DEAR JACKIE | Broadwick Soho, W1F 8HT
Dear Jackie is the kind of place that makes grey skies feel like an invitation to stay a little longer. Order something comforting, settle into the booth, and let the city carry on without you for a while.
THE VAULT | Milroy's, W1D 4NX
Slip through the whisky shop, push open the bookcase, and step down into The Vault. It's one of Soho's best-kept secrets - all leather, candlelight and quiet conversation.
ITALIAN BEAR CHOCOLATE | W1F 9QL
When the rain sets in, head to Italian Bear Chocolate. It's warm, relaxed, and just the right kind of indulgent. Order one of their signature hot chocolates or a coffee, find a seat by the window, and watch Soho go by.
FOYLES | Charring Cross Road, WC2H 0EB
Four floors of books and the perfect spot to lose track of time. Browse the shelves, wander upstairs, and settle into the café with a view of the street below. Rain sounds better when it's part of the background.
RANDALL & AUBIN | Brewer Street, W1F 0SQ
Oysters, champagne, tiled floors and candlelight. A Soho favourite since the '90s, Randall & Aubin does seafood and charm the old-fashioned way.
CURZON SOHO | Shaftesbury Ave, W1D 5DY
A rainy afternoon classic. Choose a film, order a glass of wine, and sink into one of the red seats as the doors close and the noise of the city fades away.
LIBERTY LONDON | Regent Street, W1B 5AH
Few buildings feel as comforting as Liberty on a wet afternoon. The creak of the wood floors, the scent of perfume, the pattern and colour everywhere - it's British nostalgia done perfectly.
BAR TERMINI | Old Compton Street, W1D 5JE
Standing room, strong coffee, and perfectly mixed Negronis. When Soho turns grey, this tiny spot feels like a quick trip to Rome - no umbrella or rain coat required.
PHOTOGRAPHERS' GALLERY | Ramillies St, W1F 7LW
A calm escape just off Oxford Street. Move through the exhibitions, stop in the bookshop, then take a moment in the café downstairs before heading back into the rain.
THE FRENCH HOUSE | Dean St, W1D 5BG
A Soho classic that feels even better on a rainy day. No phones, half-pints only, and decades of stories soaked into the walls.
BAR LINA | Brewer St, W1F 0SG
Part deli, part wine bar, and always inviting. Stop in for small plates and a glass of something good. Brewer Street looks even better from behind the glass.