Govinda's Soho Street Verified listing

Govinda’s on Soho Street is one of London’s oldest vegetarian restaurants, established in 1979 beneath the Hare Krishna temple. Rooted in spiritual tradition, it serves prasadam—wholesome vegetarian and vegan food first offered in devotion to Krishna before being shared with diners. The ethos is simple: to provide nourishing, ethical, and affordable meals in a calm, welcoming setting right in the heart of busy Soho.

The menu revolves around thali-style platters, where guests can choose combinations of curries, rice, chapattis, and salads. Alongside these, there are Western-inspired vegetarian options such as lasagna, veggie burgers, and quiches, as well as Indian favourites like samosas, dals, and pakoras. Desserts range from classic cheesecakes and ice cream to traditional sweets like laddhu and barfi. Meals are served in a self-service, canteen-style format, with communal seating that adds to the lively yet laid-back atmosphere.

What makes Govinda’s stand out is its value and community spirit. With generous portions priced affordably (often £5–£8), it has become a favourite among students, workers, and visitors looking for hearty, plant-based meals without overspending. Its mix of nourishing food, spiritual roots, and unpretentious charm has made it a Soho institution, loved as much for its sense of tradition as for its warm and filling dishes.