Soleto

Our Story

Where heritage meets the table.

George is Greek. He learned to cook Italian in London, and by 30 he'd opened three of his own restaurants. Soleto is what happened when he and Dominika put everything they'd learned into one dining room opposite the Mayflower Theatre.

Chef George Jiojioras

George Jiojioras

George's journey began in the kitchens of Greece, where food was never just sustenance, it was the centre of family life. Growing up surrounded by the aromas of fresh herbs, grilled seafood, and slow-cooked stews, he developed an instinctive understanding of Mediterranean flavours.

He came to England at 21, started work in an Italian restaurant, and within three years had opened his first trattoria. By 30 he had opened three restaurants. His passion led him deeper into the art of Italian cooking, crafting pasta by hand, mastering the delicate balance of a perfect risotto, and sourcing the finest ingredients with uncompromising care.

Today at Soleto, George is the chef patron, a role he describes as near-extinct in modern dining. His kitchen is one where Greek soul meets Italian precision, and where every plate is prepared with the same love and attention he learned at his family's table. Over the years he has cooked for the likes of Ralph Fiennes, Peter Andre, Paul Whitehouse, and Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan.

Craft, every service.

Fresh seafood, oysters, lobster, Dover sole, scallops, takes pride of place alongside hand-rolled pasta, premium steaks, and dishes that change with the seasons.

The daily specials board, handwritten by George himself, reflects what's freshest and most inspiring that day. From whole salt-baked fish to a perfectly seared Tomahawk steak, every special is a moment of culinary creativity.

Chef George at work
Interior detail at Soleto

A warm welcome from Dominika.

While George creates in the kitchen, Dominika ensures every guest feels at home. Together, they've built Soleto into a place where warmth and hospitality matter as much as the food.

From the moment you walk in, you're welcomed into the family. Whether it's recommending the perfect wine to pair with your Dover sole, or setting up the private dining room for a celebration, the personal touch is what makes Soleto different.

The room.

Commercial Road, directly opposite the Mayflower Theatre. Deep teal walls, gold-framed artwork, soft brass lamps, and white linen. An atmosphere that moves from relaxed afternoon lunches to intimate candlelit evenings.

Brass table lamp
Gold-framed painting
Gold-framed artwork on teal walls
Oyster artwork and flowers
Fresh flowers
Candlelit table through blue columns

On the record.

#1 Best Restaurants in Southampton

The Tour Guy, 2025

Top 5 Italian Restaurants in Southampton

Southampton Times

Travellers' Choice 2024 & 2025

TripAdvisor

Food Hygiene Rating 5/5

Southampton City Council

Most Deserving of the Michelin Guide

Readers' Choice, Daily Echo, 2026

Best Seafood in Southampton

Readers' Choice, Daily Echo, 2025

Best Places for Dinner in Southampton

Readers' Choice, Daily Echo, 2024

Come and meet us.

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