
Based on looking at the website, Cinnamonsoho.com appears to be a legitimate restaurant offering contemporary Indian cuisine.
However, there are aspects that need a closer look, especially concerning its offerings like alcohol and entertainment.
Overall Review Summary:
- Website Legitimacy: Appears legitimate for a restaurant.
- Core Offering: Contemporary Indian cuisine.
- Potential Concerns: Mentions of “cocktails” and “entertainment” implied by “Joho Soho” content which is a series of events not explicitly mentioned on the homepage but can be found elsewhere on the site if one navigates.
- Missing Information: No clear disclaimers or explicit halal certification mentioned.
- Ethical Compliance: Raises questions due to alcohol sales and potential entertainment.
- Recommendation: Caution advised for those seeking strictly halal and ethical dining experiences, as the presence of alcohol is explicit.
Cinnamon Soho positions itself as a “fun, friendly, fearless!” contemporary Indian restaurant in Soho, London, spearheaded by Vivek Singh.
While the website presents a professional facade with clear booking options and menu highlights, the mention of “cocktails” and the implied entertainment aspects from the “Joho Soho” link raise immediate red flags for those adhering to strict Islamic dietary and lifestyle guidelines.
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. |
Amazon.com:
Check Amazon for Cinnamonsoho.com Review Latest Discussions & Reviews: |
The website is functional, allowing for table bookings and promoting gift cards and takeaway services.
However, the absence of explicit information regarding halal food preparation or any disclaimers about alcohol service means that for a Muslim consumer, significant due diligence would be required before dining here.
This review will delve into the website’s offerings, its pros and cons from an ethical perspective, and viable alternatives for consumers prioritizing halal and permissible options.
Best Alternatives for Ethical Dining & Gifting:
- For Halal-Certified Restaurants:
- Tayyabs Lahore-style Pakistani cuisine, London
- Dishoom Bombay comfort food, select branches may offer halal meat Verify halal status with specific branches before visiting.
- Gymkhana Upscale Indian, verify halal status Verify halal status with specific branches before visiting.
- For Ethical Gift Cards Non-Restaurant Specific:
- Amazon Gift Cards Versatile, wide range of ethical products
- Target Gift Cards Broad selection, reliable retail
- Starbucks Gift Cards For coffee and non-alcoholic beverages
- For Quality Non-Alcoholic Beverages/Mocktails:
- Seedlip Non-Alcoholic Spirits For crafting sophisticated mocktails at home
- Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Spirits Another popular brand for alcohol-free alternatives
- Ritual Zero Proof Variety of non-alcoholic spirits for mixed drinks
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Cinnamonsoho.com Review & First Look
Upon initial inspection, Cinnamonsoho.com presents a sleek and professional interface, typical of an established restaurant in a prime location like Soho.
The design is clean, with prominent calls to action for booking a table and exploring their menu.
The site immediately highlights its core offering: “CONTEMPORARY INDIAN RESTAURANT IN SOHO,” emphasizing its connection to renowned chef Vivek Singh’s other ventures, The Cinnamon Club and Cinnamon Kitchen.
This immediate association with established names lends an air of credibility to the brand.
Visual Appeal and User Interface
The website boasts a modern aesthetic with high-quality images of food and the restaurant interior, creating an inviting atmosphere. Hersheyphotography.com Review
The navigation is intuitive, with clear links to menus, booking, and contact information.
Users can easily select party size, date, and time for reservations directly from the homepage.
This streamlined user experience is a significant positive for potential diners looking to make quick arrangements.
Key Information Accessibility
Critical information such as contact details a phone number is prominently displayed and links to social media though not explicitly listed on the homepage text provided, typical for restaurants are readily available.
The address, implied by “Soho” and its proximity to “Carnaby Street,” is generally understood, though a full address with postcode would be more beneficial for navigation. Accessplc.com Review
The mention of “Open all day for lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and cocktails plus Indian takeaway” clearly outlines their service hours and options.
