69 Best Restaurants in London for 2024
Are you searching for the best restaurants in London for a date night, group outing, girls’ night out or an upcoming vacation? London offers such a wide variety of restaurants that it can be tough to decide on a dining plan. After all, London is nearly double the size of New York City.
Whether you’re looking for Michelin stars and celebrity chefs, or prefer a low-key and casual eatery, we’ve designed this collection to help with your dining plans and highlight the best restaurants in London for locals and visitors alike.
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69 Best London Restaurants
1. The Clove Club
The Clove Club features a modern British menu with a seasonal tasting menu concept. With two Michelin stars, it has often made the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
The Vibe
Located in the historic rooms at the Shoreditch Town Hall, an open kitchen concept invites diners to enjoy an elegant and relaxed meal in a chic setting.
What to Order
The tasting menu concept sets it apart as one of the best restaurants in London and includes some delectable dishes such as the Cornish sea bass or the Herdwick lamb rib. You can also choose to do a wine paring with your meal!
The Clove Club | Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old Hackney St., London, EC1V 9LT | £££
2. Smithfield
Serving traditional British cuisine as part of the St. John family of restaurants, Smithfield is one of the best restaurants in London for lunch and dinner.
The Vibe
Bright and classy with crisp white tablecloths and warm wood, this is one of the best restaurants in London for an elegant meal.
What to Order
Choose from selections such as the braised lamb with fennel and laverbread, or Guinea fowl with trotter and prune for a classic meal with friends or family.
Smithfield | 26 St. John St., London, EC1M 4AY | ££
3. The Pelican
Located in Notting Hill, The Pelican is a wonderful take on the Victorian pub scene. Ingredients are sourced from local farms to make this one of the best restaurants in London.
The Vibe
Warm and rustic with a fireplace and distressed wood furnishings, this is an excellent setting if you're looking for date ideas in London. Enjoy live music nights and Sunday movies in the pub.
What to Order
Serving local craft beer and classic British recipes, guests can choose from items like a leek and potato soup or the onglet with a side of your choice.
The Pelican | 45 All Saints Road, London, W11 1HE | £££
4. Westerns Laundry
An esteemed Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant, Westerns Laundry offers a selection of seafood, British fare and coastal Spanish tapas.
The Vibe
Colourful booths, whitewashed brick walls and steel-topped tables bring an industrial vibe to this eclectic eatery. There’s also an outdoor courtyard setting.
What to Order
This is one of the best restaurants in London because it has an ever-changing menu, which means that every day and week you'll find different options such as burrata, spider crab claws or crème brûlée.
Westerns Laundry | 34 Drayton Park, London, N5 1PB | ££
5. Trullo
Serving a seasonal menu of Italian fare, Trullo is focused on fresh and simple ingredients, scratch-made pasta and charcoal grill cooking methods.
The Vibe
Casual and simple, Trullo is one of the best restaurants in London for fresh and unfussy cuisine.
What to Order
The must-try dishes that make this one of the best restaurants in London include tagliarini with cuttlefish ragu and the Brixham cod with charred leeks.
Trullo | 300-302 St. Paul’s Road, London, N1 2HL | £££
6. Thattukada
Located along the bustling High Street area, Thattukada is a husband-and-wife-run eatery serving the distinctive flavours, fragrances and textures of Indian cuisine.
The Vibe
A colourful exterior welcomes diners into an equally vibrant interior where they can share a fun, tasty and casual experience with friends or family.
What to Order
Biryani rice and the para pollichathu are always good choices at this friendly eatery.
Thattukada | 229 High St., N. London, E6 1JG | £
7. Firebird
Located in the hip Soho neighborhood, Firebird features a classic European menu with modern touches. Head Chef Giacomo Peretti works with local farmers and produce vendors to source the freshest and most sustainable ingredients.
The Vibe
Offering a chic and elegant approach to the dining experience, guests can enjoy an extensive wine list and a coastal Mediterranean menu.
What to Order
As one of the best restaurants in London, menu favourites here include seabass with fermented turnips, grilled cauliflower with hazelnut puree and scallops with mashed potatoes and truffles.
Firebird | 29 Poland St., London, W1F 8QR | ££
8. Saltine
Head Chef Phil Wood brings modern European recipes to Saltine, one of the best restaurants in London for a stylish meal.
The Vibe
A chic aesthetic with sleek, polished wood chairs and exposed brick walls welcomes diners to sit and stay a while.
What to Order
Select from favourites like peppered venison or Cornish white crab with fennel, rounding off your meal with a sweet and sticky toffee apple cake.
Saltine | 11 Highbury Park, London, N5 1QJ | ££
9. Paradise
Located in Soho, Paradise serves classic Sri Lankan recipes prepared with British ingredients, contemporary methods and modern hospitality. Dishes are based on family recipes and influenced by Dutch, Portuguese and Indian cuisine.
The Vibe
An unassuming exterior leads the way to a small and intimate interior, perfect for a date night or anniversary.
