Review of Arcade in Covent Garden
Arcade’s newest branch in Covent Garden has been creating quite the buzz, and after spending an evening there, I can completely understand why. Stylish, vibrant and effortlessly cool, Arcade is far more than just another food hall. From the moment you step inside, it feels like somewhere designed to be experienced rather than simply visited. The industrial-inspired interiors are softened by warm lighting, contemporary design and an open-plan layout that buzzes with energy without ever feeling chaotic. It's the kind of place that invites you to settle in, order another cocktail and let the evening unfold naturally.
What makes Arcade so special is its celebration of global cuisine under one roof. Rather than committing to one restaurant, diners are encouraged to explore a collection of exceptional kitchens, each bringing its own unique flavours and personality. Whether you're craving bold Asian dishes, comforting classics or vibrant greek cooking, there's something to satisfy every appetite. You'll find Gracey's serving delicious pizzas, Solis specialising in premium steaks and rotisserie chicken, Manna crafting some of London's best smash burgers, Hero dishing up flavour-packed North Indian street food, and much more.
It's a refreshingly modern concept that makes dining with friends or family incredibly easy, especially when everyone has different tastes. Instead of compromising, everyone gets exactly what they're craving while still sharing the same table and experience. Of course, great variety only works when the quality matches the concept, and Arcade absolutely delivers.
I couldn't resist ordering the smash burger from Manna. Having tried it before, I already knew I was in for something special, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Two beautifully caramelised beef patties, smashed to create those irresistibly crisp edges while remaining incredibly juicy, were tucked inside a soft, buttery brioche bun. Inside crisp pickles and a rich, tangy burger sauce that ties everything together perfectly, it's the kind of burger that lingers in your memory long after the last bite. The steak from Solis was another standout. Expertly cooked, wonderfully tender and packed with rich, smoky flavour, every mouthful melted effortlessly. It was simple, high-quality cooking that let the ingredients speak for themselves. Hero's butter chicken was equally impressive. Hero's curry butter chicken, which we ordered with rice as well, was comforting, fragrant and full of depth.
While the dishes are slightly more expensive than your typical food hall offering, the quality of the ingredients, the attention to detail and the overall experience make it feel like so much more than somewhere to grab a quick bite. This is destination dining. One of my favourite features was the open kitchen, where you can watch the chefs expertly preparing each dish with precision and speed. After dinner we stayed for more cocktails, chatting well into the evening. With Arcade open until 11pm, it's the perfect destination for a leisurely dinner, whether you're catching up with friends, celebrating a special occasion or simply making the most of a night in Covent Garden.
Vibrant, stylish and full of exceptional food, Arcade is a genuinely exciting addition to Covent Garden's dining scene. It's a place where incredible flavours, beautiful surroundings and a relaxed atmosphere come together seamlessly, leaving you already planning your next visit before you've even walked out the door.
Address: 6 Bedford Street, London, WC2E 9HZ
For more information and to book, click here.
Image one courtesy of Johnny Stephens
