Iconic institutions, low-key hideaways and glamorous spots make up this essential hit list. Whether you're after a celebrity sighting or fancy dining at the best restaurants in the city, we've rounded up most legendary places that are known around the world. From sky-high settings to award-winning menus, here's the most famous restaurants in London.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Craving somewhere quirky for dinner? Flaunting an epic octopus bar and aquarium seating area, The Seashell of Lisson Grove in Marylebone is a great seafood restaurant that sings of the ocean to extreme. Eat everything from calamari strips to prawn cocktail and classic fish 'n' chips.
From the instantly recognisable interiors to the mouthwatering menu, Quaglino's is a staple of the London dining scene. Serving hungry Londoners for almost a century, this St James's gem is the go-to for classic cocktails, impressive dinners and weekend brunching.
Brought to you by the combined efforts Oisin Rogers, Charlie Carroll and Ashley Palmer-Watts (also the brains behind everywhere from Flat Iron to Guinea Grill), The Devonshire is already a famous destination despite only opening in late 2023. The gastro menu makes use of UK produce and in-house butchery to create the best versions of your British favourites in the heart of Soho.
Food isn't the only thing that's elevated at this slick City space. Nestled on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, Duck and Waffle is known for its 24 hour menu, unrivalled views and signature dishes; from the eponymous plate to the ox cheek doughnut.
The second venture following the City site, this West End restaurant offers a unique mix of Brazilian, Peruvian and Japanese cuisine. When it's not hosting a swanky celeb-filled party, head to Sushisamba for leafy decor and beautifully plated cooking.
Recognised far and wide for their stunning turbot, Brat is the brainchild of chef Tomos Parry. Located in Shoreditch, this Michelin-starred restaurant has a strong Basque influence; with neutral decor, modern lighting and a strong focus on well-cooked seafood and delectable wines.
Another Michelin-starred spot, Hakkasan champions modern Cantonese food, with world-class drinks to match. Make your way through freshwater prawns, cuttlefish shui mai and king crab dumplings, in what promises to be some of the best dim sum in London.
Taking its name from the Marylebone street on which it lays, Chiltern Firehouse is one of the top places for celebrity spotting in London. With chef Nuno Mendes at the helm of the kitchen, it's not so easy to get a table... but it's well worth the wait.
Ever the sexy spot, this restaurant and bar centres on East Asian food, late night bites and cracking cocktails. It's a numbers game here; not only are there over 400 bottles of Japanese of whisky, but there's even £1 million-worth of artwork by Frank Gehry and Damien Hirst.
Haven't heard of Sketch? Well, you've most definitely seen it. From artwork plastered on the walls to the social-famous egg toilets and that previously pink (now yellow) gallery room, this Maddox Street restaurant is instantly distinguishable amongst Londoners and tourists alike.
One of the most famous places for all-day dining, The Ivy Cafe is an iconic British brasserie. Whether you're after breakfast, brunch, afternoon tea or dinner, you'll find a variety of menus and decadent interiors to match.
Known for its beautiful decor, drool-worthy desserts and pasta served in cheese wheels, Circolo Popolare is the Big Mamma restaurant that's already earnt quite the name for itself. Book your spot in advance to experience the Fitzrovia favourite for yourself.