What to Order
Must-try items include the ulundu-vadai dahl doughnuts with beetroot and coconut chutney and whipped sheep’s ricotta, or the dark-roasted and spiced chicken meatballs.
Paradise | 62 Rupert St., London, W1D 7PW | ££
10. Palomar
A Michelin Bib Gourmand award winner, Soho’s Palomar serves modern North African and Southern Spanish recipes using locally-sourced and organic ingredients.
The Vibe
With an open kitchen concept, this London restaurant is a welcoming and friendly setting for lunch or dinner.
What to Order
Enjoy dishes such as Jerusalem-style polenta, braised lamb shoulder or chimichurri ribeye at one of the best restaurants in London.
Palomar | 34 Rupert St., London, W1D 6DN | ££
11. Bouchon Racine
Brought to you by Chef Henry Harris, Bouchon Racine is located upstairs at The Three Compasses. True to the Bouchon name, it’s one of the best restaurants in London for traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.
The Vibe
With a warm and friendly atmosphere, Bouchon Racine combines a bit of Parisian bistro ambiance within its classic Lyon bouchon walls.
What to Order
The seasonal menu includes grilled veal chops with Roquefort butter and confit de canard with braised mogettes and white beans.
Bouchon Racine | 66 Cow Cross St., London, EC1M 6BP | £££
12. Josephine
Featuring a French bistro-inspired a la carte or prix fixe menu to share, Josephine's simple-but-flavour-filled recipes are reminiscent of Lyon.
The Vibe
Set on a neighborhood corner in Fulham, Josephine is a charming spot and one of the best restaurants in London to enjoy lunch or dinner.
What to Order
Try the pan-fried salmon with lentils, the puff pastry with chicken and mushrooms or a beef filet with peppercorn sauce. All delightful choices.
Josephine | 315 Fulham Road, London, SW10 9QH | ££
13. Camille
One of the best restaurants in London to enjoy an ever-changing menu of rustic French recipes and regional wines, welcome to Camille.
The Vibe
This chic French bistro offers a romantic ambiance of deep red walls, cosy tables and rustic counter seating.
What to Order
While the menu changes seasonally, favourites include the smoked eel devilled eggs to start and the mussels, bacon and cicely for the main course.
Camille | 2-3 Stoney St., London, SE1 9AA | £££
14. Wild Honey St. James
A Michelin Award-winning restaurant, Wild Honey St. James serves a modern European menu, perfect for trying the kind of London food that you won't find anywhere else.
The Vibe
Velvet-backed seating, a marble-topped bar and candlelight bring an elegant touch to this London restaurant.
What to Order
Try the hand-rolled ricotta dumplings, Cornish wild sea bass or Yorkshire rhubarb and lemon pavlova.
Wild Honey St. James | 8 Pall Mall St., London, SW1Y 5NG | £££
15. Restaurant 1890 by Gordon Ramsay
Owned and run by the celebrity chef, Restaurant 1890 by Gordon Ramsay is inspired by Chef Georges Auguste Escoffier and his recipes, which were created during his time at the Savoy Hotel in 1890.
The Vibe
Located within the gilded accents of the Savoy Hotel, dishes are prepared with precision and exquisite taste. This is one of the best restaurants in London for a special occasion or luxury experience.
What to Order
Menu must-tries include a wild garlic velouté, crème fraiche with a frog leg and the Cornish red chicken with asparagus sauce.
1890 by Gordon Ramsay | Savoy Hotel, Strand, London, WC2R 0EU | £££
16. Cinnamon Bazaar
Serving modern Indian cuisine, Cinnamon Bazaar is inspired by traditional Indian bazaars and marketplaces. It’s open for lunch and dinner but if you want to enjoy some breakfast in London, make sure to visit on Sundays.
The Vibe
Lively and colourful, you’ll find hanging plants, neon signs and eclectic décor at this fun eatery.
What to Order
Try the Jungle chicken curry, Tandoori king prawn or Jaipur-style okra at this best restaurant in London.
Cinnamon Bazaar | Multiple Locations | £
17. Bocca di Lupo
If you’re searching for a fresh and modern approach to Italian cuisine, Bocca di Lupo is an excellent spot to enjoy lunch, a pre-theatre set menu or after-show wine offerings.
The Vibe
Sit at bar-top stools to watch meals being prepared in the open kitchen or enjoy a private dining room for a special occasion at one of the best restaurants in London.
What to Order
The menu changes monthly, but you might find selections such as fusilli with escarole, olives, capers and walnuts from Campania or Venetian rice with pea soup.
Bocca di Lupo | 12 Archer St., London, W1D 7BB | ££
18. Dorian
Located in the fashionable Notting Hill neighborhood, Dorian uses wood-fired grilling methods and an open kitchen concept to create one of the best restaurants in London.
The Vibe
Sleek black and white checkerboard floors, mirrored walls and bronze accents set the vibe at this brasserie-inspired restaurant. The scene is buzzy and reservations are required.
What to Order
Try selections like the limousin veal chop, lobster French toast or an oyster and beef tongue rosti, and discover why this is one of the best restaurants in London.
