Signor Zilli Bar, Soho, London

Really poor. Overpriced food and fake service.

After the waiter flirted with us when we walked in to embarrassing degrees, we were seated, only to have to wait 25 minutes for our meagre main course to come. When we asked for a discount or a free drink at the end, the flirting came to an abrupt end and we were given very terse treatment. After asking twice for a discount because we had to wait, they gave in, after blaming the kitchen for the trouble.

Never ever go back there again.

Really good bog standard Italian food and not too outrageously priced for Soho. I would have liked if there were more pasta options, but I did have a really good four cheese pizza and a friend had a risotto with prawns and saffron that was also mighty tasty. And their tiramisu is to die for.

What’s really great about this cozy little spot is that it’s open late and the staff are welcoming to late comers. We didn’t show up until close to 10pm on a Saturday night and everything was still fresh and piping hot. But even when we were leaving at around 11.30pm, there were still groups of people streaming. And based on how many people cheek-kissed the manager, it’s a place clearly built on its regular clientele. I’d definitely go back for a late-night nosh.

Working in Frith Street for several years meant walking past this well established Soho bar every night - and stopping in for a ‘quick one’ which usually meant a few bottles of Verdicchio (sp?) with the lads. Zilli’s was referred to as ‘meeting room 4’ when we needed to get out of the office on a spurious ‘new business planning meeting’!
Cramped, noisy, vibrant, Soho prices - but great for celeb spotting (and posing). You can also order food from the excellent Zilli’s restaurant right next door - classic pasta (penne arabiatta is a good veg option) or try and soak up the booze with a supply of olives & bread! Pavement tables are much prized in summer. Also try Zilli’s fish restaurants for a slightly classier ambience.