45 best restaurants in London that our editors can't stop returning to
London's restaurant scene is better than ever before, being host to an impressive range of cuisines from across the world that cater to all tastes and needs. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new go-to or are after some much-needed inspiration for your next date night, save yourself the frantic last-minute searching with our round-up of the best restaurants in London.
From fine dining favourites to casual eats, established institutions of the capital’s restaurant scene to the new kids on the block, our editors have been busy (ahem) testing new food spots across the city. We're looking for several things when it comes to picking the best restaurants. Naturally, the quality and taste of the food is paramount, but beyond this, we're after a buzzy atmosphere, attentive service, reasonable value and generally excellent vibes.
So, if, like us, eating out is one of your favourite things to do, but sifting through underwhelming restaurants on Google Maps is not, then look no further. Promising delicious food and sterling service to match, uncover local gems to add to your regular rotation, from unfussy eateries with flavourful food that hits right every time to elevated dining experiences you won’t quickly forget. You're welcome.
Ahead, the very best restaurants in London to visit in 2026.
©johncarey2024/ IBAI1. Best steak restaurant
90-92 Bartholomew Close, London, EC1A 7BN
I've lived in London for the best part of a decade, and one of my favourite parts of being based in the capital is the list of restaurants – that is still as long as my arm – I keep to visit. Myself and my boyfriend aim to visit one new restaurant on our list every month (varying success rates, depending on how busy life gets) and for the longest time, Basque-inspired steak restaurant Ibai has been at the very top of my partners' wishlist.
As such, when I got invited by the team at the end of last year, I jumped at the chance – well knowing I'd be my boyfriend's favourite person on the planet for a good matter of weeks. I'm not sure whether it was the luxe, romantic and exclusive feel of the restaurant (it's set close to St. Paul's cathedral and the entire dining space is hidden behind curtains that you pass through upon entry), the impeccable wine, the open-plan kitchen (I loved watching the chefs as they worked) or the fact that I visited after my final day in the office before a two-month sabbatical – but something made my meal at Ibai my most favourite dining experience I've ever had in London.
It could well have been the food, also, I suppose. Ibai has recently been named best steak restaurant in the UK, and I can easily see why. The perfectly-aged Galician Blond Ribeye Steaks melted in my mouth, the fries were crispy and wonderful, and the selection of sauces which came with every meat dish were to-die-for. Their peppercorn sauce is my new Roman Empire. Starters included the ever-popular Croque Ibai (so good, you must order it), and dessert was Ibai Gâteau Basque with Poached Rhubarb. Truly, among the most mouth-watering of puddings I've ever treated myself to. Book a table before it gets too popular, I beg you.
.jpg)
Jerome Galland2. Best for showstopping Italian dishes in a lively setting
77-78 Marylebone High St, W1U 5JX
The latest opening from the beloved Big Mamma Group, whose Italian institutions Gloria and Circolo Popolare you're probably already familiar with, Carlotta is a more ‘intimate’ setting tucked away in luxurious Marylebone. But there's nothing small-time about the interiors – as Instagrammable as ever, with toilets decorated in floor-to-ceiling mirrors, red lighting and a statue of the Virgin Mary – or the menu.
This time, there's no pizza; instead, the menu is split into antipasti, primi and secondi. The truffle fettuccine with lashings of parmesan isn't to be missed, nor is the ‘wedding cake’ dessert, a sponge dripped in strawberries, cream and marshmallow chunks. So, let it be known that we warned you: make sure you save room for dessert.
Charlie McKay3. Best West African cuisine
Arch 208, 18 Stoney St, SE1 9AD
From the brains behind Michelin-starred Akoko comes its just-south-of-the-river sister, Akara, where creative West African dishes draw hungry crowds from the arches of Borough Market and far beyond.
It would be criminal not to start with a few of the titular akara – crispy yet fluffy-on-the-inside buns, traditionally made as black bean fritters, but reimagined here with various fillings including crab kulikuli, prawn, marinated tomato and celeriac. If you can, order one of each and share.
Main dishes are brimming with flavour and don't skimp on portion size. Spatchcock Lagos chicken drizzled in hot sauce, succulent slabs of short rib suya and the most delicious sea bream bathed in caramelised onion and lemon sauce.
Don't sleep on the sides: plantain mixed with chunks of charred octopus and an efik rice dish that was so good we almost ordered another.
4. Best for a fun date night
61 – 67 Great Eastern Street, EC2A 3HU
So it’s Friday night, you’re in Shoreditch… looking for a fun restaurant to kick things off for the weekend, but still keeping it sophisticated. Enter: UBA. Based in the Hart Shoreditch Hotel, the atmosphere is escapist – a deep house music soundtrack really gets you ready for the weekend ahead, but that's just the beginning of what's on offer.