Dorian | 107 Talbot Road, London, W11 2AT | £££
19. Scully
Serving international cuisine, Chef Ramael Scully uses the innovative flavours of his Malaysian, Australian, Chinese and Balinese backgrounds to culinary perfection at Scully.
The Vibe
Enjoy a chic and intimate setting with an open kitchen-bar concept and a marble counter, and watch your meals be prepared before your eyes.
What to Order
Order favourites like the forbidden black rice, green mole, smoked tofu, broad beans and zucchini or the duck breast with rhubarb, tamarind Relish and Toscana kale.
Scully | 4 St. James Market, London, SW1Y 4AH | £££
20. The French House
20. The French House
Located in Soho, the French House is a favourite of actors, writers and other celebrities. Chef Neil Borthwick’s daily-changing menu reflects French culinary classics prepared with modern ingenuity.
The Vibe
Warm and inviting, this upstairs dining room features a romantic ambiance.
What to Order
Oysters mignonette and lamb navarin are menu must-tries at this best restaurant in London.
The French House | 49 Dean St., Soho, London, W1D 5BG | £££
21. Brat
Located in Hackney, Brat serves Basque-inspired recipes cooked over fire, making it one of the best restaurants in London for a unique culinary experience.
The Vibe
The large dining room offers cosy tables and a bustling vibe. It does get busy, as you'd expect from one of the best restaurants in London, but you can make reservations to secure your table.
What to Order
The menu changes seasonally. If available, try the curred sardines with fresh ricotta and herbs. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with a Basque favourite, the burnt cheesecake.
Brat | 4 Redchurch St., London, E1 6JL | ££
22. Rochelle Canteen
This popular establishment serves classic European and British cuisine with a minimalist touch and sustainable sourcing. The Rochelle Canteen menu changes daily, making it one of the best restaurants in London to try new cuisine.
The Vibe
Simple white tables, a clean aesthetic and large windows set a chic scene in which to enjoy your meal.
What to Order
Goat torchon and creamed spinach, braised courgetti or asparagus gribiche are excellent items to start.
Rochelle Canteen | 16 Playground Gardens, London, E2 7FA | ££
23. BiBi
Featuring authentic Indian cuisine with a modern twist in Mayfair, BiBi is up there with the best restaurants in London. Chef Chet Sharma, who has headed several Michelin-starred eateries, serves lunchtime à la carte and tasting menus. For dinner, there’s a tasting menu.
The Vibe
Checkered floors, a warm wood bar, traditional Kashmiri fabric and rich earth tones set the scene for an open kitchen concept.
What to Order
The menu is constantly evolving, but some of the favourites that set this apart as one of the best restaurants in London include the lamb barra kebab and the Chamba chukh monkfish with Mylor prawns.
BiBi | 42 North Audley St., London, W1K 6ZR | £££
24. Smoking Goat
The flavours of Northern Thailand come alive at Smoking Goat where you’ll find a menu filled with fried chicken, Massaman-smoked short ribs, kra pow-smoked mutton and other authentic Thai dishes.
The Vibe
Casual and lively with a welcoming ambiance, diners can enjoy cosy seating or hang out at the bar with cocktails, wine and beer.
What to Order
Goat shoulder with massaman sauce is a popular dish. For more spice, order the duck laab. Sharing plates are large, so bring lots of friends along to this best restaurant in London.
Smoking Goat | 64 Shoreditch High St., London, E1 6JJ | ££
25. Petersham Nurseries
Serving lunch, dinner and afternoon tea with a focus on traditional Italian flavours and seasonal ingredients, Petersham Nurseries is certainly one of the best restaurants in London.
The Vibe
Enjoy a casually elegant setting of wrought iron chairs, vintage lighting and fresh-cut flowers. You can also dine outdoors on the garden patio.
What to Order
Seasonal menus include dishes like tortelli with aubergine, tomato, burrata and basil or the pizzetta primavera topped with asparagus, broad beans, guanciale and scamorza.
Petersham Nurseries | Floral Court, London, WC2E 9FB | ££
26. Nandine
Translating as “kitchen” in Kurdish, Nandine is one of the best restaurants in London serving authentic cuisine from Kurdistan, Iran, Iraq, Turkey and Armenia. It’s family-owned by Chef Pary Baban.
The Vibe
Nandine delivers a simple but lively interior where the colourful ingredients on the plates take centre stage.
What to Order
Try the lamb kebabs or share a mezze platter with dips such as hummus, yogurt and tahini as well as flatbreads, oils and other items. The baklava is wildly popular.
Nandine | Multiple Locations | ££
27. Bao
When you’re in the mood for fluffy bao buns, the obvious choice is a place named Bao. This Taiwanese bun house features an array of soft and chewy bao buns steamed in authentic hand-weaved bamboo pans.
The Vibe
Bao makes it easy to order a quick meal with notecards and pencils. Simply write in the quantity and the types of fillings you prefer.
What to Order
Look no further than a classic bao bun stuffed with pork and peanuts or fried chicken for a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in London.
