Bruno, Soho, London

Bar Bruno is one of those places to which no attention was paid to, other than by those that used it regularly, stumbled on through the 90s and finds itself now part of everything ‘retro’.
One of the last few Soho places to remain untouched by redesign, saved from disappearing by it’s good solid service of food to suit all at basic prices, coupled with a real connection to people of the daily life there; you’ll find everyone from window cleaners to pin stripe gents ( not so many of the latter these days it must be said) builders to media monkeys, the latter in their frayed jeans, former often in football shirts, lunchtime bands of office girls and the occasional lady up from the shires. Just about everyone else as well.
All get a cheery word – not supercilious acknowledgement – and fast service. Eat in and you’ll hear all the banter too.

A timeless Italian soho cafe. Very good value and if it's a nice day and you fancy a ciabatta to eat in the churchyard this is definitely the best place to get it.

Bar Bruno is, like the (overrated) Bar Italia, a Soho 'institution'. Its been around for decades and I don't think the decor has been given an update since the 70s. That's no bad thing though, kind of adds to it's charm. I like the fact that my Dad bought lunch here when he was my age.

Expect a million and one sandwich options, decent prices (considering the West End location) and friendly Italians behind the counter. If you're going for breakfast then the place is dead first thing in the morning, but don't expect to get a seat during the lunchtime rush.

One of those classic, timless Italian cafes that make Soho Soho.

Great for a toasted panini with all the trimmings, as well as a fry up or just a cup of tea and a bacon sandwich, the prices are not extortionate, the staff are always chirpy and the 70s booth seating inside will make you feel like your in Life in Mars…that’s a good thing by the way :)

Bruno’s is a small Italian ran café on the edge of Wardour Street. They serve homemade pasta to full English breakfasts. Though you can get a simple coffee and two pieces of toast with marmite in the morning (which I fully recommend) the best thing about Bruno’s café is their Panini. Though the fully packed ones can be a little expensive, they range from £2.50 to £4.40. Though if you go for the most expensive one you will not be disappointed. they are possible the most delicious panini’s I have ever had. My favour is a chicken escalope with roasted vegetables or the chicken escalope with cheese and sun dried tomatoes… they are heaven. If you are in the west end and your not sure what to eat then Bruno is the place you need to try. Though be warned due to their busy lunch rush if you do want to sit down in the café between 12.30-2.30pm you have to pay a £1.50 table charge.

Bar Bruno has saved my belly on many occassions, especially when I have been drinking in the Samuel Smith’s boozer The John Snow a handy mere wobble away from each other.

Set menus include Italian dishes, English breakfasts… that sort of thing… sandwiches, tea and coffee (very reasonably priced, especially for central London).

Small wooden booth-type seating and tables to maximise space, you may be shuffled about a bit like tetris if it gets busy which it does around lunchtime, but the staff are very friendly, and is a favourite with local work folk.