WITH THE HIGHEST concentration of bars, clubs and after-hours action, Soho still reigns as London’s nightlife central. Specialty cocktail bars are hot — places like The London Gin Club serve more than 100 different gins with tonics to match. Along with the classiest cocktails, Soho is known for its diversity — both ethnic and lifestyle — and as a place that welcomes LGBTQ travelers.

Diversity shines, too, in the dining: Iberian ham with fine Spanish wines at Enrique Tomás Spanish Deli and Wine Bar; Basque pintxos at Pix; dim sum in an opium-den atmosphere. A good way to discover venues the insiders know is with Eating London Tours. The lively guide heads straight to reserved tables at the latest hot spots to sample some of Soho’s best. To take in a West End show, reserve online or stop for same-day ticket deals at the TKTS kiosk in Leicester Square.

There’s always action at nearby Covent Garden, where crowded pubs and bars overflow into the streets, but for an edgier vibe, head to the fast-emerging East End — hip, ethnically diverse, LGBTQ-friendly and catering to all tastes. Look in the smart shops alongside the Spittlefields Market for the hottest in bespoke tailoring; style-conscious men with an eye for value will find Topman General Store open until 7 p.m. In the surrounding streets discover everything from traditional pubs (don’t miss the 17th-century atmosphere of The English Restaurant) to classy renditions of bacon sandwiches at the hot new nose-to-tail restaurant, St. John Bread and Wine.

The three blocks of Brick Lane, known as Curry Mile, are reputed to serve more than 300 varieties (London has more curry restaurants than Mumbai). Beyond The Old Truman Brewery’s hip food hall and performance spaces, Brick Lane morphs into funky boutiques, Goth hangouts and some old-style places for a late-night snack, like the 24-hour Brick Lane Beigel Bake. Its juicy salt beef carved onto a fresh-from-the-oven bagel draws lines nightly from the adjacent big indie music venue, 93 Feet East.

For a more sedate British experience and a quiet atmosphere for entertaining clients, reserve a table for a late afternoon tea at the Corinthia Hotel’s elegant Lobby Lounge. Relax over Champagne and fine tea while indulging in freshly baked scones, sandwiches and a sumptuous array of cakes.