49 Frith St, London W1D 4SG, UK
If you are navigating the vibrant culinary landscape of London’s West End, hoppers soho is a destination that demands your attention. Bursting with the aromas of roasted spices, coconut milk, and curry leaves, this restaurant has redefined the perception of Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine in the UK. Inspired by the roadside shacks and toddy shops of Sri Lanka, Hoppers brings an authentic, high-energy dining experience to Frith Street. Whether you are a long-time fan of spicy kothus or a newcomer eager to try your first egg hopper, this Soho establishment offers a transportive journey for your tastebuds.
The soul of hoppers soho is deeply rooted in the passion of its Creative Director and Co-Founder, Karan Gokani. Karan’s journey is one of bold transformation; he left a career in law to pursue his true calling in hospitality. Growing up in Mumbai and spending time in England, he immersed himself in the rich food cultures of South India and Sri Lanka. His travels took him to coastal villages, spice gardens, and bustling city eateries, where he gathered the inspiration that would eventually shape the Hoppers brand.
Teaming up with JKS Restaurants, Karan launched Hoppers with a clear vision: to serve the food he loved—unpretentious, flavour-packed, and communal. The Soho location was the first to open its doors, quickly earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its exceptional quality and value. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about recreating the warmth and hospitality of a Sri Lankan home.
At hoppers soho, the menu is a celebration of “short eats,” rice and roasts, and, of course, the namesake hoppers. A hopper is a bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice and coconut milk batter, crispy on the edges and soft in the centre. It is the perfect vessel for soaking up the restaurant’s rich karis (curries) and sambols.
Diners are encouraged to dive in with their hands, tearing off pieces of dosa or hopper to scoop up mouthfuls of Black Pork Kari or the signature Bone Marrow Varuval. The food here is unapologetically bold. The sour tang of goraka, the heat of roasted chilli, and the creamy sweetness of coconut milk are balanced with expert precision. The menu also features street food favourites like Mutton Rolls—breaded, deep-fried delights stuffed with spiced meat—and Kothu Roti, a rhythmical dish of chopped flatbread stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and curry.
Walking into hoppers soho feels like stepping into a village toddy shop in the tropics. The interiors are designed to be warm and inviting, with terracotta tiles, wooden furniture, and poster art that evokes a sense of nostalgia. The space is intimate and buzzing with conversation, creating a communal atmosphere where sharing food is second nature. The smell of spices hits you the moment you walk in, setting the stage for a memorable meal. It is a place where the energy of Soho meets the laid-back, welcoming spirit of Sri Lanka.
Hoppers soho is more than just a restaurant; it is a culinary landmark that tells a story of heritage, travel, and passion. For anyone looking to explore the depth of Sri Lankan cuisine without leaving London, this is the place to be. With its award-winning food, vibrant atmosphere, and the creative vision of Karan Gokani at the helm, it remains one of the city’s most beloved dining spots.
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