Initial Impressions of Offerings
The site emphasizes “fresh, seasonal Indian cookery, with a quirky British twist.” While this sounds appealing, the inclusion of “cocktails” as a direct offering is a significant point of consideration for Muslim consumers.
Furthermore, links like “Joho Soho WHERE WILL WE BE IN 2015? FIND OUT” suggest events or entertainment, which, depending on their nature, could also raise ethical concerns.
The homepage also prominently features “High Chai A BRITISH AFTERNOON TEA TRADITION FROM £25 FOR TWO” and “Gift Cards,” diversifying their offerings.
Cinnamonsoho.com Pros & Cons
When evaluating Cinnamonsoho.com, it’s essential to weigh its operational strengths against the ethical considerations that arise from its business model, particularly from an Islamic perspective. Acaula.com Review
Given the explicit mention of “cocktails” and the implied entertainment, a significant focus must be on the cons.
Operational Strengths Pros for a conventional diner
- Professional Website Design: The site is well-designed, easy to navigate, and visually appealing, creating a positive first impression. This professionalism suggests a well-run establishment.
- Clear Booking System: The integrated online booking system is convenient and user-friendly, allowing diners to reserve tables with ease.
- Established Brand Association: Being part of Vivek Singh’s Cinnamon collection The Cinnamon Club, Cinnamon Kitchen lends significant credibility and suggests a high standard of culinary quality.
- Diverse Offerings: Beyond standard lunch and dinner, the inclusion of afternoon tea “High Chai”, takeaway options, and gift cards provides multiple avenues for customers.
- Positive Customer Service Impression: The phrase “you’re guaranteed great service and great food in a friendly atmosphere” aims to reassure potential customers about their dining experience.
Ethical Considerations Cons from an Islamic Perspective
- Alcohol Service: The explicit mention of “cocktails” on the homepage immediately indicates that alcohol is served on the premises. This is a primary concern for Muslims, as consumption and association with alcohol are forbidden haram in Islam. Even if the food itself is halal, dining in an environment where alcohol is openly served can be problematic for many.
- Lack of Halal Certification/Disclaimer: There is no mention or indication on the homepage that the food served is halal, nor are there any disclaimers about cross-contamination with non-halal ingredients or cooking methods. For a restaurant offering Indian cuisine, which often appeals to a diverse demographic including Muslims, the absence of this information is a significant oversight.
- Potential Entertainment: The “Joho Soho” link, while vague on the homepage, hints at events or entertainment that might not align with Islamic principles. If these events involve podcast, dancing, or other activities considered immodest or distracting, they would further detract from its suitability.
- Non-Halal Ingredients Implied: Without clear halal certification, there’s a strong possibility that meat served is not slaughtered according to Islamic rites, and other ingredients e.g., certain oils, animal fats, or alcohol-based flavorings might not be permissible.
- General Atmosphere: The “Fun, Friendly, Fearless!” tagline, combined with the cocktail offering, suggests an atmosphere that might not be conducive to the serene and modest environment often preferred by Muslim diners.
- No Transparency on Sourcing: The website does not provide details about their ingredient sourcing or preparation practices, making it impossible for a Muslim consumer to verify the permissibility of the food.
Cinnamonsoho.com Alternatives
For consumers prioritizing ethical and halal dining experiences, Cinnamonsoho.com, with its explicit alcohol service, presents significant challenges.
Thankfully, the market offers numerous alternatives that cater to these specific needs, ranging from dedicated halal restaurants to services that support a more mindful consumption approach.
Dedicated Halal Restaurants
The best alternative for those seeking authentic Indian or South Asian cuisine that is unequivocally halal is to seek out establishments that explicitly advertise their halal certification.
These restaurants often have transparent sourcing and preparation methods, ensuring peace of mind. Forayinvestmentgroup.com Review
- Tayyabs Lahore-style Pakistani Cuisine: A renowned and long-standing establishment in London, famous for its grilled meats and curries. Tayyabs is widely recognized for its halal offerings and attracts a diverse crowd seeking authentic flavors. It’s a non-alcoholic restaurant, making it a safe choice for Muslim diners.
