at The Devonshire?
The Green Room is an invitation-only space that has hosted intimate performances by stars like Ed Sheeran; it is not generally accessible to the public.
Final Thoughts
The Devonshire Soho has solidified its reputation as the “buzziest pub in the world,” successfully blending the democratic spirit of a classic London boozer with the technical precision of a high-end grill. As of 2026, it remains the ultimate destination for those seeking the city’s most talked-about Guinness, wood-fired Scottish beef, and an atmosphere that perfectly captures the “old Soho” charm. Whether you are visiting for the legendary £29 set lunch or fighting for a walk-in spot on the rooftop terrace, The Devonshire stands as a masterclass in modern British hospitality.
By focusing on in-house butchery, direct-from-source ingredients, and a “hospitality supergroup” leadership, the venue has moved beyond mere hype to become a genuine London institution. For any visitor to the capital in 2026, a trip to 17 Denman Street is not just a meal or a drink—it is an essential cultural experience.
To Read More: Manchester Independent