11 Best Restaurants in London: Where to Eat in 2025

London’s restaurant scene offers some of the world’s finest dining experiences, from innovative modern kitchens to celebrated neighbourhood gems. The city’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, blending traditional British flavours with international influences to create truly exceptional meals.

We’ve carefully selected eleven outstanding restaurants that represent the very best of what London has to offer right now. Our choices span different neighbourhoods and price points, featuring everything from intimate fine dining establishments to vibrant social dining spots. We’ll also share practical advice for booking tables and understanding current dining trends that are shaping how Londoners eat out.

1) HIDE

HIDE occupies three floors on Piccadilly and delivers an impressive modern European dining experience. The contemporary space feels sophisticated without being stuffy, making it perfect for special occasions or business meals.

We found the elevated menu showcases seasonal ingredients with creative presentations. The restaurant operates from morning through late night, giving you flexibility whether you want breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

The venue offers multiple private dining rooms including The Broken Room and The Piccadilly View. These spaces work well for group celebrations or corporate events when you need something more intimate than the main dining room.

Service runs smoothly across all three levels, and the wine selection pairs well with the modern European dishes. The tasting menu provides the full experience if you want to explore the kitchen’s range.

📊 Rating: 4.5 ★★★★☆: (3,961 reviews)
📍 Location:: 85 Piccadilly, London W1J 7NB, United Kingdom
📞 Contact: +44 20 3146 8666
🌐 Website: https://hide.co.uk

2) Mount St. Restaurant

Mount St. Restaurant sits on the first floor of the iconic Audley pub in Mayfair, offering a truly striking dining experience. The moment we stepped inside, we were amazed by the over 200 artworks covering the walls, including pieces by Andy Warhol, Henri Matisse, and Lucian Freud.

The restaurant’s standout feature is Rashid Johnson’s ‘Broken Floor’ – a stunning palladiana mosaic that runs throughout the space. Combined with the carefully designed interiors by Studio Laplace, it creates an atmosphere that feels like dining in a contemporary art gallery.

Executive Chef Jamie Shears focuses on modern British cuisine using ingredients from local farms, including beef and lamb from their own Somerset farm. We found the menu cleverly updates traditional London classics whilst maintaining their familiar comfort. The breakfast, lunch, and dinner options all showcase fresh British produce.

The new Retro Menu caught our attention with its playful take on nostalgic British dinner party favourites. It’s available as a three-course set menu throughout the week, bringing contemporary flair to comforting dishes we remember from childhood.

📊 Rating: 4.7 ★★★★☆ (629 reviews)
📍Location: First Floor, 41-43 Mount St, London W1K 2RX
📞Contact: +44 20 3840 9860
🌐Website: http://www.mountstrestaurant.com

3) Fallow

Fallow brings conscious gastronomy to the heart of St James’s with a focus on sustainable dining. The Modern British restaurant uses carefully sourced ingredients to create innovative dishes that feel both environmentally responsible and delicious.

The menu showcases creative cooking that transforms familiar ingredients into something special. We found the flavours well-balanced and packed with personality, reflecting the kitchen’s commitment to both taste and sustainability.

The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and refined. The restaurant feels generous and indulgent without being stuffy, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Fallow also offers their signature seasonings and sauces for home cooking. Their British Sriracha and Kombu Seasoning bring some of the restaurant’s distinctive flavours to your own kitchen.

📊 Rating: 4.6 ★★★★☆ (7,822 reviews)
📍 Location: 52 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4RP
📞 Contact: +44 20 8017 1788
🌐 Website: http://www.fallowrestaurant.com

4) Evelyn’s Table

Evelyn’s Table occupies a former beer cellar beneath an 18th-century pub on Rupert Street. The space feels intimate and cosy, with just a handful of tables tucked into what was once The Blue Posts’ basement.

The five-course evening tasting menu showcases modern European cuisine with creative flair. Each dish demonstrates careful attention to technique and presentation. The kitchen pairs ingredients thoughtfully, creating combinations that feel both surprising and natural.

Service runs like clockwork with two evening sittings at 6pm and 8.45pm Monday through Friday. Saturday adds a lunch sitting at 1pm with a four-course menu. The wine pairings feature lesser-known bottles that complement each course perfectly.

Booking requires full prepayment, which shows how sought-after tables are here. The intimate setting means reservations fill quickly, but the experience justifies the planning ahead.

📊 Rating: 4.8 ★★★★☆ (1,116 reviews)
📍 Location: 28 Rupert St, London W1D 6DJ
🌐 Website: https://www.theblueposts.co.uk/evelyns-table

5) Circolo Popolare

We were blown away by the theatrical atmosphere at Circolo Popolare. The restaurant decorates its walls with over 20,000 bottles, creating a truly unique dining experience. The opulent interior makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

The Italian menu focuses on authentic trattoria dishes with a modern twist. We loved their Neapolitan-style pizzas and traditional pasta dishes. The portions are generous and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

The location in Fitzrovia makes it easy to reach from central London. We found the staff knowledgeable about the menu and eager to help with recommendations. The atmosphere gets lively during dinner service, so it’s perfect for celebrations.