- Needo Grill Pakistani & Indian: Another popular choice in London, known for its charcoal grills and traditional Pakistani and Indian dishes. Similar to Tayyabs, Needo Grill is a non-alcoholic establishment and committed to serving halal food.
- Brigadiers Indian BBQ & Beer, check halal status: While Brigadiers is known for its Indian BBQ and has a bar, some of its meat options might be halal-certified. It’s crucial to call ahead and confirm their halal meat sourcing and preparation processes to ensure there’s no cross-contamination or that specific dishes are permissible. This highlights the importance of direct verification.
- Dishoom Bombay Comfort Food, verify halal status for specific branches: Dishoom is immensely popular for its unique take on Bombay comfort food. While not all branches may be fully halal, many offer halal meat options for specific dishes. Always confirm with the specific branch you plan to visit regarding their halal certification and any policies on alcohol service.
Ethical Food Delivery Services
If dining out is not an option or preference, numerous food delivery services and platforms focus on halal food, offering convenience and ethical compliance.
- HalalEat UK-based Halal Food Delivery: A dedicated platform specifically for halal food delivery in the UK, connecting users with a wide range of halal restaurants and takeaways. This removes the guesswork and ensures that all listed establishments adhere to halal standards.
- Deliveroo / Uber Eats Filter for Halal / https://www.ubereats.com/: While not exclusively halal, both Deliveroo and Uber Eats often include filters for “halal” restaurants in their search options. Users should still exercise caution and ideally cross-reference with the restaurant’s own website or call to confirm certification, especially for lesser-known places.
Gifting Alternatives
Instead of gift cards for restaurants that might serve alcohol, consider gift options that align with Islamic values.
- Amazon Gift Cards: Versatile and widely accepted, Amazon gift cards allow recipients to choose from millions of products, including books, modest fashion, educational tools, and electronics, all of which can align with ethical consumption.
- Islamic Art & Decor Stores: Many online stores specialize in beautiful Islamic calligraphy, artwork, and home decor, offering gifts that are meaningful and permissible. Searching platforms like Etsy for “Islamic decor” can yield excellent results.
- Bookstore Gift Cards e.g., Waterstones: Books are a timeless and beneficial gift. A gift card to a reputable bookstore allows the recipient to explore a vast collection of literature, including Islamic texts, educational books, and general knowledge, fostering intellectual growth.
- Charitable Donations in Their Name: For those who prefer to give back, making a charitable donation in the recipient’s name to a reputable Islamic charity or a charity supporting humanitarian causes is a highly virtuous and permissible gift.
Cinnamonsoho.com Pricing
Cinnamonsoho.com, being an upscale contemporary Indian restaurant in Soho, operates within a pricing bracket that reflects its location, culinary expertise, and ambiance.
While the direct pricing structure for all menu items isn’t exhaustively detailed on the homepage text provided, certain clues offer insight into the general cost level. Downloadape.org Review
Indicative Pricing from Homepage
The most direct pricing information on the homepage is for their “High Chai A BRITISH AFTERNOON TEA TRADITION FROM £25 FOR TWO.” This immediately sets a baseline: a minimum of £12.50 per person for an afternoon tea experience, excluding any additional orders or service charges.
This suggests that main courses and full dining experiences will be considerably higher.
Expected Price Range for a Restaurant in Soho
Restaurants in Soho, London, particularly those associated with well-known chefs like Vivek Singh, typically command premium prices.
- Appetizers/Starters: Expect prices ranging from £10 to £20.
- Main Courses: Likely to be in the range of £25 to £45 per dish, depending on the ingredients e.g., seafood or premium cuts might be higher.
- Desserts: Typically £8 to £15.
- Drinks Non-alcoholic: Soft drinks, juices, and mocktails could range from £5 to £10.
