12 Best Restaurants in Westminster: Where to Eat in 2025

Westminster is one of London’s most historic and popular areas. Millions visit each year to see landmarks like Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament.

The dining scene has grown to offer a wide range of options. From traditional British fare to international cuisine, the neighbourhood provides plenty of choices for anyone looking for a good meal.

Westminster welcomed over 20 million visitors in 2025, with dining spending increasing by 15% compared to previous years. The area now hosts over 200 restaurants, from Michelin-starred establishments to family-friendly chains, with Italian and British cuisine dominating the scene.

Finding quality restaurants in Westminster can be challenging with so many options. The best establishments combine excellent food, good service, and convenient locations near major attractions.

The area includes everything from casual cafés to upscale dining rooms. You can find various cuisines and price points to suit different preferences.

Whether you are sightseeing or working nearby, knowing where to eat makes the experience better. This guide covers twelve top restaurant choices in Westminster.

Each listing highlights what makes the restaurant worth visiting. You’ll find details about cuisine, atmosphere, and what diners can expect.

1) Sapori

Sapori serves Italian classics and British dishes on Horseferry Road. The laid-back, counter-service setting makes it a popular spot for both quick lunches and relaxed dinners.

The chalkboard menu changes regularly, offering a rotating selection of fresh options. Guests order at the counter and then find a seat in the simple dining area.

The menu features traditional Italian fare alongside British staples. Portions are generous, and prices remain reasonable for the area.

Sapori operates as both a café and a full restaurant. Staff members work efficiently behind the counter, keeping service moving smoothly.

The relaxed environment appeals to locals and workers from nearby offices. Many visit for quality food without fuss.

✨ Best For: Quick lunches, casual dining, Italian comfort food, takeaway
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Carbonara (£14), Margherita Pizza (£12), Daily pasta specials, Tiramisu (£6)

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1,506 reviews)
📍Location: 60 Horseferry Rd, London SW1P 2AF, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 7222 5488

2) Mio Restaurant & Bar

Mio Restaurant & Bar serves classic Italian food in a relaxed setting on Great Peter Street. The menu focuses on traditional dishes like pizza and pasta, prepared simply and without extras.

The atmosphere feels casual and welcoming. Locals and visitors return for the consistent quality of the food.

Pizzas come out of the oven with crispy bases. Pasta dishes feature fresh ingredients.

Prices are reasonable for Westminster, making it a good choice for a casual meal. Staff know the menu well and provide steady service.

The décor is straightforward, putting the focus on the food. Mio works well for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.

The wine and beer selection pairs nicely with the Italian menu. It’s a place that does the basics right.

✨ Best For: Authentic Italian pizza, date nights, relaxed dinners, wine lovers
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Prosciutto e Funghi Pizza (£13), Penne Arrabbiata (£11), Seafood Risotto (£16), Panna Cotta (£5.50)

⭐Rating: 4.8 (1,433 reviews)
📍Location: 58 Great Peter St, London SW1P 2HD, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 7222 0058

3) Chez Antoinette Victoria

Chez Antoinette Victoria sits tucked away on Palmer Street, just moments from Victoria Station and St James’s Park. The restaurant captures the relaxed elegance of Parisian cafés with its retro-style interior.

The menu features traditional French classics throughout the day. Breakfast includes Croque Madame, Eggs Royale, and fluffy omelettes, plus a bakery display of madeleines, croissants, and canelés.

Later in the day, diners can enjoy French Onion Soup, Bavette, and Escargots. The wine list focuses on French varieties such as Sancerre and Côtes du Rhône.

Classic cocktails and a Spritz complement the food menu. The café also serves barista-made coffee for non-alcoholic options.

The space offers a serene escape from busy Westminster. Whether you visit for breakfast or a leisurely French meal, you get a slice of French dining culture in central London.

✨ Best For: French breakfast, romantic brunch, authentic Parisian atmosphere, pastries
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Croque Madame (£12), Escargots (£9), Steak Frites (£18), Tarte Tatin (£7)

⭐Rating: 4.7 (1,874 reviews)
📍Location: 22 Palmer St, London SW1H 0PH, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 3990 5377
🌐Website: Chez Antoinette Victoria Website

4) Old Queen Street Cafe

Old Queen Street Cafe brings classic British dining to the heart of Westminster. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes it a good choice for both quick business meals and leisurely weekend dining.