Bao | Multiple Locations | ££
28. Speedboat Bar
This Thai-inspired eatery in the middle of Chinatown features an extensive beer and cocktail menu. The colourful setting makes Speedboat Bar one of the best restaurants in London to meet for happy hour or a group gathering.
The Vibe
Also one of the best restaurants in London for those seeking a venue that’s fun and lively, Speedboat Bar has an upstairs pool table and a ceiling strewn with Thai racing boats.
What to Order
Try the sweetcorn fritters or the Tom Yam Mama noodles with squid, pork and prawns.
Speedboat Bar | 30 Rupert St., London, W1D 6DL | ££
29. Brasserie Zedel
Located in Piccadilly Circus, Brasserie Zedel makes its glamourous home at the former Regent Palace Hotel, which was built in 1915. There are two adjoining bars and a live music and cabaret venue.
The Vibe
The vibe is lively with its French art décor with marble columns, velvet seats and gold accents. Enjoy a house band while dining with family, friends or colleagues.
What to Order
Enjoy a complete meal from the prix-fixe menu at one of the best restaurants in London. Try the roast pumpkin and vegetable soup, followed by curried butter dhal and finished with a petit rhubarb and vanilla coupe.
Brasserie Zedel | 20 Sherwood St., London, W1F 7ED | ££
30. Crisp Pizza
Where do you go for the perfect slice of pizza in London? Crisp Pizza is just the place. Part of The Chancellors pub in Hammersmith, the owners created their unique pie combining elements of New York and Neapolitan-style pizzas.
The Vibe
One of the best restaurants in London for casual and friendly vibes, Crisp Pizza is a walk-up-to-the-bar-and-order kind of place. Enjoy a slice or two beneath awnings on the sidewalk patio. You can also dine indoors if you can find room.
What to Order
The ‘nduja and mushroom varieties are popular, but many consider the thin-crust margherita pizza to be the best in town.
Crisp Pizza | 25 Crisp Road, London, W6 9RL | £
31. Bentley’s Oyster Bar and Grill
The popular Bentley’s Oyster Bar and Grill has served oysters and seafood since 1916. Chef Richard Corrigan has been at the helm since 2005.
The Vibe
Elegant awnings, polished wood floors, stylish white tables and black accents provide a chic aesthetic to this London hotspot.
What to Order
Some fan favourites are lobster spaghetti, traditional fish and chips, Himalayan salt-aged sirloin or platters of oysters, mussels, clams and whelks. If you’re an oyster aficionado, try the Jersey, Achill Island and Atlantic edge oysters and discover what makes this one of the best restaurants in London.
Bentley’s Oyster Bar and Grill | 11-15 Swallow St., London, W1B 4DG | £££
32. Café Cecilia
Nestled among the city's finest, Café Cecilia stands out as one of the best restaurants in London. Open from Wednesday through Sunday, it invites patrons to indulge in exquisite meals for lunch, dinner and weekend breakfasts.
The Vibe
Simple and contemporary in design with an industrial aesthetic, stylish diners will quickly realise why this makes the list of the best restaurants in London.
What to Order
The onglet with chips and peppercorn sauce, the grilled monkfish and the spinach and ricotta ravioli are all popular. For breakfast, choose the toasted Guinness bread with jam, a bacon sandwich or an egg and cheese sandwich.
Café Cecilia | 32 Andrews Roa, Hackney, London, E8 4FX | £
33. Padella
The Bib Gourmand award-winning Padella is an innovative pasta bar serving fresh and handmade pasta creations. You can even watch the pasta-making process through the glass-front windows.
The Vibe
With a friendly and lively vibe, Padella is an excellent choice for pasta lovers who appreciate authentic scratch-made creations served with savory sauces.
What to Order
Try fresh pasta creations such as the cacio e pepe, the fettuccine with pistachio mint and basil pesto or the pumpkin and ricotta ravioli.
Padella | Multiple Locations | £
34. Cloud Land
Are you searching for the best restaurants in London that serve authentic Chinese cuisine? Cloud Land, in Chinatown, specialises in traditional Yunnan province specialties.
The Vibe
Cloud Land’s sleek and simple vibe is the perfect setting for casual lunches and dinners.
What to Order
Try the Yunnan spicy chicken or the Dai-style fried beef at this best restaurant in London.
Cloud Land | 145 Minories, London, EC3N 1LS | £
35. Elystan Street
The Michelin-starred Elystan Street, headed by Chef Philip Howard, is one of the best restaurants in London serving straightforward, tasty dishes.
The Vibe
A sleek and contemporary exterior opens to a light and airy vibe at Chelsea’s Elystan Street.
What to Order
The spring onion soup with sautéed Dorset snails and garlic or the roast rump of lamb with pesto roasted aubergine, garlic, green olives and balsamic vinegar are must-try menu items.
Elystan Street | 43 Elystan St., Chelsea, London, SW3 | £££
36. Tasty Jerk
Can you get authentic Jamaican cuisine in London? Yes! Inspired by family and the flavours of the Caribbean, Tasty Jerk features Jamaican and island-inspired recipes using fresh fruit, fish and vegetables.