- Alcoholic Beverages Cocktails: Given the mention of cocktails, these would likely be priced between £12 and £18 per drink, significantly increasing the overall bill.
Overall Cost of a Meal
For a typical dinner experience at Cinnamon Soho, a two-course meal with a non-alcoholic drink could easily average £50-£70 per person, excluding service charge.
If alcoholic beverages are included, this figure would significantly rise. Satnam.eu Review
The “Gift Cards” offering also implies a certain price point, as gifts are typically given for a substantial dining experience.
Value Proposition
From a purely culinary and experience perspective, for those who do not have ethical reservations, the pricing might be perceived as fair given the quality of the food, the reputation of the chef, and the prime London location.
However, for a Muslim consumer, the value proposition diminishes considerably due to the presence of alcohol and the lack of halal assurance, making the price unjustified for an ethically compromised experience.
How to Cancel Cinnamonsoho.com Booking
Given that Cinnamonsoho.com facilitates direct bookings on its website, understanding the cancellation process is crucial for users, especially if their plans change or if they realize the restaurant’s offerings don’t align with their ethical preferences.
The homepage itself doesn’t explicitly detail a cancellation policy, but standard practices for online restaurant bookings provide a clear guide. Apexacademy.org Review
Standard Restaurant Booking Cancellation Procedures
Most online restaurant booking systems, like the one likely integrated with Cinnamon Soho e.g., OpenTable or a proprietary system, follow a similar protocol for cancellations:
- Confirmation Email Link: Upon making a reservation, users typically receive a confirmation email. This email almost always contains a direct link or button to “Modify” or “Cancel” the reservation. This is the easiest and most common method.
- Online Account Login: If the user created an account on the booking platform e.g., OpenTable or directly with Cinnamon Soho, they can often log in to their account and manage their bookings from a “My Reservations” or “Upcoming Bookings” section.
- Direct Phone Call: In cases where online cancellation isn’t straightforward or if the reservation is very close to the booking time, calling the restaurant directly is the most effective approach. The homepage provides a “Call For Enquiries” number: 02076265000.
- Email Communication: As a last resort, sending an email to the restaurant’s general inquiry email address if available on their contact page can also serve as a cancellation request, especially if there’s a need for written proof.
Specific Steps for Cinnamon Soho Based on Common Practices
- Check Your Confirmation Email: Locate the booking confirmation email sent by Cinnamon Soho or their booking partner e.g., OpenTable, which is linked for gift cards. Look for a “Manage Booking,” “Change Reservation,” or “Cancel” link.
- Click the Cancellation Link: Follow the instructions provided through the link. This usually involves a few clicks to confirm the cancellation.
- Confirm Cancellation: Ensure you receive a cancellation confirmation email or a message on the booking platform confirming that your reservation has been successfully canceled. Keep this for your records.
- Call if Necessary: If you cannot find the email, the link doesn’t work, or you are canceling on short notice e.g., within 24 hours of the booking, call Cinnamon Soho directly at 02076265000 to cancel and avoid any potential no-show fees.
Cancellation Policy & No-Show Fees
While not stated on the homepage, many upscale restaurants implement a cancellation policy, especially for weekend or prime-time bookings. This often includes:
- Required Notice Period: Typically, 24 to 48 hours’ notice is required for cancellations or significant party size reductions.
- No-Show Fees: For reservations where credit card details were provided to secure the booking, a no-show fee a fixed charge per person might be applied if the cancellation notice isn’t met. It’s advisable to check the full terms and conditions presented during the booking process to avoid unexpected charges.
- Large Group Bookings: For larger parties, cancellation policies might be more stringent, requiring more notice or incurring higher fees.
Always prioritize direct communication with the restaurant for cancellations, especially if you have concerns about potential charges or specific circumstances.
Cinnamonsoho.com vs. Ethical Dining Options
When placing Cinnamonsoho.com in comparison with genuinely ethical dining options, the fundamental difference lies in adherence to Islamic dietary and lifestyle principles.