Booking ahead is essential as walk-ins face limited availability. They accept reservations for up to 8 people, with bookings opening at 9am exactly one month in advance. For larger groups, special arrangements can be made 37 days ahead.

📊 Rating: 4.8 ★★★★☆ (30,897 reviews)
📍 Location: 40-41 Rathbone Pl, London W1T 1HX, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 4578 4370
🌐 Website: https://www.circolopopolare.com/restaurants/circolopopolare-london

6) Sabor

Sabor brings the flavours of Spain right to Heddon Street. This restaurant takes you through different regions of Spain, from Andalucían tapas to Castilian grills.

The space has four different areas spread across two floors. We found the ground floor buzzes with energy at the bar, counter, and La Mesa dining area. The first floor houses El Asador, where the grilling magic happens.

What impressed us most was how each area offers a completely different dining experience. The counter seating lets you watch the chefs work their magic. The bar area feels authentic, like something you’d find in Madrid.

The Michelin star they earned in 2018 shows in every dish. We tried plates that captured the essence of Galician seafood and Castilian cooking. Each bite transported us across Spain’s diverse culinary landscape.

📊 Rating: 4.6 ★★★★☆(1,980 reviews)
📍 Location: 35-37 Heddon St, London W1B 4BR
📞 Contact: +44 20 3319 8130
🌐 Website: http://www.saborrestaurants.co.uk

7) Ekstedt at The Yard

We found ourselves captivated by the primal cooking methods at this Michelin-starred gem in Westminster. Chef Niklas Ekstedt brings his celebrated Stockholm concept to London, cooking everything over open flames using only wood-fired ovens and grills.

The restaurant transforms seasonal British ingredients through ancient Scandinavian techniques. We watched flames dance as our dishes emerged from the wood-burning ovens, each plate carrying subtle smoky notes that enhanced rather than overwhelmed the natural flavours.

The intimate Chef’s Table experience seats just seven guests and offers front-row views of the fire-focused kitchen. We appreciated how the open flames became part of the theatre, with chefs skilfully managing different cooking stations around the restaurant’s various fire sources.

The dining room feels warm and inviting, perfectly matching the cooking philosophy. Service runs smoothly despite the complex cooking methods, and the seasonal menu changes reflect the chef’s commitment to using the finest available ingredients.

📊 Rating: 4.8 ★★★★☆ (643 reviews)
📍 Location: 3-5 Great Scotland Yard, London SW1A 2HN
📞Contact: +44 20 7925 4749
🌐Website: https://www.ekstedtattheyard.com

8) Scully

The moment we walked into Scully, the warm wood tones and relaxed atmosphere made us feel welcome. This isn’t your typical stuffy fine dining spot – it’s hip and informal whilst still maintaining that refined edge you’d expect from a top-tier restaurant.

Chef Ramael Scully’s diverse background really shines through in every dish. Born in Malaysia with Chinese, Indian, Irish, and Balinese heritage, he brings flavours from across the globe to this St James’s location. We were impressed by how seamlessly he blends Asian, Middle Eastern, and European influences.

The tasting menu showcases Scully’s commitment to sustainability and zero waste cooking. Everything from house-made spices to pickles lines the working pantry, which you can actually see from your table. The vegetarian and vegan options aren’t afterthoughts – they’re crafted with the same care as the meat and fish dishes.

What struck us most was the explosive flavour in every bite. Scully’s experience as former head chef at Ottolenghi’s NOPI is evident in the creative combinations and expert use of spices and fermentation techniques.

📊 Rating: 4.8 ★★★★☆ (1,194 reviews)
📍Location: 4 St James’s Market, London SW1Y 4AH
📞 Contact: +44 7359 519227
🌐 Website: http://www.scullyrestaurant.com

9) The Ledbury

The Ledbury stands as one of London’s most impressive fine dining destinations. Chef Brett Graham creates innovative modern European dishes that push culinary boundaries whilst maintaining exceptional flavour.

We found the restaurant’s smart, contemporary setting perfectly complements the sophisticated menu. The wine selection impresses with carefully chosen bottles that pair beautifully with each course.

The cooking here demonstrates remarkable skill and creativity. Each dish arrives as a work of art, combining unexpected ingredients in ways that simply work. The attention to detail extends from the kitchen to the polished service.

Located on Ledbury Road in Notting Hill, this restaurant has earned its reputation through consistent excellence. The atmosphere strikes the right balance between refined and welcoming, making it suitable for special occasions.

