Balans Soho No. 60 Formerly: Balans Soho Society

The most recognized name in casual high-definition-gay London dining, Balans caters to carnivores and vegetarians with a one-of-each-style international menu at this and other branches. It's a very lively establishment and comfortingly queer, especially for first-time visitors, with an open front conveniently looking onto gay-friendly Soho catwalk Old Compton St. The tagline is 'haven for the convivial'. However, since its 1993 debut the cooking has been considerably less than vital, and prices are not at all budget, especially given the quality on offer. But this flagship outlet reinvented itself in November 2015 with five menus (breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight, and weekend brunch) and plenty of new dishes. The restaurant is divided into three zones, featuring an open and casual café-bistro at the front, followed by slightly more plush and comfy dinning, with a boudoir-like, high-camp, banquette-only space at the back.