The Vibe
Bright yellow accents and a friendly team invite diners into this casual eatery, one of the best restaurants in London for Jamaican cuisine.
What to Order
Order authentic Jamaican dishes like marinated jerk chicken, ackee and salt fish, callaloo and oxtail stew at this best restaurant in London.
Tasty Jerk | 15b Sayer St., London, SE17 1FY | £
37. Bake Street
For perfect pastries, smash burgers for breakfast and a good cup of coffee, head to Bake Street, one of the best restaurants in London for casual fare.
The Vibe
There’s usually a line out the door for this small neighborhood eatery.
What to Order
Choose from fresh-baked croissants, lemon bars and bread pudding. You could also give the Bajan-spiced fried fish fillet a try or just go with gourmet ice cream; all have helped earn Bake Street’s place on our “best restaurants in London” round-up.
Bake Street | 58 Evering Road, London, N16 7SR | £
38. L’Atelier Robuchon
For fine French dining in Mayfair, L’Atelier Robuchon is the go-to spot. Chef David Alves uses acclaimed French chef and founder Joel Robuchon’s combination of Eastern and Western culinary techniques to create simple and artfully presented plates.
The Vibe
Swanky barstools at the marble-bedecked bar set the perfect scene for an elegant meal. Soft lighting and greenery provide a romantic vibe. Reservations are required.
What to Order
Enjoy small plates or a set menu with items like shrimp ravioli with sweet and sour daikon, quail stuffed with foie gras and seared scallops with kumquat relish.
L’Atelier Robuchon | 6 Clarges St., London, W1J 8AE | £££
39. Hoppers
Located in Soho, Marylebone and King’s Cross, Hoppers is one of the best restaurants in London to enjoy an eclectic array of Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine.
The Vibe
Between the multiple locations, you’ll find décor consisting of pottery, colourful masks, warm wood and a village café vibe, making them some of the best restaurants in London for dinner with a difference.
What to Order
Expand your palate by trying the Mussel Hodi, Scottish mussels steamed in creamy kiri hodiand served over string hoppers with a samphire sambol.
Hoppers | Multiple Locations | ££
40. Wild by Tart
A spacious area with a restaurant, bar, deli, store and private event space, Wild by Tart is brought to you by the duo behind Tart London catering. The menu features recipes made with locally sourced ingredients.
The Vibe
This former power station has an open and airy industrial vibe with aluminum pipes, high windows and hanging greenery. Sit at the counter of the open kitchen to be near the culinary action.
What to Order
Try the onglet with chimichurri, the flatbread with braised lamb ragu or the burrata with Jerusalem artichoke, black garlic and truffle vinaigrette.
Wild by Tart | 3-4 Eccleston Yards, London, SW1W 9AZ | ££
41. Nobu London
Headed by co-founder and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and co-founders Robert De Niro and Meir Teper, Nobu is one of the best restaurants in London for authentic Japanese cuisine.
The Vibe
Sleek and contemporary in design, Nobu serves artfully presented plates, making it one of the best restaurants in London for a romantic date night or lunch with colleagues.
What to Order
Choose from black cod with miso and wagyu beef, chicken teriyaki donburi or yellowtail sashimi in jalapeño sauce.
Nobu London | 19 Old Park Lane, London, W1K 1LB | £££
42. Lima
Bringing authentic Peruvian flavours to the heart of England with seasonal menus, Lima is one of the best restaurants in London to enjoy fresh foodie fare.
The Vibe
Bold and colourful accents and light-inducing skylights give a fun and eclectic spin to this London restaurant.
What to Order
Menu must-tries at this best restaurant in London include scallops tiradito with olive oil and lime emulsion, ceviche caliente or sautéed avocado and sweet potato purée.
Lima | Multiple Locations | ££
43. The Wolseley
Are you searching for the best restaurant in London for a romantic occasion? Serving modern European cuisine, The Wolseley is an elegant spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea.
The Vibe
Wrought iron and ornate exterior columns provide a grand café vibe, complemented by warm lighting, fresh-cut flowers and linen tablecloths.
What to Order
Their steaks are real crowd-pleasers, cooked or as tartare . Oysters, caviar and shellfish are also popular.
The Wolseley | 160 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9EB | £££
44. 40 Maltby Street
Found within the rustic brick walls of the Gergovie Wines warehouse is 40 Maltby Street. Chef Raef Hodgson works closely with family-owned dairy farms and coffee producers.
The Vibe
Vibrant and colourful with chalkboard menus and an industrial ambiance, 40 Maltby Street is open for lunch and dinner on select days.
What to Order
Menu favourites at this best restaurant in London contender include a glazed ham and cheddar sandwich, braised veal brisket, a mushroom fritter and a rhubarb, custard and ginger turnover.
40 Maltby Street | 40 Maltby St., London, SE1 3PA | ££
45. River Café
Open since 1987, the River Café offers a seasonal menu of Italian recipes and fine wines. Dine indoors or outdoors on the terrace at this lovely riverside setting.