📊 Rating: 4.7 ★★★★☆ (1,604 reviews)
📍 Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London W11 2AQ, United Kingdom
📞 Contact: +44 20 7792 9090
🌐 Website: https://www.theledbury.com

10) Carlotta

Tucked away in Marylebone, Carlotta feels like stepping into an elegant Italian hideaway. The heavy velvet curtain at the entrance sets the tone for this stylish restaurant. Inside, we found a perfect blend of retro charm and modern sophistication.

The menu celebrates Italo-American cuisine with a British twist. Chef Davide creates dishes like Tartare di Vitello Tonnato using tender Cheshire veal. We loved the creative takes on classics, including spicy nduja spaghetti and meatballs and the indulgent Fettuccine Alfredo al Tartufo.

The atmosphere works for any occasion. During the day, the terrace provides a lovely lunch spot. Evening brings cocktails at the striking Rosso Levanto marble bar.

Service feels welcoming and professional. The team accommodates both reservations and walk-ins. They offer set menus for larger groups and even private hire options.

📊 Rating: 4.8 ★★★★☆ (9,725 reviews)
📍 Location: 77-78 Marylebone High St, London W1U 5JX
📞Contact: +44 20 4578 4370
🌐 Website: https://www.bigmammagroup.com

11) The Clove Club

The Clove Club occupies a stunning space in the historic Shoreditch Town Hall. The restaurant’s interior feels both grand and intimate, with soaring ceilings and elegant modern touches.

The menu showcases innovative British cuisine with a focus on ingredients you might not expect. The chefs transform often-overlooked components into sophisticated dishes that challenge your expectations. Each plate arrives as a carefully crafted composition of flavours and textures.

The service strikes the right balance between attentive and unobtrusive. Staff demonstrate genuine knowledge about the ingredients and preparation methods. The wine pairings complement the creative dishes perfectly.

This is proper fine dining without the stuffiness that sometimes comes with it. The atmosphere feels relaxed despite the restaurant’s prestigious reputation in London’s food scene.

📊 Rating: 4.6 ★★★★☆ (1,151 reviews)
📍 Location: Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old St, London EC1V 9LT, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 20 7729 6496
🌐Website: http://thecloveclub.com

Essential Tips for Dining Out in London

London’s restaurant scene requires some local knowledge to navigate successfully. Making reservations well in advance, understanding dietary accommodation practices, and knowing what to wear will ensure your dining experience goes smoothly.

Understanding Reservation Etiquette

Book early for top restaurants. Popular London establishments often require reservations weeks or months ahead. Michelin-starred venues and trendy spots fill up quickly, especially for weekend dinner slots.

Call directly when possible. Many restaurants hold back tables for phone bookings that don’t appear online. This works particularly well for same-day availability.

Arrive on time. London restaurants typically hold tables for 15 minutes maximum. Late arrivals may lose their booking, especially during busy periods.

Confirm dietary requirements when booking. Most restaurants can accommodate special diets with advance notice. This prevents disappointment and ensures proper preparation.

Understand cancellation policies. Many upmarket restaurants charge cancellation fees, often £20-50 per person. Some require credit card details when booking.

Navigating Dietary Preferences

Vegetarian and vegan options are widespread. Most London restaurants offer dedicated plant-based menus or clearly marked options. High-end establishments often create special vegan tasting menus.

Halal options vary by location. Central London and areas like Brick Lane offer extensive halal dining. Always verify halal certification when booking.

Gluten-free dining is well-established. Many restaurants provide separate gluten-free menus and take cross-contamination seriously. Chains like Zizzi and Pizza Express offer dedicated gluten-free bases.

Inform staff about severe allergies. UK law requires restaurants to provide allergen information. Don’t hesitate to speak directly with kitchen staff about serious allergies.

Dress Codes and Ambience Considerations

Smart casual works for most venues. This typically means dark jeans or trousers with a collared shirt or smart top. Trainers are acceptable at casual restaurants but avoid flip-flops.

Fine dining requires formal attire. Michelin-starred restaurants often enforce jacket requirements for men. Women should opt for smart dresses or elegant separates.

Pub dining is relaxed. Gastropubs welcome casual dress, including jeans and comfortable shoes. Some historic pubs have character dress expectations during special events.

Check specific venue policies. Restaurant websites usually specify dress codes. When in doubt, err on the smarter side – being overdressed is rarely problematic in London’s dining scene.

London Restaurant Trends

London’s restaurant scene is rapidly changing with three major shifts shaping how we dine. Sustainability has moved from a nice-to-have to an essential practice, whilst tasting menus have become the gold standard for fine dining experiences and global flavours continue to blend into exciting new fusion concepts.

Emphasis on Sustainable Sourcing

Local partnerships are transforming how London restaurants operate. We’re seeing establishments work directly with Kent farms and Sussex producers to reduce food miles.