The menu focuses on traditional British fare with modern touches. The cafe operates as both a restaurant and bar, adapting throughout the day.

Guests can pop in for morning coffee and pastries or return for a proper British lunch. The quality remains consistent across service periods.

The second-floor event space sets this place apart. The venue accommodates 40 people for seated dinners or up to 100 for standing receptions.

The team handles everything from intimate dinner parties to larger celebrations. They offer various setups, including panel arrangements for business events and banquet-style seating.

The location on Old Queen Street is convenient for anyone in central Westminster. Staff show genuine care in both daily service and event planning, working with guests to customise their experience.

✨ Best For: British comfort food, business lunches, private events, weekend brunch
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Full English Breakfast (£11), Fish & Chips (£14), Sunday Roast (£16), Sticky Toffee Pudding (£6)

⭐Rating: 4.5 (690 reviews)
📍Location: 6 Old Queen St, London SW1H 9HP, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 3005 2320
🌐Website: Old Queen Street Cafe Website

5) The English Grill

The English Grill sits just steps from Buckingham Palace. The restaurant offers a refined dining experience in elegant surroundings.

Specialising in traditional British cuisine, the menu focuses on quality steaks and classic dishes. The dining room features sophisticated décor that creates a proper yet comfortable atmosphere.

The menu highlights British ingredients and cooking techniques. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea service and an extensive cocktail selection.

The staff provide attentive care and know the menu well. The location is convenient for visitors exploring Westminster’s historic sites.

✨ Best For: Special occasions, romantic dinners, business entertaining, traditional afternoon tea
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Dry-aged Ribeye (£48), Beef Wellington (£52), Traditional Afternoon Tea (£35), Sticky Toffee Pudding (£9)

⭐Rating: 4.8 (778 reviews)
📍Location: 39 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0PS, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 7834 6600
🌐Website: The English Grill Website

6) Osteria dell’Angolo

Osteria dell’Angolo brings refined Italian dining to Westminster. The restaurant specialises in contemporary Italian cuisine with Mediterranean influences.

Guests can choose from a fixed-price menu or order à la carte. The dining room creates an elegant atmosphere for business lunches or special occasions.

Before dinner, visitors can relax in the lounge bar area with its comfortable round window tables. The bar serves cocktails and is a good spot for a coffee break or pre-dinner drinks.

The wine list offers impressive variety across different price points. Service stays professional and attentive.

The location on Marsham Street makes it easy to reach from Westminster’s government buildings and attractions. The menu balances traditional Italian favourites with modern interpretations, keeping Mediterranean flavours at the forefront.

✨ Best For: Business lunches, client dinners, sophisticated Italian dining, pre-theatre meals
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Burrata with heritage tomatoes (£12), Seafood Linguine (£19), Osso Buco (£26), Tiramisu (£8)

⭐Rating: 4.4 (616 reviews)
📍Location: 47 Marsham St, London SW1P 3DR
📞Contact: +44 20 3268 1077
🌐Website: Osteria dell’Angolo Website

7) Bon Gusto

Bon Gusto serves Italian cuisine throughout the day, from breakfast through dinner. The restaurant sits along Buckingham Gate and offers pavement seating for those who prefer to dine outdoors.

This makes it a practical choice for visitors exploring Westminster who want to eat in the fresh air. The menu features changing specials and regular offerings.

Guests can expect traditional Italian dishes prepared in a straightforward style. The kitchen handles breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering flexibility for diners.

The location near Buckingham Palace is convenient for tourists and locals. Pavement tables fill up during pleasant weather, while the interior offers a comfortable alternative in colder months.

Service runs smoothly throughout operating hours. Staff accommodate different dining schedules and keep things moving efficiently.

✨ Best For: Al fresco dining, breakfast near Buckingham Palace, traditional Italian, people-watching
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Italian Breakfast (£9), Four Cheese Pizza (£13), Lasagna (£12), Affogato (£5)

⭐Rating: 4.5 (1,605 reviews)
📍Location: 75-77 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6PD, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 7222 7185
🌐Website: Bon Gusto Website

8) Yaatra

Yaatra sits inside a restored Edwardian fire station from 1906. Diners enjoy a unique setting steeped in London history.

The building helped save Westminster Abbey during the Blitz in 1941. Original features like the carriage doors, glazed tiles, and fireman’s pole remain, blending heritage with modern dining.