The Vibe
Contemporary and colourful, River Café has an open kitchen concept.
What to Order
Branzino al forno, ravioli with zucchini and ricotta, and chargrilled longhorn beef sirloin with roasted Merinda tomatoes and braised spinach are always popular choices. You can't miss their signature lemon tart.
River Café | Thames Wharf, Rainville Road, London, W6 9HA | £££
46. Casa Fofo
Serving a seasonal menu highlighting locally sourced ingredients, Casa Fofo is located in the Hackney neighborhood and is one of the best restaurants in London. It offers Pacific and Asian flavours with a touch of Mediterranean influence.
The Vibe
Gather with friends in a setting complemented by rustic brick walls, outdoor seating and an open kitchen concept.
What to Order
Select from favourites such as crab with nori and daikon, pollock with bergamot or tomato with kimchi and tofu at this contender for the best restaurant in London.
Casa Fofo | 158 Sandringham Road, London, E8 2HS | £££
47. Barrafina
A modern take on the traditional Spanish tapas bar, Barrafina can be found in several locations, including Soho, Covent Garden, King’s Cross and Borough Yards.
The Vibe
Barrafina’s vibe is sleek and rustic with an open kitchen and marble-topped bars. The Dean Street location is walk-in only, but the other locations take reservations.
What to Order
Enjoy a wide array of tapas such as gambas rojas, prawn and piquillo peppers, tuna tartare or chorizo, potatoes and watercress. For your main, enjoy arroz negro or black rice served with a variety of seafood.
Barrafina | Multiple Locations | ££
48. Jolene
Combining the comfort food of a restaurant with the sweet goodness of a bakery, at Jolene, Chalkboard menus announce the specials of the day.
The Vibe
One of the best restaurants in London, Jolene delivers a chic and industrial vibe with the attitude of a friendly neighborhood gathering spot.
What to Order
The menu changes daily, but you can expect to find Mediterranean selections such as tagliatelle pork ragu, cavatelli with pesto and herbs or kohlrabi with almond, citrus and mint.
Jolene | 21 Newington Green, Mayville Estate, London, N16 9PU | ££
49. Sweetings
An elegant Victorian fish and oyster bar, Sweetings has been serving sustainably sourced seafood since 1889. It’s located within the grand Albert Building and makes a wonderful choice for a date night, special occasion or meet-up with friends and colleagues.
The Vibe
With wood-paneled walls, framed photos, barstool seating and antique furnishings, Sweetings is one of the best restaurants in London for a homey vibe.
What to Order
Try the Dover sole, Scotch lobster thermidor or a variety of oyster selections at this best restaurant in London.
Sweetings | 39 Queen Victoria St., London, EC4N 4SF | ££
50. Rasa N16
Introducing Rasa N16, one of the best restaurants in London to enjoy vegetarian selections with a South Indian influence.
The Vibe
An electric pink exterior welcomes diners to enter this colourful and cosy London restaurant.
What to Order
Cheera curry with lemon rice and the pappada vada are favourites at this eatery, one of the best London restaurants for a vegetarian meal.
Rasa | 55 Stoke Newington Church St., London, N16 0AR | £
51. The Parakeet
What is the best restaurant in London for a traditional British meal? The Parakeet, with its seasonally changing menu and inviting setting, might just be it.
The Vibe
This corner neighborhood gathering spot offers a warmly-lit bar area, beautiful parquet floors and elaborate carved wood décor. Enjoy jazz and trivia nights or watch sports matches in the pub area.
What to Order
Favourites at this best restaurant in London competitor include duck with beetroot and enoki, rabbit pie and smoked ricotta and peas.
The Parakeet | 256 Kentish Town Road, London, NW5 2AA | ££
52. Sambal Shiok
Serving authentic Malaysian cuisine, Sambal Shiok is one of the best restaurants in London for piping hot bowls of laksa and fried chicken.
The Vibe
Bright and bustling with colourful walls and outdoor seating, Sambal Shiok is one of the best restaurants in London to meet friends for a casual lunch or dinner.
What to Order
As one of the best restaurants in London, there are plenty of menu favourites. If we had to choose for ourselves, we’d suggest the beef rendang, prawns in tomato sambal or the curry laksa with rice noodles and tofu puffs.
Sambal Shiok | 171 Holloway Road, London, N7 8LX | £
53. Ciao Bella
Where can you find classic Italian cuisine in the Big Smoke? Ciao Bella is one of the best restaurants in London for big plates of pasta and pizza.
The Vibe
Located in Bloomsbury, Ciao Bella is decorated with mosaics, musical instruments and a multitude of portraits for a down-home ambiance. It’s the best restaurant in London for a cosy and casual meal with friends or family. You can also dine outdoors along the awning-covered patio.
What to Order
Choose from various pizzas or enjoy a heaping order of linguine al pesto, spaghetti alla Bolognese or gnocchi alla Sorrentina at this best restaurant in London. For non-pasta dishes, try the vitello al lemone or grilled seabass.
