Shirley Yanez / 26 July 2025 / Categories: City, What to do, Restaurants

Maison Soutine French Restaurant St Johns Wood

French food in NW8

Soutine, nestled in the charming embrace of St John's Wood, is a delightful boulevard café that whispers the alluring essence of Parisian elegance. The moment you step through its doors, you're transported to the heart of the French capital, where the aroma of freshly baked pastries and the gentle murmur of lively conversation weave together in a tapestry of comfort and sophistication.

The Wolseley Hospitality Group has crafted this gem with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every element echoes the timeless charm of the great boulevard cafés that line the streets of Paris. Here, the art of relaxation is celebrated with a touch of bohemian flair, a nod to the area's rich artistic history. The walls, adorned with evocative paintings, seem to hold secrets of the many vibrant stories that have unfolded within the café's warm embrace.

The menu is a love letter to French cuisine, a culinary journey that unfolds from dawn till dusk. Start your day with a heavenly croissant, flaky and buttery, or indulge in a sumptuous breakfast that transcends the ordinary. As the day progresses, savour the mouth-watering delights of traditional dishes like coq au vin, steak frites, or a perfectly executed croque monsieur. The selection is a testament to the unassuming elegance that French food is known for, each dish a canvas for the vibrant flavours that dance on your palate.

But Soutine isn't just about the food; it's about the experience. It's about pausing for a moment to watch the world go by, to read a book, to share a laugh with a friend over a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of wine. It's about the art of living that the French do so well – the art of savoir-faire. Whether you're seeking a quiet refuge or a lively social scene, the café's atmosphere adapts to your mood. The soft lighting and comfortable seating invite you to linger, to soak in the ambiance and let the hours drift by.

In the evening, the café transforms into a vibrant yet intimate dining destination, where the clinking of cutlery and the hum of conversation create a symphony of satisfaction. The menu evolves with the setting sun, offering a tantalizing array of dishes that are a delightful mix of the familiar and the avant-garde. Each dish is a testament to the chef's passion for French culinary traditions, yet infused with a contemporary twist that keeps things fresh and exciting.

The service at Soutine is attentive yet unobtrusive, the staff a delightful blend of professionalism and friendliness that adds to the authenticity of the experience. They're there when you need them, ready to recommend the perfect wine to complement your meal or to regale you with stories of the café's namesake, the celebrated painter Chaim Soutine.

So, if you're in the mood for a taste of Paris in the heart of London, Soutine is your destination. Whether you're an art aficionado, a food enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a slice of European charm, this neighbourhood rendezvous will not disappoint