Influenced by the diverse nature of South Asian cuisine, the small plates truly standout here. Highlights were the watercress and fuji apple salad (fresh and crisp – no Granny Smith here) and the spiced lamb bao buns with hibiscus, which managed to be pillowy soft as well as zesty and tingly. Extra points for the rock shrimp-style tempura with kimchi garlic mayo, arguably the most more-ish dish on the menu.
Need we mention the cocktails? Try a ‘Blushing Gheisha’ if you love lychee – you won't be disappointed. Or for dessert, opt for the lychee jasmine and raspberry crème brûlée, which is undoubtedly the star of the sweets. The perfect spot for a sharing meal that may just leave you wanting to check in at the hotel…
.jpg)
5. Best for Michelin-quality European cuisine
1 Dover Yard, London W1J 8NE
Dovetale is the latest venture by the two-Michellin-starred chef, Tom Sellers. It's based inside the beautiful 1 Hotel Mayfair, a short stroll from Green Park tube station and pretty much opposite The Ritz.
You can expect a Tom Seller's style reimagined European menu with things like made-that-morning burrata, carpaccio of English Wagyu wrapped around beef dripping chips and Herdwick lamb rack with salsa verde. *Drooling*
The star of the show at Dovetale has to be the Knickerbocker Glory trolley. You can watch your very own custom showcase sundae being constructed right in front of you. There are over eight ice cream flavours and a bunch of different toppings and sauces. You'll leave feeling like a school-kid again - in a good way.
6. Best for a high-quality fusion taster menu
35 The Market, London WC2E 8RF
and
Heron Tower, London EC2N 4AYAt this point, it feels like SUSHISAMBA is pretty much synonymous with high-quality fusion dining done right. Serving up the best of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian dishes, diners are spoilt for delicious options, from zingy yellowtail taquitos to expertly grilled red miso and lime lamb chops.
Choosing favourites is hard here, so to ensure you get the full experience we advise opting for the signature Taste of Samba menu which allows you to work your way through their very best hits, including the aforementioned in addition to melt in your mouth kanpachi tiradito, delicate California rolls and a blissfully indulgent chocolate banana cake situation. There are truly no misses here.
With locations at Heron Tower and Covent Garden, even in the latter you’re guaranteed a stunning rooftop view across the piazza, with the lively setting making this a perfect pick for a special occasion. In fact, with their newly launched Covent Garden monthly brunch series featuring a live DJ and samba dancers to boot, do you even need an excuse for an occasion?
%2520(3).jpg)
James McDonald7. Best for elegant British-French brasserie classics
Stratton St, London W1J 8LB
A London institution, Langan’s offers stylish interiors, elevated food and sterling service. Set in Mayfair just a stone's throw from Green Park station, the timeless restaurant draws together French brasserie classics with nostalgic British flair.
Walls are adorned with original artworks from the likes of David Hockney, Lucian Freud, and Francis Bacon, while natural light fills the dining room, making for a charming meal setting.
When it comes to food, though there's no such thing as a bad order at Langan's, we'd recommend that you start with their iconic spinach soufflé or delicate, melt in your mouth yellowfin tuna soaked in black truffle and yuzu that will have you fantasising about it days later. For mains, Langan's generous serving of rich beef wellington wrapped in perfectly flaky pastry proved a showstopper, though other classics such as fish pie and bangers and mash are sure to go down a treat.
If you make it to dessert, options include the likes of Langan's Mess, crème brulée and chocolate tart. An experience from start to finish, you'll leave wanting to plan your next visit.
Thomas Alexander8. Best for crowd-pleasing classics
Central, 25 Sheldon Square, London W2 6EY
The pretty Paddington Basin is an ideal spot for meeting friends for a weeknight catch up – so Smith’s Bar & Grill is one of our preferred spots for a girl dinner. Here you'll find buzzy vibes with music every night of the week, and a menu that's sure to please even a large group.
With a typical Brasserie-style offering, you'll find traditionally French starters such as beef tartare and pan-fried scallops – though a simple dish of buttered asparagus with truffle is just as yum. For main, the steaks are the heroes at Smith's… but leave room for the ‘cheesecake dome’ for dessert, which is the true star of the show.
%2520(3).jpg)
David Robson9. Best for a lobster feast
10 Wardour St, London W1D 6QF
(and multiple other locations)Burger & Lobster is a go-to favourite that consistently delivers on hearty comfort food. In a welcoming American diner style setup, the restaurant’s buzzy atmosphere, paired with attentive service, makes it a great choice for both a low-key dinner or equally more of an occasion.
If you're visiting one of their many London locations, you might as well do it right with one of their classics: a juicy burger, fresh lobster or their famous lobster roll, plated up with crispy fries and a tangy salad. That said, if you're after something else, there's no shortage of choice here, with generous portions and cocktail accompaniments that go down far too easily.
Rusne Draz10. Best for refined Japanese dining
Second Floor, Pantechnicon, 19 Motcomb St, London SW1X 8LB
Situated in the now TikTok famous Pantechnicon, Sachi is a celebration of Japanese food at its finest. Restaurant interiors are sleek yet effortless, while the rooftop bar and generous terrace space offers a more laid back vibe that can be enjoyed through the seasons.
