Where the UK was once scoffed at for its food, the capital has now become one of the shining stars of European gastronomy. From sublime Michelin-starred restaurants to marvellous pub grub, you should never go hungry in the area. But, with so much to choose between, where do you begin? Check out our list of the best restaurants in London.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 23rd October 2024
Head over to Islington to find the gorgeous Bourne and Hollingsworth Buildings. Spread over several floors, the venue is a leafy, airy and light affair with a garden room and conservatory. Food is seasonal and British while the cocktail menu is filled with juicy concoctions.
Love your prime cuts of meat? Head to temper where you can feast on premium rib-eye, fresh fish and honey sriracha wings, all cooked over an open flame and served in an intimate, luxurious setting in the heart of the City.
In need of the best restaurants for your first time in London? The English Grill at The Rubens at The Palace Hotel will provide the ultimate British experience. Think Wye Valley asparagus and wild mushroom scotch eggs and succulent ribeye steaks.
One of the best restaurants in the City of London, the Botanist, Broadgate Circle serves a tasty and modern British-cum-European menu, alongside a varied selection of drinks. Come here for quirky interiors, gorgeous food and one the best atmospheres in London, any time of day.
Nestled in the heart of Farringdon, this quirky restaurant combines an unusual eating concept with a delicious menu for the ultimate experience. You won't be able to see what you're eating but you know it'll taste good.
From renowned chef Jimmy Garcia, Fire & Fromage is a cosy winter pop-up taking over the banks of the Thames. Book one of their cosy cabanas to enjoy unlimited raclette for only £35 per person, which comes with charcuterie boards, mini chocolate doughnuts and hot chocolate.
You can also enjoy delicious street food and s'more toasting in the main bar, all while admiring the stunning views of the river and beyond.
The City may be home to some of London's best restaurants, but there's a name that stands (literally), head and shoulders above the rest. Part of the beloved ETM group, join Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant not only for luxury dining but themed cocktails and rooftop drinks with a view overlooking the city.
Ember Yard is one of the best restaurants thanks to its state-of-the-art charcoal grill, which adds an intensity of flavour to its Italian and Spanish-inspired dishes. Found in the ever-buzzing area of Soho, this suave spot is a must for foodies heading out for a romantic meal.
Seeking romantic restaurants in London? Housed in the glamourous May Fair Hotel, this stunning restaurant serves a selection of Spanish and Italian dishes, alongside Mexican and Peruvian staples. Dine in the stunning open dining area, or go all out in the lavish private dining room.
For the best restaurants in Central London, Old Compton Brasserie is a staple in Soho's drinking and dining scene. From quirky weekend brunches right through to its atmospheric dinners, expect to find a vivacious space filled with colourful artwork and British fare.
Looking for a top-notch restaurant to post on the 'Gram? Megan's is bound to whet your whistle. Boasting venues across the capital, from alfresco spots in Chiswick to beautiful hubs in Kensington, these haunts boast a delicious variety of Mediterranean food and brunch dishes.
When it comes to the best restaurants in Bermondsey, Pizarro is a top choice. Head inside this gorgeous venue, where you'll be able to explore the epic range of Mediterranean bites and tapas plates (and watch the magic happen from the open kitchen), all before quaffing cocktails.
Head to The National Gallery restaurant, Ochre, to tuck into sumptuous British fare in their gorgeous space. There's afternoon tea, brunches and huge spreads at dinner, alongside a cocktail bar for afterwards or live music from the DJ booth if you're looking to stay late.
Whipping up a delicious variety of hearty fare, from salads to sharing platters, it's no wonder why 28-50 Oxford Circus is one of our top picks for restaurants in London. Whether it's date night or lunch with pals, this stunning venue is bound to impress with its plush interiors.
When it comes to the best restaurants in London for elite French cuisine, be sure to check out pretty bistro and bar Auberge in Southbank. Not only can you delve into goodies like steak frites, moules mariniere and deep-fried camembert, but also accompany it with an international selection of wine or Belgian craft beers, with stunning glimpses of The Shard from their rooftop in Waterloo. It's the perfect spot for a romantic first date or a chilled-out birthday dinner with your nearest and dearest.
When it comes to pairing wine with your meal, there's no restaurant quite like Humble Grape. Found across London, not only do the interiors flit between contemporary, classic and industrial, the plates are seasonal, high-end and paired with the finest bottles.
Looking for the best restaurants in London serving Spanish food? You won't want to miss out on the Valencian fare at ArrosQD, which is all whipped up using open fire cooking techniques. Think truffle potato souffle, rabbit paella and octopus leg across sumptuous tasting menus.
One of our favourite rooftop restaurants in London, Wagtail is a bit of an all-rounder. Not only does it boast a stunning terrace that's ideal for dining with a view, but it also totes a gorgeous eatery. Pop along to tuck into unrivalled British fare, such as Wagyu ribeye and native lobster.
Want to check out somewhere quirky for dinner? Featuring an octopus bar and aquarium seating area, The Seashell of Lisson Grove in Marylebone is a great seafood restaurant. Chow down on everything from calamari strips to prawn cocktail and classic fish 'n' chips.
One spot that's scoring 10s across the board is Holborn's Colonel Saab. Boasting striking interiors, from the vintage chandeliers to the warm red tones, as well as a mega menu of Indian delights, there's a reason this one's so popular.
Desperate to try some of the finest French dining in London? You may have just stumbled right across it. A stone's throw away from St Paul's, Cigalon isn't just bound by stunning interiors and fine wine, their Provencal inspired dishes are more than just to die for.
Ever wanted to dine on a boat? Well luckily for you, Barge East happens to be one of the best casual restaurants in London thanks to its laid-back vines. A top choice for date nights, this Hackney staple even has picturesque views to complement your feasting.
If you're looking for the best tapas restaurants in London, Iberica is here to lend a hand. They're serving up plenty of delicious Spanish small plates, including croquetas, jamon Iberico and tortillas, in beautiful surrounds.
Soon becoming one of the most famous restaurants in London thanks to its cult following on social media, Circolo Popolare offers up jaw-dropping decor, Italian bites and quirky cocktails in the heart of Fitzrovia.
Chuku's is one of the capital's best-kept secrets - a hidden gem in the form of the world's first Nigerian tapas restaurant, born from brother-sister duo Emeka and Ifeyinwa Frederick's creative minds. Step foot through its glass doors and enter a contemporary coral-coloured space, inspired by adobe clay, decked out in vibrant artwork alongside minimalist light fixtures. As soon as you get your chops around the jollof rice, honey suya prawns and plantains waffles, you'll soon see why it's one of the best eateries our city has to offer. And if that doesn't seal the deal? Have a pint of Nigerian Guinness.
Located in the heart of Shoreditch, with a second venue in Hackney, Brat is an intimate, stylish restaurant that specialises in authentic Basque cuisine. Run by former Kitty Fisher head chef Tomos Parry, the kitchen cooks up wood-fired dishes like whole roasted turbot, beef sirloin and leeks with fresh cheese, alongside a dreamy burnt cheesecake for dessert. Of course, there's an extensive wine list to wash it all down too.