While Cinnamon Soho may offer a quality culinary experience, its operational model inherently conflicts with the requirements of a Muslim consumer due to the explicit presence of alcohol and lack of halal assurance. Timberlandcharter.org Review
Core Differences
- Alcohol Service:
- Cinnamonsoho.com: Explicitly serves “cocktails.” This means alcohol is sold, prepared, and consumed on the premises, which is forbidden in Islam. The environment itself is considered problematic for many Muslims due to the presence of intoxicants.
- Ethical Dining Options: Truly ethical and halal restaurants are entirely alcohol-free. They do not serve or permit alcohol consumption on their premises, ensuring a permissible environment.
- Halal Certification and Transparency:
- Cinnamonsoho.com: No mention of halal certification or specific halal meat sourcing on the homepage. This lack of transparency means a Muslim consumer cannot be assured that the food adheres to Islamic slaughtering rites Dhabihah or is free from impermissible ingredients e.g., pork, alcohol-based marinades, cross-contamination.
- Ethical Dining Options: These establishments often proudly display their halal certification, provide detailed information about their meat suppliers, and ensure their kitchens are free from cross-contamination with non-halal items.
- Overall Atmosphere and Entertainment:
- Cinnamonsoho.com: The “Fun, Friendly, Fearless!” tagline, combined with the “Joho Soho” link implying events, suggests a broader entertainment focus that may include podcast or activities not aligned with Islamic modesty or values.
- Ethical Dining Options: The atmosphere in such restaurants is typically more focused on the food and family-friendly dining, free from elements like loud podcast, immodest displays, or activities considered distracting from an Islamic perspective.
- Target Audience:
- Cinnamonsoho.com: Caters to a general upscale dining audience in London seeking modern Indian cuisine and a lively atmosphere, including those who consume alcohol.
- Ethical Dining Options: Primarily target Muslim consumers and anyone seeking ethical, clean, and permissible food choices, often appealing to families and those who prefer a sober environment.
Comparative Table Illustrative
Feature | Cinnamonsoho.com | Ethical/Halal Dining Options |
---|---|---|
Alcohol Service | Yes explicitly serves cocktails | No alcohol-free premises |
Halal Certification | Not mentioned, likely not fully halal | Explicitly certified, transparent sourcing |
Meat Sourcing | Unspecified, likely conventional | Dhabihah Islamic slaughter |
Cross-Contamination | High risk with non-halal ingredients/alcohol | Minimized, strict separation and cleaning |
Atmosphere | Modern, potentially lively, alcohol-present | Family-friendly, sober, permissible entertainment if any |
Target Audience | General public, fine dining enthusiasts | Muslim community, ethical consumers, families |
Price Point | Upscale London pricing | Varies, but often comparable to conventional restaurants of similar quality |
Conclusion on Comparison
For a Muslim seeking dining options, Cinnamonsoho.com, despite its culinary reputation, falls short of ethical requirements due to its alcohol service and lack of halal assurance.
True ethical alternatives prioritize adherence to Islamic principles, offering not just halal food but also a permissible environment, thereby ensuring peace of mind for the Muslim diner.
Opting for a certified halal restaurant or a home-cooked meal using halal ingredients remains the superior choice for maintaining Islamic dietary and lifestyle integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cinnamonsoho.com?
Cinnamonsoho.com is the official website for Cinnamon Soho, a contemporary Indian restaurant located in Soho, London, associated with chef Vivek Singh.
It offers reservations, menu information, and details about their dining experience. Cruisemansgarage.com Review
Does Cinnamonsoho.com offer halal food?
Based on the website’s homepage, there is no explicit mention or certification indicating that Cinnamon Soho offers halal food.
Given its typical London restaurant setting and mention of “cocktails,” it’s generally unlikely to be fully halal-certified without specific confirmation from the restaurant.
Are cocktails served at Cinnamon Soho?