Chef Krishnapal Negi, a Michelin-recognized chef, leads the kitchen. He focuses on Northern Indian cuisine and presents traditional flavours with refined techniques and careful plating.

Each dish shows attention to detail and honours its regional roots. The restaurant’s name comes from the Sanskrit word for “journey,” reflecting the dining experience.

The Grade II-listed building includes the original Watch Room. Winston Churchill once rang the fire alarm there.

Guests dine in a space where history meets contemporary Indian cooking. The location is convenient for exploring central London, with Westminster, Victoria, and St James’s Park nearby.

✨ Best For: Historic dining experience, North Indian cuisine, special occasions, unique atmosphere
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Tandoori Lamb Chops (£14), Butter Chicken (£16), Daal Makhani (£12), Kulfi (£7)

⭐Rating: 4.6 (699 reviews)
📍Location: 4 Greycoat Pl, London SW1P 1SB, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 4549 1906
🌐Website: Yaatra Website

9) The Pem

The Pem offers a modern take on British cuisine in Westminster. The restaurant is named after suffragette Emily Wilding Davison.

Chefs use seasonal ingredients and contemporary techniques. The dining room feels both elegant and welcoming, making it suitable for special occasions or business meals.

The menu changes with the seasons and highlights British produce. Dishes feature bold flavours and inventive preparations, adding a fresh perspective to traditional recipes.

The wine list pairs well with the food. It includes both familiar bottles and unique selections.

The Pem appears in the 2025 National Restaurant Awards, The SquareMeal Top 100, and the Michelin Guide. The restaurant hosts intimate lunches and private dining events.

The kitchen team works with Cornish seafood, Orkney scallops, and Lake District beef. Staff understand the menu and guide diners through their choices.

The location is convenient for visitors to Westminster’s attractions or those working nearby.

✨ Best For: Michelin-quality dining, seasonal British cuisine, business entertaining, tasting menus
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Orkney Scallops (£18), Slow-cooked Lamb (£32), Cornish Sea Bass (£28), Seasonal Tasting Menu (£75)

⭐Rating: 4.6 (214 reviews)
📍Location: 22-28 Broadway, London SW1H 0BH, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 3301 8080
🌐Website: The Pem Website

10) Ma La Sichuan

Ma La Sichuan brings authentic Sichuan flavours to Westminster in a modern setting. The restaurant specialises in traditional Chinese Sichuan cuisine and offers a selection of dim sum.

The menu highlights the numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns paired with chilli oil. Each dish has its own unique character, following the Sichuan idea that every plate should taste different.

This approach makes the experience feel both authentic and approachable. Booking ahead is recommended for dine-in service, especially during peak hours.

The restaurant opens Tuesday through Saturday, with shorter hours on Sundays. They close on Mondays.

Guests can collect takeaway orders by phone. Delivery is available exclusively through Uber Eats.

The Monck Street location puts diners close to several Westminster landmarks. The polished, contemporary atmosphere suits both casual and formal dining.

✨ Best For: Authentic Sichuan food, spice lovers, adventurous eaters, dim sum lunch
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Mapo Tofu (£10), Dan Dan Noodles (£9), Kung Pao Chicken (£12), Sichuan Hot Pot (£25)

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1,675 reviews)
📍Location: 37 Monck St, London SW1P 2BL, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 7222 2218
🌐Website: Ma La Sichuan Website

11) Shan Shui Social

Shan Shui Social transports diners to 1920s Shanghai with its themed atmosphere and regional Chinese cuisine. The restaurant sits in Victoria, close to Buckingham Palace.

It offers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience. The space captures old Shanghai style while staying relaxed and approachable.

The menu takes guests across different regions of China, from Sichuan’s spicy dishes to Guangdong’s lighter flavours. Chefs use traditional cooking methods and quality ingredients to create authentic dishes.

The Sichuan options deliver the expected heat and numbing spice. The cocktail menu adds another dimension, mixing Asian ingredients like lychee and yuzu with classic cocktails.

Drinks such as the Silk Road Lychee Manhattan and Jade Spiced Mule pair well with spicy food. The bar team balances flavours thoughtfully.

The restaurant opens for lunch and dinner throughout the week. Weekend hours extend later, with Friday and Saturday service until 22:30.

The Victoria station location makes it easy to reach.