With an extensive menu offering everything from rib eye robata to mushroom tempura maki rolls, everything at Sachi is as aesthetic as it is delicious. We advise starting with their wonderfully fresh blue fin carpaccio (new to the menu!), continuing on with some melt in your mouth nigiri and expertly crafted spicy tuna rolls before graduating on to their expertly prepared robata aubergine, black cod and lamb chops. Black sesame ice cream with sour cherries makes for the perfect way to round off your meal, with this restaurant being a total treat for the senses.
Thomas Alexander11. Best for mouthwatering South American cuisine (and a show)
8-9 Argyll St, London W1F 7TF
This South American gem, nestled in the heart of the West End just off Oxford Street, is the perfect date night spot. The newly-launched ‘Nativo’ series sees a new chef's tasting menu take centre stage, where fresh ceviche and mouthwatering wagyu tomahawk are served to a backdrop of incredible Latin dance and vocal performances.
Don't miss the show-stopping cocktails; we had ‘The Sun’ (South American gin blended with refreshing citrus) and the ‘Paloma Picante’ (tequila and cointreau with sweet agave and grapefruit). A truly special experience for a special occasion.
Courtesy of The Berkeley12. Best hotel restaurant
Wilton Pl, London SW1X 7RL
“If you’re on the search for a truly special restaurant – for a very special occasion – I cannot recommend La Mome enough. It’s housed on the ground floor of one of London’s most beautiful hotels, The Berkley, for one – which only makes any visit all the better. But even as a restaurant in its own, I’d urge you to visit.
"The dining room exudes elegance – you’ll be greeted at the door and whisked through an effortless space which boasts sweeping views of Belgravia – with Skim Aarons’ legendary photographs hung on the walls and crisp white table cloths atop every dining spot. A pianist plays to create a beautiful soundtrack to your meal, during week nights (choose the weekend DJ nights for something a little livelier) – and the service is almost as exceptional as the imaginative cocktails are. As for the food? Divine. I tried the flame-grilled octopus, Aperol Salmon Gravlax and the Veal Milenese.”
Jack Hardy13. Best quintessentially British
The Strand, WC2R 0EZ
The Savoy has a certain type of London charm. Walk into the newly renovated Gallery Restaurant, and it’s like you’ve stepped back in time.
Find yourself here at any time of the day, as service runs from breakfast to lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, or even just coffee & cocktails. A mix of contemporary and old-world glamour, the space is dressed in earthy velvet chairs, quirky chandeliers, and towering real palm trees.
If you don’t make a booking, you might be lucky to get one of the four seats at the beautiful marble-clad centrepiece bar, but when I arrived, there wasn’t an empty seat in the house, so booking ahead is highly encouraged.
The ambience is a dreamy mix of soft jazz, clinking glasses, and dapper waiters in their finely pressed waistcoats and bow ties, delivering impeccable service.
Food at The Gallery is everything you’d expect and more, and family-style sharing is encouraged. On offer, delicious plates of sole tacos, tuna tataki, lobster rolls and backwater oysters - add caviar as desired. Traditional dishes such as the club sandwich, Caesar salad or croque-monsieur are some of the best in London and the mocktails are just as delicious as the cocktails (if not better) and if you have a sweet tooth, the chocolate tart is a must.
14. Best for fresh sushi and sleek interiors
5th Floor, 240 Regent Street, W1B 3BR
Offering elevated Japanese dining in the heart of London, Aqua Kyoto is a treat for the senses. With a rooftop promising stunning cityscape views, its sleek interior sets the tone for a suitably chic evening on all accounts.
Service is efficient and friendly, while food options are varied to suit all tastes, ranging from fresh sushi to flaky salmon and expertly cooked wagyu beef skewers and heaps of noodles. The standout favourite from our visit proved to be the beautifully delicate sashimi platter which we’ve not stopped thinking about since. Though on the pricier side, Aqua Kyoto makes for a perfect date night spot when you’re after something a little more special.
Courtesy of Alba London15. Best for a post-shopping feed
70 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1ER
“Besides the delicious food – the vibe and the location at Alba are both exceptional. It’s located almost bang opposite Harrods, so after a busy day of shopping in Knightsbridge, it’s the perfect, relaxed space to recoup and drink wine. Everything in the restaurant, from the plates to the desserts and the tablecloths, is inspired by the Amalfi Coastline. Expect citrus trees, Venetian floors and sunset inspired tableware.
“The menu is traditional with a modern twist – and the portion sizes are generous. I’d say you’ll want to be spending a minimum of £150 per person to really get the Alba experience: this would get you a starter or some sharing starters – plus a pasta and a meat dish. Meat dishes are between £40 and £110, pasta dishes are between £28 and £60, and starters are between £18 and £55.