Ciao Bella | 86–90 Lamb’s Conduit St., London, WC1N 3LZ | £
54. Kiln
One of the best restaurants in London when you’re craving Thai cuisine, recipes at Kiln are prepared using woks, clay pots and wood-fired grills.
The Vibe
With an open kitchen concept, diners can sit at the stainless steel-topped bar for a casual meal while watching their orders being prepared.
What to Order
Choose from traditional Thai cuisine like chak som sour curry of grey mullet, grilled bavette with smoked chili glaze or clay-pot baked glass noodles.
Kiln | 58 Brewer St., London, W1F 9TL | £
55. Lisboeta
Serving Portuguese small plates, seafood and classic desserts reminiscent of its namesake, Lisbon, lovers of Portugal should definitely head to Lisboeta.
The Vibe
Located in a three-story structure, Lisboeta is a trendy spot for a delicious meal. The first floor offers bar seating in front of the open kitchen, making it a terrific location for lunch or a casual dinner.
What to Order
Try the Cornish mussels, the black pepper pastel de nata or the wood-smoked cauliflower with roasted beetroot to see what earns Lisboeta a place in the best restaurants in London list.
Lisboeta | 30 Charlotte St., London, W1T 2NG | ££
56. Café Deco
Located in Bloomsbury, Café Deco is a combination bar, restaurant and wine shop. There’s indoor and outdoor patio seating at this best restaurant in London.
The Vibe
A neighborhood café vibe makes this one of the best restaurants in London for a relaxed meal.
What to Order
Menu favourites include roast beef with fried spring onions, baked brill with potatoes and sausage, bacon and bean stew.
Café Deco | 42 Store St., London, WC1E 7DB | ££
57. Cavita
One of the best restaurants in London for Mexican cuisine, Cavita is open all day long for lunch, dinner and brunch.
The Vibe
Hanging greenery, pendant lighting, exposed brick walls and bamboo furnishings bring a light and airy touch to this authentic Mexican restaurant.
What to Order
This is one of the best restaurants in London offering street tacos, ceviche tostadas and mackerel zarandeado.
Cavita | 56-60 Wigmore St., London, W1U 2RZ | £
58. Donostia
A marble-topped bar, open kitchen and cosy tables set the scene for Donostia’s Basque-inspired tapas menu.
The Vibe
Choose the elegant ambiance of Donostia for a romantic dinner or, indeed, any special occasion deserving of a table at one of the best restaurants in London.
What to Order
Various classic tapas include Palamos prawns with ajillo, patatas bravas and lamb rack with prune sauce.
Donostia | 10 Seymour Pl., London, W1HD 7ND | ££
59. Fischer's
An authentic Austrian-inspired café, Fischer's is open for breakfast, lunch, tea, dinner and weekend brunch. It’s one of the best restaurants in London for a unique culinary experience.
The Vibe
Elegant décor features gold accents, Austrian portraits, deep wood tones and white linen tablecloths. It’s one of the best restaurants in London for dinner with the in-laws or celebrating a special occasion.
What to Order
Schnitzel, sausage, spaetzle, grilled kippers and smoked salmon and cream cheese pretzels are menu favourites at Fischer’s.
Fischer's | 50 Marlyebone High St., London, W1U 5HN | ££
60. Quality Chop House
The Quality Chop House has featured a contemporary menu since its opening in 1869. It’s open for lunch and dinner and has a butcher shop next-door, making it one of the best restaurants in London for fresh meat dishes. Book the private dining room, decked out in period French furnishings and offering a feasting-style menu, perfect for a special event.
The Vibe
Black-and-white checkerboard floors, embossed wall coverings and mosaic décor set an elegant ambiance, which makes it one of the best restaurants in London for a meal with friends.
What to Order
Choose from favourites like Suffolk leg chop, Parmesan and lemon gnocchi or chalk stream trout with clams and chive butter sauce.
Quality Chop House | 92–94 Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3EA | ££
61. José Tapas Bar
With a menu that changes daily, José Tapas Bar is one of the best restaurants in London for a casual date night or a girls’ night out.
The Vibe
Situated on a lively corner, this best restaurant in London has an open kitchen and a menu inspired by Barcelona’s tapas bars.
What to Order
Choose from a variety of traditional Spanish tapas, such as red mullet and tuna tartare and more than 50 Spanish wines and cocktails.
José Tapas Bar | 104 Bermondsey St., London, SE1 3UB | ££
62. Plaquemine Lock
One of the best restaurants in London for Cajun and Creole cuisine, Plaquemine Lock combines these culinary delights with live jazz. Located along the Regent’s Canal, it’s open for dinner and Saturday brunch.
The Vibe
Colourful and lively, Plaquemine Lock is part English pub and part authentic New Orleans culinary gem, making it one of the best restaurants in London for Anglo-American dining.
What to Order
For a Cajun fix, go straight to the gumbo with shrimp and sausage, stone-ground grits with mushrooms or the jambalaya with Creole rice, sausage and ham hock.
