Founded in 1926, Quo Vadis is named after the Latin phrase Quo vadis? (where are you going?) and has cemented itself as one of Soho’s most beloved culinary institutions. It has had various owners over the years – including a partnership between Marco Pierre White and Damien Hirst from 1996-2007 – but the restaurant is now in the hands of Sam and Eddie Hart, who are behind the immensely successful Barrafina.
Head chef Jeremy Lee joined in 2012 and instantly stamped his mark on the building, refurbishing the décor and instilling his unmistakable take on traditional British cuisine. Quo Vadis’ location, combined with Jeremy’s incredibly popular cuisine, means the restaurant has become a favourite for celebrities, theatre-goers and many of London’s tourists.
The interior is simple, full of fresh flowers and relaxed, with illustrations throughout by artist John Broadley (which also appear on the iconic menu). There are two main dining rooms downstairs, with several other smaller rooms found along corridors, up staircases and through small doors. There are two private dining rooms, seating six to twelve or twelve to thirty-two guests, and a sizeable bar serving cocktails, Champagne, wine and ales.
Quo Vadis is open for breakfast on weekdays, serving traditional British favourites such as a full English, kippers, porridge, eggs and pastries from the on-site bakery. Lunch and dinner are comprised from ingredients sourced by Jeremy and his extensive catalogue of suppliers, all of which use the very best produce from Britain’s farms. There’s an à la carte, range of bar snacks and a set three-course theatre menu served all day. Portions are always plentiful and generous, with a varied selection of new, seasonal flavours and several signature dishes that the restaurant has become famous for.