"We tried the aubergine parmigiana (a must-try), as well as the Amalfia Taglioni and the roast chicken. As for the service? It was wonderful. Your coat will be lifted from your shoulders as soon as you reach the top of your stairs, and you won’t have to lift a finger until you leave.”
16. Best for Michelin-starred, wood-fired cooking
12 St George St, W1S 2FB
If you want to really impress a date, reserve a spot at the HUMO counter overlooking the four-metre long wood-fired grill, where masterful chefs use different woods at different temperatures to create exquisite wood-fired food using precision-focussed Japanese techniques.
This place won its first Michelin star at the start of 2024, just a year after opening on the backstreets of Mayfair, and it's easy to see why. First comes the Japanese-inspired raw menu, where the yellowtail with citrus sauce and Colombian coffee from the chef’s family farm is a must order. Then comes the smoked vegetable course (don't sleep on the mushrooms), followed by fish grilled in whisky barrels (the hand-dived Orkney scallop with white nectarine melts in your mouth), then the ‘embers’ course of daily-changing meats and fish. An unforgettable date night spot.
Courtesy of STK17. Best for quality steak
336-337 Strand, London, WC2R 1HA
STK is more than just London’s top-rated steakhouse—it’s a destination. This long-reigning spot inside London’s ME Hotel is perfect for tasty lunches, boozy brunches, romantic date nights or pre-drinks. It’s the place to be if you enjoy a high-energy dining experience, with the addition of cool DJ sets in the afternoons and evenings. House music and R&B sounds fill the room (particularly loudly on weekends) and the team are delightfully on the ball, ensuring no glass is left empty. Even if steak isn’t your thing, the seafood selection is just as impressive; the oysters are delicious or try the black cod, roasted salmon or pumpkin ravioli. And for an intimate gathering, where a little privacy is preferred, their stunning private dining room is just right for any special occasion.
For those who favour East London over West, STK Stratford sets the stage for the ultimate date night, just as buzzy, with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing breathtaking views of the London skyline and nearby canal – pure romance.
18. Best for dancing and dim sum
17 Berkeley St, London W1J 8EA
Most places in Mayfair have a sexy feel, but there’s something about Park Chinois. Once you step inside off the rainy grey streets of London, you’re welcomed with inviting low lighting, opulent glimmers of gold, and as you wind down the staircase, you feel the vibrations of the live entertainment beneath your feet as they intensify, then you arrive at the lively main restaurant, instantly forgetting that it’s actually midday in rainy London.
Park Chinois is justifiably well known for its traditional and delicious asian food and dim sum, we’ve tried it and it’s to die for. What really sets the restaurant apart from others is their live performances including singers, saxophonists, DJs, bongo players and dancers. If you want that nightclub feel during the day, then this is absolutely the place for you.
19. Best for perfectly prepared fish
1 Regent Street Saint James's, SW1Y 4NW
Showcasing the best of simple yet refined Greek cuisine, Estiatorio Milos is a testament to letting fresh seafood speak for itself. Situated in the heart of London’s St. James, the restaurant is a light, airy setting where diners are invited to indulge in the very best of Mediterranean fare.
Though choosing favourites is hard here, the fish platter was a standout delight to the senses, allowing raw, unfussy fish to take centre stage. Equally, should you want your fish grilled, fried or otherwise, you need only browse Milos's on ice market selection of fish that features sea bass to red snapper and everything in between.
Being a Greek restaurant you'd be amiss without ordering their expertly prepared Greek salad, though the perfectly crisped, wafer thin fried courgette is also not to be missed. Everything here feels as though it's been constructed with the utmost precision and guaranteed you'll leave planning your next visit.
Luke Santilli Photography20. Best for a hearty Italian food in a homely setting
40 Dean St, London W1D 4PX
A warm, homely setting in the heart of London’s bustling Soho, 40 Dean Street serves up fresh and flavourful Italian fare in its cosy central location.
While choosing favourites is hard, here we’d advise that you make their juicy pan-fried tiger prawns one of your starters as well as their wonderfully crispy squid and courgette.
With their pasta freshly prepared on site daily, a visit to 40 isn’t complete without at least sampling one of their pasta dishes. Of these, we recommend the seafood linguine with a rich cherry tomato bisque and brandy sauce, though truly you can’t go far wrong with any of their hearty offerings.
Portions here are incredibly generous – so if you can’t find room for dessert then we completely get it, but for those willing to take on the challenge we strongly advise that you round off your visit with a salted caramel cheesecake, paired perfectly with pistachio ice cream.
Robin Hunter Blake21. Best all-round experience
14-16 Davies St, London W1K 3DR
This Mayfair spot perfectly blends relaxed daytime dining with vibrant late-night energy, offering more than just a meal – it’s an experience. Start with the signature rigatoni à la vodka, rich and creamy with just the right amount of kick. Then dive into the Wagyu Big Mac, a luxurious take on a fast-food classic, or treat yourself to the fresh and delicate scallop carpaccio. Every dish is really crafted to impress.