✨ Best For: Asian cocktails, 1920s Shanghai atmosphere, date nights, dim sum
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Peking Duck (£38), Xiaolongbao (£9), Black Pepper Beef (£16), Mango Pudding (£6)

⭐Rating: 4.8 (255 reviews)
📍Location: 14 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0QP
📞Contact: +44 20 4617 8888
🌐Website: Shan Shui Social Website

12) Bill’s Victoria Restaurant

Bill’s Victoria serves British comfort food in a bright, welcoming space near Victoria Station. The restaurant sits at Cathedral Walk, making it easy to find for tourists and locals.

With room for larger groups, it’s a solid choice for family or friends. The menu covers all the bases throughout the day.

Breakfast includes eggs benedict and buttermilk pancakes. Dinner features burgers and other British favourites.

They run regular deals like £5 pancakes every Friday and two courses for £17.50 on weekdays. The 2 for 1 burger offer is available Monday through Friday until early February.

The location puts diners within walking distance of Buckingham Palace and Westminster attractions. Bill’s offers a casual atmosphere for quick brunches or longer meals.

They provide free WiFi and welcome dogs, adding to the relaxed vibe. The restaurant operates as part of a larger chain, so you can expect consistent service and familiar menu items.

The terrace seating gives guests an outdoor option when the weather is good.

✨ Best For: Family dining, breakfast all day, accessible location, kids-friendly menu
🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Eggs Benedict (£9), Bill’s Burger (£14), Buttermilk Pancakes (£8), Sticky Toffee Pudding (£6)

⭐Rating: 4.5 (7,874 reviews)
📍Location: 6 Cathedral Walk, Cardinal Walk, London SW1E 5JD, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 8054 5400
🌐Website: Bill’s Victoria Restaurant Website

Dining Experiences in Westminster

Westminster offers a range of dining experiences, from elegant fine dining to casual eateries near major landmarks. Visitors can expect professional service and varied atmospheres for both tourists and business diners.

Ambience and Atmosphere

Westminster’s restaurants reflect its dual role as a government district and tourist destination. Fine dining venues near Victoria and Parliament Square feature refined interiors with white tablecloths and subdued lighting.

Many occupy historic buildings with details like exposed brick or period features. Casual restaurants around Westminster Abbey and the South Bank tend to be brighter and more relaxed.

Many have outdoor terraces or garden seating during warmer months. The Cellarium Cafe at Westminster Abbey is a good example of this approach.

Sky-high restaurants offer panoramic views of London while serving contemporary cuisine. Diners can choose between traditional tea rooms in Victorian buildings and modern glass-fronted establishments, all within walking distance.

Types of Cuisine Available

Westminster’s restaurant scene includes a wide international variety. Japanese cuisine is prominent, with several high-end sushi and robata restaurants.

Traditional British fare remains popular, especially near tourist attractions. Visitors often seek authentic fish and chips or Sunday roasts.

European cuisines are common, including Italian trattorias, French bistros, and Spanish tapas bars. Asian options go beyond Japanese to include Thai, Chinese, and Indian restaurants.

Many restaurants cater to business lunches with prix-fixe menus. Vegetarian and plant-based options are standard at most places.

Michelin-starred venues and hidden gems both add to the area’s culinary diversity.

Typical Dress Codes

Most Westminster restaurants use smart-casual dress codes. Guests should avoid sportswear, shorts, and flip-flops, but formal business attire isn’t required.

Collared shirts and closed-toe shoes usually meet the standard. Fine dining venues may ask for “smart dress.”

Men often wear jackets, though ties are usually optional. Women typically choose dresses, skirts, or tailored trousers.

Casual cafes and terrace restaurants near landmarks accept relaxed tourist attire. Luxury hotels maintain stricter standards.

Check specific restaurant policies before booking, especially for special occasions or Michelin-starred establishments.

Planning Your Visit

Planning ahead helps you get the best dining experience in Westminster. Most top restaurants book up quickly, especially during tourist season and government events.

Making Reservations

Book ahead for Westminster’s popular restaurants. Many venues accept reservations 2-4 weeks in advance through platforms like OpenTable or TheFork.

Some high-end restaurants require bookings even earlier. Walk-ins sometimes work for casual spots during off-peak hours, but they aren’t reliable near major landmarks.

Tables with views of Westminster Abbey or the Thames fill fast. Phone reservations often offer more flexibility than online systems, especially for groups or special requests.

Most restaurants require credit card details to hold bookings. Cancellation policies vary, and some charge fees for no-shows within 24-48 hours of the reservation.

