Soleto
Soleto restaurant dining room

The Jiojioras Family

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.

Head Chef George Jiojioras holding two cuts of meat in the kitchen

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 brings all of this together as 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 and Passion

Our kitchen is where the magic happens. 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's hands at work
Elegant interior details at Soleto

A Warm Welcome

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 are just as important 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 special celebration, the personal touch is what makes Soleto different.

Our Home

Set on Commercial Road, directly opposite the Mayflower Theatre, Soleto occupies a space that's as warm and inviting as the food. Deep teal walls, gold-framed artwork, soft brass lamps, and white linen tablecloths create an atmosphere that moves seamlessly from relaxed afternoon lunches to intimate candlelit evenings.

Brass table lamp at Soleto Italian restaurant Southampton
Gold-framed painting at Soleto Southampton
Gold-framed artwork on teal walls at Soleto
Oyster artwork and fresh flowers at Soleto Southampton
Fresh flowers on the dining table at Soleto
Candlelit table through blue columns at Soleto

Loved by Guests & Critics

#1

Best Restaurants in Southampton

The Tour Guy, 2025

Top 5

Italian Restaurants in Southampton

Southampton Times

Travellers'
Choice

2024 & 2025

TripAdvisor

5/5

Food Hygiene Rating

Southampton City Council

In the Press

“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