But it’s not just about the food – Mister Nice is known for its carefully curated music, setting the vibe for a laid-back yet lively atmosphere. Whether it’s a vinyl DJ spinning smooth tunes or the elegant sounds of a live pianist, the music enhances the entire dining experience.
Don’t miss their new weekend brunch, where you can find boujee twists on classic dishes like scrambled eggs and smoked salmon with indulgent add-ons such as caviar and truffle croque monsieur. Pair it all with a glass of bubbly from Della Vite Prosecco, and you’ve got the perfect formula for an afternoon to remember.
22. Best for sushi lovers
Various locations.
With 10 locations across London, Sticks'n'Sushi is a safe bet for delicious sushi and all the trimmings, from melt in the mouth beef tataki to perfectly crisped karage chicken.
With all the maki combinations you could possibly want for and everything in between, dishes at Sticks'n'Sushi locations are consistently high-quality. Seafood dishes such as salmon tartare are exceptionally fresh, while simple favourites such as meat skewers are well executed.
It’s the type of place that no matter how full you are, you can always manage one more bite. And make sure that you do, because you won’t want to leave without trying their dark chocolate fondant with a gooey matcha core, vanilla ice cream and matcha cookie crumble. Heaven.
23. Best for Mediterranean food on a special ocassion
1-3 Mount St, W1K 3NB
Bacchanalia, overlooking Mayfair's Berkeley Square, is best known for its striking decor (read: imposing statues of goddesses including Venus and Aphrodite, that hang from the impressively-high ceiling). But their incredible Mediterranean menu is worth shouting about, too. “Everything here is created to be shared," Culinary Director Athinagoras Kostakos says – from the Sea Break Carpaccio served with lemon and wild oregano dressing, avruga caviar and green apple, to the Lobster Paccheri Pasta with black truffle and creamy bisque sauce. Though the drinks might be a tad too good to split with your other half. Dive into the 650-strong wine list, with a ‘discovery’ list of Greek wines, as well as ‘heritage’ old-world Italian classics. Or, kick off your occasion with the Meraki cocktail, inspired by the Greek concept of pouring your entire heart into your endeavours.
24. Best Italian tasting menu
Theo Randall at The Continental
One Hamilton Place, Park Ln, London W1J 7QY
If you're after a memorable, elevated dining experience, look no further than Theo Randall at The Continental. Bringing a taste of Italy to the heart of Mayfair, Michelin star chef Theo Randall's restaurant has an extensive à la carte menu offering delicacies that range from wild seabass to slow cooked beef ragu pappardelle.
The perfect pick for a special occasion, however, has to be their thoughtfully selected regional tasting menu. Changing monthly, diners are given the chance to sample a selection of dishes inspired by a particular area of Italy, with past menus having taken influence from Veneto and Sardinia. Including wine pairings for the first three courses and at £75 per person, you'll be hard pushed to find a better value tasting menu which delivers on quality in every bite. With attentive service to match, Theo Randall at The Continental is a gem that you need to tick off your London restaurant list.
Photo by Sim Canetty-Clarke25. Best for authentic contemporary Mexican dishes
70 Leonard St, London EC2A 4QX
Zapote is an elevated Mexican restaurant in London’s Shoreditch serving up Mexican fare as you’ve never had before. Though the perfect place for sharing five or so plates of authentic Mexican flavours, you’re going to want at least one of their lamb barbacoa tacos to yourself, with the melt in your mouth meat being matched with rich, spiced chickpea perfection.
Coal roasted al pastor skewers are another must-have, with the salty charred pork perfectly balanced by zingy guacamole and salsa. When it comes to tortillas, the short rib of beef and sirloin needs to be your top pick for quality that speaks for itself. Round off your trip with the crisped blueberry and pecan empanadas and creamy vanilla ice cream and you’re in for a real treat.
26. Best contemporary Sri Lankan tasting menu
61 Rupert St, London W1D 7PW
Plating up modern takes on traditional Sri Lankan favourites, Soho’s Paradise has relaunched with a new tasting menu offering diners the chance to work their way through a rich and varied six-course vegetarian, land and sea or sea and veg menu.
The consideration that has gone into Paradise’s new menu is apparent from first bite. At £65 per person and with the option to complement with a wine pairing for £43, standout moments from the experience included the tangy chopped raw mutton roll tartare and expertly balanced flavours of the dessert course.
Paradise's interior is Brutalist yet homely, with guests encouraged to ease into the laid back setting and guests carefully walked through every course by attentive servers. Ideal for a reasonably priced, centrally located evening packed with fresh and exciting flavours, Paradise has you covered for your next date night.
Jodi Hinds Photography 202327. Best for sophisticated, authentic Singaporean cuisine
The Bugis Singapore Restaurant
140 Gloucester Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 4QH
Having recently reopened, The Bugis Singapore restaurant has to be one of the best places to visit for authentic luxury Singaporean cuisine in the whole city. The delicious flavours are deeply rooted in the Malay peninsula, classic Singapore street food and hawker’s heritage, comprising traditional Chinese, Malay, Indian cultures.