Many restaurants now display their supplier networks prominently on menus. Stem + Glory uses only British-grown vegetables. Crispin sources all meat from farms within 50 miles of London.

Zero-waste cooking has become standard practice. Chefs use vegetable scraps for stocks and turn food waste into creative dishes.

Seasonal menu changes happen monthly rather than quarterly. This keeps ingredients fresh and reduces storage needs.

Wine lists increasingly feature natural and organic producers. English wines from Surrey and Sussex vineyards appear alongside traditional French selections.

Plant-based options have expanded beyond token vegetarian dishes. Entire sections of menus now cater to plant-focused dining without compromising on flavour or presentation.

The Growth of Tasting Menus

Price points for tasting menus now range from £45 at casual spots to £200+ at Michelin-starred venues. This variety makes the format accessible to more diners.

Course counts typically run between 5-12 dishes. Shorter menus focus on ingredient quality whilst longer experiences showcase chef creativity.

Wine pairings have become more sophisticated. Sommeliers match lesser-known varietals with specific courses rather than defaulting to classic combinations.

Dietary accommodations are built into the format from the start. Vegetarian and vegan tasting menus receive equal attention to omnivore versions.

Storytelling through food drives menu construction. Each course connects to a theme, memory, or culinary tradition that creates emotional engagement.

Reservation systems for popular tasting menu restaurants book months in advance. This exclusivity has become part of the appeal for many diners.

Integration of Global Flavours

Korean-British fusion leads current flavour trends. Kimchi appears in traditional British pies whilst Korean barbecue techniques enhance Sunday roasts.

Middle Eastern ingredients like sumac, za’atar, and pomegranate molasses season European dishes. Tahini replaces traditional cream sauces in pasta dishes.

Peruvian influences bring aji amarillo peppers and quinoa into British cooking methods. Ceviche preparation techniques cure local fish varieties.

West African spices including berbere and harissa add heat and complexity to familiar dishes. Traditional British stews incorporate these bold seasonings.

Japanese techniques like koji fermentation and miso aging enhance British ingredients. Beef aged with miso develops deeper umami flavours.

Indian street food concepts adapt to British ingredients. Chaat preparations use local vegetables whilst maintaining authentic spice profiles and cooking methods.

Conclusion

London’s food scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. From bold new concepts to timeless favourites, these restaurants highlight the best the capital has to offer.

If you’re after a refined tasting menu or simply a relaxed evening with great food, this list offers a solid starting point for unforgettable dining experiences.

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Frequently Asked Questions

London’s dining scene raises many questions about Michelin stars, celebrity hotspots, and where to find the best local eats. The city offers three-star dining, famous street foods like fish and chips, and neighbourhood gems across different areas.

Is there a 3-Michelin-star restaurant in London?

Yes, London is home to several three-Michelin-starred restaurants. Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester and Core by Clare Smyth in Notting Hill are among the top picks. 

Although The Hand and Flowers is located just outside London in Marlow, it’s also highly regarded. These restaurants offer world-class cuisine and often require bookings well in advance.

Where do celebs eat in London?

Celebrities frequent upscale establishments in Mayfair and Knightsbridge. Nobu London attracts many famous faces with its Japanese cuisine.

The Ivy remains a classic celebrity spot in Covent Garden. Chiltern Firehouse in Marylebone is popular among actors and musicians.

Scott’s in Mayfair draws celebrities for its seafood. Many stars also visit private members’ clubs like Soho House locations.

What area in London has the best restaurants?

Mayfair offers the highest concentration of fine dining establishments. The area houses numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury venues.

Shoreditch provides excellent modern British and international cuisine. Borough Market area features outstanding gastropubs and casual dining spots.

What is the must-eat food in London?

Fish and chips remains London’s most iconic dish. We recommend trying it from a traditional chippy rather than tourist traps.

Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding represents classic British dining. Many pubs serve excellent versions throughout the week.

Full English breakfast includes bacon, eggs, sausages, beans, and black pudding. Afternoon tea with scones and finger sandwiches offers a quintessential London experience.

Where do London locals eat?

Locals frequent neighbourhood gastropubs for quality food and relaxed atmosphere. Areas like Clapham and Brixton offer excellent local favourites.

Borough Market provides fresh ingredients and casual dining spots. Many Londoners shop and eat here regularly.

Brick Lane offers authentic curry houses popular with residents. Local markets like Broadway Market feature independent food vendors.

What is famous street food in London?

Borough Market leads London’s street food scene with international vendors. We find excellent options from around the world here.

Food trucks serve gourmet burgers, Korean BBQ, and fusion dishes. Many operate near office areas during lunch hours.

Traditional pie and mash shops offer quick, affordable meals. These family-run businesses serve authentic London street food.

Markets like Camden and Portobello Road feature diverse street food stalls. Brick Lane bagel shops operate 24 hours serving fresh bagels with various fillings.