Alta

A Basque-leaning, fire-kissed refuge from the commotion that is Carnaby Street, Alta cocoons with warm wood and low light yet with just enough bustle to remind you you’re still in Soho. The menu puts a contemporary Iberian imprint on premium British ingredients via a loose procession of snacks and small plates, with the larger and pricier grill-based dishes – 35-day-aged bone-in sirloin, pork or lamb chop – designed for sharing. Seated next to the open kitchen and grill, we had envisaged food with a rougher, rustic edge but everything we ate was elegant and masterful – among the best iterations of Spanish-inflected cooking we’ve seen, in fact. And it’s it's also one of those rare places that works equally well for a casual walk-in (counter or outdoor terrace) or a booked table with a group of friends. Whatever you do, don’t miss the smoked Cheddar doughnuts and make the most of the extensive wall of wines, sherries and cocktails....