Its new culinary approach brings us small and sharing plates, taking inspiration from traditional family recipes passed down generations using simple techniques and locally sourced ingredients. Nestled in the elegant ambience of South Kensington, set just behind Gloucester Road tube station, the restaurant itself feels quiet, sophisticated and authentic, perfect for a date or a catch up with family or friends.
28. Best for generous Italian plates in an intimate setting
Archway Battersea
Arch 65 Queen's Circus, Nine Elms, London SW8 4NE
Situated under an unassuming railway arch not far from Battersea park you'll find the aptly named Archway Battersea. Effortlessly cool, this hidden gem offers an intimate, welcoming ambience with friendly service to match.Book a seat by the open kitchen and look on as the team plate up a selection of monthly changing dishes. With a short but sweet menu, typical picks include generous plates of pasta and classics that make the most of simple seasonal ingredients. Start with one of their flatbreads, follow up a pasta dish and pair with a wine from their extensive offering. Our personal favourites were their hearty beef ragu and wonderfully rich, melt in your mouth risotto, though we're fairly sure you can't choose a bad dish here.
CYNTHIA REZENDE29. Best for quality steak with old school ambience
The Guinea Grill
30 Bruton Pl, London W1J 6NL
Serving up beautiful cuts of meat in a cosy Mayfair pub setting, The Guinea Grill is a must for steak fans. A well established institution of the area, visiting here feels like being transported back in time in the best possible way, with old school charm oozing through its quintessential British decor.Featuring a line-up of classic starters such as prawn and crayfish cocktail and oysters, whatever you opt to begin with, we strongly advise you make the juicy, tender fillet your choice of main. A celebration of no-nonsense British steak, the quality of meat here speaks for itself. Round off with a sticky toffee pudding and you've got the full Guinea experience, with sterling service to boot.
30. Best for vegetarian and vegan Middle Eastern sharing plates
15 Poland St, London W1F 8QE
or
65 Commercial St, London E1 6BDWhether you’re vegetarian or not, Bubala is sure to earn a place as one of your favourite restaurants once you do get a chance to try it. With locations in Soho and Spitalfields, this is one you’ll want to book in advance as it’s a popular pick.
Featuring a totally vegetarian menu, Bubala is a testament to the depth of tastes and textures that can be crafted with Middle Eastern flavours and pure vegetables. We advise going hungry and keeping things simple by choosing their ‘Bubala knows best’ menu which includes a generous selection of all their fan favourites and has a vegan equivalent.
If, however, you’re going freestyle, we would highly recommend sampling their silky hummus and burnt butter, charred oyster mushrooms and eye-wateringly good halloumi with chamomile and fennel honey. You’re in for a real treat.
31. Best for Japanese fine dining and post-dinner cocktails
Sixth and seventh Floor, 12-14 Basil St, London SW3 1AJ
With the success of its first three restaurants in Dubai, Riyadh and Beirut, CLAP has officially launched in Knightsbridge London. Just a stone’s throw from the iconic Harrods department store, CLAP has reinvented an old tube station into a decadent three-level culinary destination, featuring an exclusive rooftop bar and lounge with 360 views of central London.
This is a fine dining Japanese cuisine with a hint of Middle Eastern flavourings. The standout dish was the black cod miso, while you're also in for the most jaw-dropping dessert platter - the matcha ice cream was a dream!
32. Best outdoor terrace in the West End
11-13 Market Pl, London W1W 8AH
The Oxford Market is perfectly situated for a welcome break from the madness of Oxford Street, nestled in Market Place, just one road back, north east of Oxford Circus across the road from what was once mega Topshop (RIP).
Since it opened its doors in spring 2023, it’s rapidly become a go-to destination for its delicious cocktails and hearty sharing plates of food for tourists and the local workforce alike. Service is friendly and quick, but the real draw is the newly opened outdoor terrace, which is completely covered and serves up blankets and heaters to keep you warm during the winter or spill out onto the pavement for after-work / after-shopping drinks in the summer months too!
Venture downstairs and into the basement and you’ll also find an incredible space for birthday parties, hen dos, Christmas parties or club nights!
Tom Bowles33. Best for a pre-theatre dinner
4 Suffolk Pl, London SW1Y 4HX
Bardo St. James offers elevated Italian cuisine just a short walk from London's West-End – but don't expect any tired pre-threatre menus here.
We're talking special antipasti, including burrata with pea purée and salmon carpaccio, plus crowd-pleasing classics like cacio e pepe and rib-eye steak with truffle and parmesan fries.
Even better, the restaurant's soundtrack is served by a live band from Monday to Saturday (yep, you read that right). Each night presents a different theme, from soul to jazz, blues and ‘feel good’ tracks. Top marks for ambience.