Plaquemine Lock | 139 Graham St., Islington London, N1 8LB | £££
63. Pearly Queen
One of the best restaurants in London, Pearly Queen offers fresh seafood and an oyster bar. Dine indoors or outside at bistro tables.
The Vibe
This is one of the best restaurants in London when you’re seeking a lively ambiance in a casual setting.
What to Order
Choose from various elegantly presented oysters or go with the trout tartare with tomato ponzu or the crab risotto fritter with wild mushroom butter and celeriac.
Pearly Queen | 44 Commercial St., London, E1 6LT | ££
64. Noci
At Noci, the team serves homemade bread, pasta and Sicilian street food, making it one of the best restaurants in London for a taste of Italy.
The Vibe
Gather with friends and family around rustic wooden tables and soak up the lively, neighbourhood-restaurant atmosphere.
What to Order
Select a delicious plate of brown butter cacio e pepe ziti or tiger prawn gnocchetti with roasted red peppers, orange and tarragon.
Noci | Multiple Locations | ££
65. Bellanger
Located in Islington, Bellanger serves an array of French Mediterranean cuisine. It’s open for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, and on Wednesdays and Thursdays, it’s one of the best restaurants in London for dining with live music.
The Vibe
An elegant interior decked out with vintage travel posters and the ambiance of a French brasserie makes Bellanger the perfect spot for casual dining.
What to Order
Order classic French fare like confit of duck, pan-seared sea bream or Nicoise pissaladière at one of the best restaurants in London.
Bellanger | 9 Islington Green, London, N1 2XH | £££
66. Drapers Arms
The perfect spot for an elegant meal, at Drapers Arms, you can dine indoors or choose to eat on the outdoor garden patio.
The Vibe
This Islington eatery offers the ambiance of a neighborhood pub to create what is certainly one of the best restaurants in London.
What to Order
Start with baked camembert and move on to Toulouse sausage with Alsace bacon or suet-crusted beef bourguignon. Finish with strawberry cheesecake or spiced pineapple carpaccio with a pistachio and coconut crumble.
Drapers Arms | 44 Barnsbury St., London, N1 1ER | £££
67. Sunday in Brooklyn
Situated in Notting Hill, Sunday in Brooklyn is open for dinner and brunch. There’s an event space in the basement, making this the best restaurant in London for a celebratory dinner with family and friends.
The Vibe
Warm and inviting with hanging plants and deep wood tones, this neighborhood corner eatery welcomes diners with blue-striped awnings and floor-to-ceiling windows.
What to Order
The menu offers delectable choices such as the beef short rib with bone marrow butter and the red honey barbeque chicken. For brunch, enjoy a platter of steak and eggs, a cheddar scramble or a Don Ruben omelet with mushrooms, feta and mole sauce.
Sunday in Brooklyn | 98 Westbourne Grove, London, W2 5RU | £
68. Mazi
What’s the best restaurant in London when you’re craving Greek cuisine? That would be Notting Hill’s Mazi, serving a wide range of recipes reminiscent of sun-soaked Mediterranean shores.
The Vibe
Mazi means “together” in Greek, and true to its name, this London restaurant offers a bright and friendly vibe for family, friends and colleagues to gather.
What to Order
One of the best restaurants in London for authentic cuisine, choose from dishes such as grilled octopus with fava and onion chutney, spiced lamb rump or braised ossobuco and orzo pasta.
Mazi | 12–14 Hillgate St., London, W8 7SR | ££
69. Sumi
For sushi and Japanese cuisine at one of the best restaurants in London, head to Notting Hill’s Sumi. Led by Chef Christian Onio, under sushi master Endo Kazutoshi, it offers an innovative selection of fresh sushi and sashimi.
The Vibe
This is one of the best restaurants in London for a warm and casual meal, making an evening with friends or family time well spent.
What to Order
Choose from favourites like nigiri and temaki or try the seafood or beef Gohan.
Sumi | 157 Westbourne Grove, London, W11 2RS | ££
Try Cooking London Foods
While dining at the best restaurants in London can be a fun and romantic culinary experience, sometimes you just want to enjoy a meal at home. Cooking classes in London can help you learn to prepare the recipes that make London a culinary destination. Join a gourmet chef who will share tips and techniques for making Yorkshire puddings, shepherd’s pie, even the perfect puff pastry for a traditional beef Wellington.
Alternatively, booking private chefs in London is another way to share your love of cuisine from the comfort of home. Who doesn't love having a restaurant-quality dish at home without the hassle of shopping or cleaning up?
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Whether you're a seasoned Londoner, well-versed in the city's culinary delights, or a visitor here to explore its vibrant food scene, this carefully curated collection of London restaurants offers an array of options to elevate your dining experience. From cosy bistros to elegant fine dining establishments, each venue promises a memorable and delicious journey through London's diverse culinary landscape.
It's your turn to delve deeper into London's cultural tapestry with cooking classes led by local experts, embark on food tours to uncover hidden gastronomic gems, or venture beyond the city limits to discover the culinary delights of the surrounding countryside.
For even more ways to explore London and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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