Stepping into The Toucan on a busy weekday evening, I was immediately struck by the buzzing atmosphere. Tucked away in Soho’s streets, close to Tottenham Court Road Station, this bar has an intimate feel, even when packed with people from all walks of life. The walls are filled with Guinness memorabilia, giving the space a sense of nostalgia. It's clear from the get-go that this isn’t just a bar—it’s an homage to the Irish stout.

The Guinness Experience

I broke through all the after-work drinkers and spotted one of the only stools at the bar available, soon ordering my first pint of Guinness. What immediately caught my eye behind the tiny wooden bar was that three of the tap stations were dedicated to Guinness with an array of young and vibrant bartenders running the operation, with one bartender specifically on hand for cleaning and regular keg changes.

Once the bartender had dealt with his onslaught of large orders he was able to pour me my pint. And I can say without hesitation, it lived up to its reputation. The pour was smooth, with a perfect creamy head that wobbled perfectly above the rim of the glass. The taste? Rich, velvety, and reminiscent of the Guinness I drank in Sligo, Ireland. To non-Guinness drinkers it may be hard to understand what makes a good Guinness - it is not necessarily the flavour but more the texture, particularly the creaminess of it which upon finishing the drink should leave the empty glass' entire interior dressed in a light painting of bubbles. The bartenders here take their time with each pour, and it shows.

If you’re looking to try something beyond the classic pint, The Toucan also offers Guinness cocktails. Yes, you read that right—Guinness with a twist. While I didn’t venture into cocktail territory on this visit, it’s on my list for next time. It’s a creative way to enjoy the iconic stout, especially if you’re curious about how it pairs with other flavours.

The Atmosphere and Clientele

One of the things that makes The Toucan special is the mix of people. On any given night, you’ll find a blend of regulars, Guinness lovers, tourists, and the occasional curious passer-by. During my visit there was group of international students, social office workers, a group of retired men and even some drag queens preparing to go out to a show - demonstrating the bars inclusivity. I did over hear one regular mention it was "moody" the last time they visited, but this was far from the experience I had and I even ended up having a friendly conversation with another customer and bartender, something not very common in London.

The Toucan is also a huge draw for celebrity Guinness lovers. Jason Mamoa has never shied away from his relationship with Guinness and recommended The Toucan as "the best place for Guinness to his many followers on Instagram. So keep an eye out for celebrities having a casual drink here.

I do recommend to avoid sitting at the bar, as it felt overwhelming being surrounded by two or three people at a time trying to order their round. It's worth noting that most people, especially on a warmer evenings, will stand outside with their drink and all outside drinks must be served in a plastic cup. Around 7pm they do open the downstairs bar which offers cocktails and additional seating but again it is not particularly big. But the size of the bar is where it shines. The Toucan is meant to be an intimate bar with an undeniable charm in the clinking of glasses the hum of conversation, and the shared love of Guinness.

Memorabilia: A Trip Down Guinness Lane

The walls of The Toucan are a visual ode to Guinness. From vintage posters to rare memorabilia, it’s as much a Guinness museum as it is a bar. One poster in particular caught my eye—a retro ad of a toucan balancing a pint on its beak. Even the Guinness taps have a retro feel looking like something from a by-gone era. There are a mix of colours throughout the bar and plenty of vintage advertisements for customers to admire.

Guinness and the toucan became synonymous following John Gilroy's 1935 poster campaign - 'Lovely day for a Guinness'. Several animals were used in prior ads, including sea turtles, ostriches and a seal stealing a Guinness. But it was the the toucan balancing a Guinness on its contrasting orange and yellow beak that captured the hearts of audiences. The toucan has been used ever since across multiple campaigns throughout the decades and is the key inspiration for this pub in Soho.

So, is The Toucan The Best Guinness Experience In London?

Whether you're a die-hard Guinness fan or just someone who appreciates a cosy, quirky bar, The Toucan is worth a visit. It’s the kind of place where you go for a pint but stay for the atmosphere. With its rich history, unbeatable Guinness, and welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect escape from Soho’s more hectic streets.

The Toucan is best enjoyed with a group of friends, but be prepared for it to be packed on busy periods. If you want a quieter experience, I’d recommend popping in earlier in the day. Next time, I’m definitely trying a Guinness cocktail to see how they put a twist on the classic.

Have you got a favourite spot for Guinness? - let me know in the comments.