CHARLIE MCKAY34. Best for Asian sharing plates
9 Park Walk, London SW10 0AJ
and
29 Belsize Lane, London NW3 5ASSince opening in Chelsea back in 2021, this pan-asian spot is now spreading the joy at its new location in Belsize Village. Light interiors make the fast approaching winter feel that bit more tolerable, being a perfect spot for a low-key lunch or evening wind down. Think elevated yet unfussy.
We love any excuse for sharing plates, and HUŎ is giving us just that. With a menu comprised of all your favourite Asian dishes, expect delicate dim sum, warming curries, generous heaps of noodles and everything in between. Start with the crispy aromatic duck and moreish prawn dumpling dim sum before narrowing down several plates to share. The perfectly pan-fried teriyaki black cod on a bed of asparagus needs to be one of your choices, though honestly you can’t go wrong with this menu. All tastes are well catered to here, while friendly service, crisp cocktails and buzzy vibes make for a winning formula.
35. Best for traditional Italian design
59 Great Marlborough St, London W1F 7JY
Set just down the road from the iconic Liberty London you’ll find the beautifully vast and opulent new Italian restaurant opening Bocconcino Soho. Once you walk in, you're spoiled for modern Italian aesthetics with marble table tops, warm earthy tones and traditional Italian hand-painted crockery.
During the week the restaurant has a three course set lunch menu, specially curated as a refined version of the A La Carte menu. We opted for burrata, spaghetti bolognese and tiramisu, arguably three of the best things to come from Italian cuisine. Every weekend the floor comes alive with a lively brunch and resident DJ.
36. Best artisan tasting menu with views to match
40 Marsh Wall, London E14 9TP
Bōkan 37 is a Canary Wharf restaurant that takes ‘dinner with a view’ to a whole other level. Sitting on the 37th floor of Novotel, while the impressive cityscape views definitely make for a memorable dining experience, the food itself takes centre stage here.
With 2 and 3 course options available at £49 and £59 respectively, their 7 course tasting menu is perhaps a treat reserved for special occasions at £99 per person, though we wholeheartedly advise you to indulge yourself. Each course is thoughtfully created to produce perfectly balanced flavours and textures in each bite.
The melt in your mouth duck breast is a standout for us, though each offering hits a different delicious note, from the decadent scallop course to the rich short rib with shitake mushroom. Meanwhile, service is attentive and efficient, elevating the entire experience all the more.
Come for the views but stay for the food - Bōkan 37 is a delight for your taste buds.
37. Best for affordable, quality steak
Various locations.
The minute someone suggests a steak restaurant, you likely become acutely aware that your dinner is not going to be a quick, cheap bite to eat. But that's where Charlie Carroll sought to change things back in 2012, by launching Flat Iron - via a residency at The Owl and Pussycat pub in Shoreditch - as a place to serve excellent quality steak at an affordable price.
Just over a decade later, and the steak chain boasts 13 locations in London as well as others in Cambridge, Leeds and Manchester.
Serving one cut of steak - a so far underrated one: the ‘flat iron’ - for an incredibly reasonable £14, the restaurant's beloved side dishes of homemade beef dripping chips, crispy bone marrow garlic mash and truffled macaroni cheese undoubtedly complete the scene.
With a chic, industrial-inspired interior style - and some particularly fun group-booking booths downstairs at the Covent Garden location - it's the perfect spot for steak lovers looking to mark everything from date night to a special birthday or even hen party.
John Carey38. Best for Italian fine dining
20 Queen St, W1J 5PP
Murano is a treat for the senses from start to finish. With a menu that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine, this Mayfair restaurant sees Chef Angela Hartnett's creative flair and dedication to using the finest seasonal ingredients come to life in dishes that are deliciously comforting yet refined.
With options to indulge in three to six courses that span everything from risotto to halibut, while choosing favourites is hard it would be a shame to leave without trying the blissfully creamy ricotta tartlet or wonderfully smoky rabbit and morteau sausage risotto.
Dining at Murano is an experience in that their team is incredibly attentive yet allow you the space to enjoy your meal without feeling as though you're being rushed – seemingly a rarity in London! Nothing is too much trouble, while knowledgeable sommeliers are on hand to advise on the best possible drink to complement your menu choices.
39. Best for Brazilian-fusion with a party atmosphere
4 Mill St, London W1S 2AX
New to this bustling part of Mayfair just off Regent Street is Mano, a Brazilian-Japanese fusion restaurant-come-club where guests can "begin and end their night". Food is prepared by chef Rafa Gomes, winner of Master Chef Brazil and owner of Itacoa restaurant in Paris, and his flair for authentic Brazilian cuisine really shines at Mano.
Tuck into plates including grilled salmon with pickled cucumber, tzatziki and cilantro syrup; slow-cooked lamb shoulder served with sweet potato, red onions and black sesame sauce; or our personal favourite, seared tuna with caponata and pine nuts (make sure you order a plate of the citrus rice as a side). After dinner, stay for cocktails and dancing till the early hours.
