Atlantica - 01.11.2000, Page 31

A T L A N T I C A 29
myself with just one more: The Gay
Hussar at 2 Greek Street. Those in the
know say this is one of the best
Hungarian restaurants in Europe. It’s a
cosy, wood-panelled room with por-
traits of Hungarian artists on the walls,
perfect for an intimate meal à deux.
All around Soho, along Oxford
Street, the Charing Cross Road and
Regent Street, flows an inexorable
torrent of human beings. At least half
of them are among the 28 million
visitors who flock to London every
year. It’s a strange feeling to step from
these great teeming thoroughfares into
the narrow streets of Soho. The crowds
disperse, the speed of life slows down.
Admittedly, there is a steady stream of
people moving along Old Compton
Street, the area’s main artery, but the
mood is different, the frantic pulse has
eased to a gentler rhythm. The pave-
ment cafés and knots of drinkers stand-
ing outside the pubs have a more
relaxed air.
Some of the locals fear that Soho is
gradually becoming too sanitised, sac-
rificing its character to tourism and
mainstream culture. Who knows?
Perhaps Soho will eventually go the
way of Covent Garden. But for the
moment you can still find a stimulating
mix of different cultures, excellent food
and a frankly unbelievable cross-
section of people. Make the most of it
while it lasts. 
Jón Kaldal is editor of Atlantica.
Translated by Victoria Cribb.
SOHO
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