Yes, the homepage of Cinnamonsoho.com explicitly states that they offer “cocktails,” indicating that alcoholic beverages are served on the premises.
What kind of cuisine does Cinnamon Soho offer?
Cinnamon Soho offers contemporary Indian cookery with a “quirky British twist,” as described on their website.
Can I book a table online at Cinnamonsoho.com?
Yes, Cinnamonsoho.com provides an online booking system directly on its homepage, allowing users to select party size, date, and time for reservations. Giofrefashion.com Review
What are the operating hours for Cinnamon Soho?
The website indicates that Cinnamon Soho is “Open all day for lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and cocktails plus Indian takeaway.” Specific timings would typically be found on a dedicated “Contact Us” or “Opening Hours” page, which is not detailed in the provided homepage text.
Is Cinnamon Soho part of a larger restaurant group?
Yes, Cinnamon Soho is the third modern Indian restaurant from Vivek Singh, known for The Cinnamon Club and Cinnamon Kitchen, making it part of a recognized restaurant group.
Does Cinnamon Soho offer takeaway or delivery?
Yes, Cinnamonsoho.com mentions “Indian takeaway” and has a prominent link stating “Take Away CINNAMON SOHO DELIVERED! READ MORE,” indicating they offer takeaway services.
Are gift cards available for Cinnamon Soho?
Yes, the website promotes “THE GIFT OF CINNAMON SOHO, PERFECT FOR ALL OCCASIONS!” with a link to purchase gift cards.
What is “High Chai” at Cinnamon Soho?
“High Chai” is described as “A BRITISH AFTERNOON TEA TRADITION” offered at Cinnamon Soho, starting from £25 for two people. Digitalbusinessinstitute.com Review
What is “Joho Soho”?
“Joho Soho” is linked on the homepage with the text “WHERE WILL WE BE IN 2015? FIND OUT.” While vague from the homepage text, it suggests past or ongoing events or a feature related to the restaurant’s activities.
How do I contact Cinnamon Soho for inquiries?
The homepage provides a phone number for inquiries: “Call For Enquiries tel:02076265000”.
What is the average price range for dining at Cinnamon Soho?
Based on the £25 for two for “High Chai” and its Soho location, dining at Cinnamon Soho is likely in the upscale range, with main courses potentially costing £25-£45 or more per dish.
Is Cinnamonsoho.com a secure website for booking?
While the provided text doesn’t explicitly state security features, reputable online booking systems typically use secure connections HTTPS to protect user data.
Users should look for the padlock icon in their browser’s address bar. Hamtramckacademy.org Review
Can I modify or cancel my booking online?
Typically, yes.
Most online restaurant booking systems send a confirmation email with a link to modify or cancel your reservation.
Alternatively, you can often manage it via an online account or by calling the restaurant directly.
Does Cinnamon Soho cater to dietary restrictions like vegetarian or vegan?
The provided homepage text does not explicitly mention catering to specific dietary restrictions, but most contemporary Indian restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian options.
For vegan or specific allergy needs, it’s advisable to check their full menu or contact the restaurant directly. Searchusapeople.com Review
Where exactly is Cinnamon Soho located?
The website states it’s “Located just a stone’s throw from the cobbles of Carnaby Street,” implying its location within the Soho area of London.
Does Cinnamon Soho have a loyalty program or special offers?
The homepage text does not mention any loyalty programs or specific special offers, beyond the “High Chai” deal and gift cards.
What kind of atmosphere does Cinnamon Soho aim for?
Cinnamon Soho describes itself as “Fun, Friendly, Fearless!”, aiming for a lively and inviting atmosphere for its diners.
Why might Cinnamonsoho.com not be suitable for Muslim diners?
Cinnamonsoho.com explicitly serves “cocktails” alcohol, and there is no mention of halal certification for their food.
This means the environment and the food may not align with Islamic dietary and lifestyle guidelines, making it unsuitable for strictly observant Muslim diners. Alliancecharter.org Review
Leave a Reply