40. Best for indulgent Italian fare with cocktails to match
62 Seymour St, London W1H 5BN
A warm setting in Marylebone, The Italian Greyhound plates up flavourful Italian dishes that cater to all tastes.
Start with the creamy yet crispy arancini and expertly cooked squid before moving on to your choice of pizza, pastas and everything from risotto to ribeye.
We advise making their wonderfully buttery prawn and crab ravioli one of your dishes for an indulgent balance of flavours that leave a lasting memory. Pair with their dangerously smooth and sweet clementine margarita that goes down far too easily and ensure you save room for their bombolini custard doughnuts as a finisher.
With a private room below, The Italian Greyhound makes for a great venue option for celebrations, though the main dining area has a buzzy, unfussy ambience and welcoming team who instantly put you at ease.
41. Best for Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine
Multiple locations:
49 Frith St, London W1D 4SG
77 Wigmore St, London W1U 1QE
Unit 3, 4 Pancras Sq, London N1C 4AGA Sri Lankan and South Indian restaurant with several London locations, Hoppers is well worth having in your dinner planning arsenal. Offering everything from paneer and kothu to rich karis, there’s ample options for vegetarians and meat eaters alike.
We recommend going in a bigger group to ensure you can try as many different dishes as possible, with egg hoppers and a warming kari being a must. Other fan favourite dishes include the bone marrow varuval, black pork curry, and naturally the hoppers themselves which come in a variety of flavours and toppings! With restaurants in Soho, Marylebone and King’s Cross, each has its own unique decor, though all offer uncompromising, tasty food and a welcoming atmosphere.
42. Best for small plates in boujee west London
184A Kensington Park Rd, London W11 2ES
If you love picky bits and tapas-style plates, add Notting Hill eatery Haya to your list, stat. With a Levantine-inspired menu that fuses Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours, it’s an ideal spot for a sharing dinner with friends.
Haya’s homemade breads are a particular hit, made for dipping in creamy hummus and melty baba ganoush – but make sure you save room for main (the slow-cooked lamb shoulder and grilled aubergine raheb are musts). The bar serves cracking cocktails, too.
43. Best laid back, Thai-inspired eatery
58 Brewer St, London W1F 9TL
Kiln is a low-key Soho eatery serving Thai-inspired dishes fresh from their wood-burning ovens and grills. A prime spot for sharing dinner post-work with mates or a casual date setting alike, Kiln’s short but sweet menu features a selection of small plates and sharing dishes that will have you planning your next visit as you’re taking your second bite.
We insist that you try their cull yaw and cumin skewers, clay pot baked glass noodles and curried monkfish. Sit upstairs at the lively bar and look on as chefs magic up little pieces of heaven, or tuck yourself away downstairs and prepare for yourself for some bold, complex and downright delicious flavours.
44. Best for pure pizza goodness
Multiple locations, including:
65 Balham High Road, London SW12 2AP
61 Blythe Road, London W14 0HP
157 Holloway Rd, London N7 8LXIf you like decent pizza, chances are you’ll like Zia Lucia. Carefully crafted with high-quality ingredients that deliver on taste, Zia Lucia’s USP is its four different doughs, with diners having a choice between traditional, wholemeal, vegetable charcoal and gluten-free.
However, beyond offering gluten-free pizza that’s so flavourful it’ll have you questioning whether it’s really gluten-free, what sets Zia Lucia apart is the variety of flavours and toppings on offer. From the arianna sbagliata which features gorgonzola, fresh sausage, honey and truffle oil to the burrata and parma ham pizza, we’d be just as happy with the simply yet wonderfully rich tomato base and fresh mozzarella on their margherita.
Though it has locations across London, there’s no compromise on the quality here. Take your pick from branches in Islington, Stoke Newington, Aldgate East, Hammersmith, Wandsworth, Balham and Wembley Park.
.png)
45. Best for French-Mediterranean fine dining
The Carlton Tower, 1 Cadogan Pl, SW1X 9PY
Nestled just steps away from Sloane Square in the Jumeirah Carlton Tower, this French-Mediterranean fine dining restaurant brings the essence of France to Knightsbridge. La Maison Ani, named in honour of Chef Izu Ani, celebrates love, togetherness, and tranquillity, offering diners a sensory journey filled with aromatic delights. The restaurant’s philosophy revolves around simplicity, presenting a menu that combines fresh, uncomplicated ingredients inspired by Normandy and Parisian bistros, with subtle Middle Eastern influences.
La Maison's interior exudes understated elegance and charm, providing a serene backdrop for an enjoyable dining experience. The bartenders are experts in their craft, ready to recommend the perfect cocktail or wine to complement your meal. The attentive staff ensure a seamless dining experience, catering to your every need. The starters, ranging from salads and hot and cold entrees to pizzas, are so enticing you might be tempted to skip the mains. But don't— the selection includes mouthwatering burgers, pastas, and fresh seafood. Save room for the fudge tiramisu; it's a must-try.
.png)