Accessibility Considerations

Many Westminster restaurants are in historic buildings with limited accessibility features. Contact venues directly about step-free access, lifts, and accessible toilets before booking.

Ground-floor seating isn’t always guaranteed in multi-level establishments. Some places accommodate wheelchairs but may have narrow doorways or tight table spacing.

Staff will assist with accessibility needs when told in advance. Share dietary requirements during booking so kitchens can prepare for allergies or restrictions.

Peak Dining Times

Lunch service between 12:00 and 14:00 draws many office workers and tourists. Dinner slots from 19:00 to 20:30 fill up quickly, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.

Westminster sees unique rush periods around parliamentary sessions. Major events at nearby venues also increase visitor numbers.

Tourist season from May through September brings steady crowds throughout the week. Early dinners before 18:30 or late seatings after 21:00 offer better availability and quieter atmospheres.

Weekday lunchtimes outside the busiest hours provide easier booking options.

Conclusion

Westminster offers a wide range of dining options for every taste and occasion. You can enjoy elegant fine dining near Buckingham Palace or relax in casual cafés on historic streets.

The restaurants in this guide showcase the best of Westminster in 2026. Whether you plan a special celebration, a business lunch, or a quick bite while sightseeing, Westminster delivers quality and variety.

Many restaurants sit close to London’s famous landmarks, making them convenient for city explorers. Several establishments combine excellent food with beautiful views and historic settings that enhance your visit.

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Our properties give you the perfect base to explore Westminster’s dining scene and everything else this prestigious area has to offer. Whether you need short-term serviced accommodation or a longer rental, we can help you find the right flat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Westminster features diverse dining options, from award-winning restaurants to charming cafés. Many places specialise in British cuisine and offer memorable settings for special occasions.

What are the top-rated dining experiences in the Westminster area?

Several highly regarded restaurants receive praise from diners in Westminster. The English Grill stands out for refined British cuisine in an elegant setting.

Sapori serves authentic Italian flavours and is popular with both locals and visitors. Mio Restaurant & Bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere with quality Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Old Queen Street Café provides a relaxed experience with high food standards. Each of these places adds something unique to Westminster’s dining scene.

Can you recommend some restaurants in Westminster that offer exceptional British cuisine?

The English Grill specialises in traditional British fare with modern techniques and premium ingredients. The menu highlights seasonal British produce and classic dishes prepared to a high standard.

Old Queen Street Café serves British comfort food in a casual, welcoming space. The menu features familiar favourites made with care.

Westminster’s dining scene reflects Britain’s culinary heritage and includes contemporary influences. Many places use ingredients from British farms and suppliers for quality and freshness.

Where can I find fine dining options in Westminster?

The English Grill delivers a fine dining experience with polished service and an upscale atmosphere. Guests enjoy refined British cuisine in elegant surroundings.

Mio Restaurant & Bar offers sophisticated dining with attention to presentation and service. This venue suits formal dining occasions.

Several Westminster restaurants occupy historic buildings and premium hotels, adding to the fine dining experience. These places usually require advance bookings during peak times.

Which restaurants in Westminster have earned notable awards or accolades?

Westminster includes restaurants that have received recognition from industry guides and critics. The area’s location near government buildings and landmarks encourages high standards.

Many restaurants build strong reputations through consistent quality. The English Grill is known for its approach to British cuisine.

Recognition often comes from positive reviews and high ratings on dining platforms. Some venues have operated successfully for many years, showing their quality and appeal.

What are the best places to eat in Westminster for a special occasion?

The English Grill offers an ideal setting for celebrations and important dinners. Its refined atmosphere and quality cuisine suit anniversaries, business dinners, and milestones.

Mio Restaurant & Bar provides a sophisticated environment for romantic meals and special gatherings. Attentive service and a carefully crafted menu enhance the experience.

Chez Antoinette Victoria brings Parisian charm to Westminster and creates memorable moments for special events. The restaurant’s unique character and French-inspired dishes make celebrations feel special.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known eateries in Westminster that come highly recommended?

Old Queen Street Café sits away from the main tourist areas. Locals often visit for its quality British food without the fuss of bigger restaurants.

Chez Antoinette Victoria brings an authentic French atmosphere to a quieter spot in Westminster. Many visitors miss this place, but it offers great value and real Parisian charm.

Sapori stays under the radar while serving high-quality Italian dishes. The restaurant highlights authentic flavours and warm hospitality.