Descending from the bustle of Soho’s streets into SOMA is a shift in tempo. The street-level entrance is entirely unassuming, but the mood transforms the moment guests are led downstairs: deep blue tones, a brushed stainless steel bar, and sandalwood incense in the air. The design is stripped-back, minimal, and quietly theatrical, with a glowing moon-like light installation adding a softness to the otherwise industrial palette.

The centrepiece of the room is a long communal steel table that doubles as both bar and seating. This layout places the craft of the bartenders at the heart of the guest experience, while also encouraging the intimacy of shared space. Beyond, draped curtains conceal side lounges and a snug built into a rediscovered basement arch, creating a contrasting sense of privacy. The balance between openness and seclusion is a hallmark of the venue’s design.

SOMA’s drinks philosophy is equally pared-back yet layered with detail. The cocktail menu is minimal, split between twists on classics and reimaginings of traditional Indian beverages and dishes. Ingredients lead the narrative with each drink named for its key element, while presentation avoids flourish for flourish’s sake. Embossed logo-stamped ice, clean lines of glassware, and powders or sprays as subtle garnishes embody the same aesthetic restraint as the room itself.

Behind the scenes, however, the work is anything but minimal. A dedicated prep lab holds sous-vide machines, Thermomix, dehydrators, and fermentation equipment. Here, the team creates the cordials, infusions, and ferments that underpin their recipes. Even a multi-use “sour agent” is designed in-house to streamline classics while reducing waste. This infrastructure ensures consistency and allows the bartenders to serve quickly, aiming to deliver each order within six minutes, without compromising on detail.

The spirit list is deliberately compact, striking a balance between well-known houses and smaller, independent producers. Collaborations with chefs from sister group Kricket support sourcing and seasonality, while a conscious approach reduces waste. House spirits are delivered in refillable jerrycans, water is filtered and bottled in-house, and fruit stock is kept intentionally lean to avoid spoilage.

Service is entirely tableside, guided by an ethos of precision that doesn’t slip into formality. Guests are greeted first by security upstairs, then by a host who seats them with water and a menu explanation. The team take pride in remembering returning guests’ preferences and tailoring drinks accordingly. These thoughtful touches, like glasses of fizz for couples or house-roasted nuts for long-staying groups, layer warmth onto the minimalist frame.

Inclusivity and staff development are embedded in the operation here with training tailored to individual experience and mentorship and personal development plans in place. Equity in pay and culture is safeguarded by clear policies, while wellbeing is supported with access to apps, breaks, and safe commuting allowances. 

Ultimately, SOMA Soho is a study in contrasts. It is sleek yet sensorial, minimal yet layered with detail, and quietly confident in its Indian-inspired narrative. For guests, it delivers not just drinks, but a complete atmosphere of refinement, warmth, and shared experience in the heart of Soho.