London’s restaurant scene is one of the best in the world.
From centuries-old institutions steeped in history to trendy rooftops with views of the city skyline, and from refined fine dining to casual, comforting neighbourhood gems, there’s something for every occasion and every taste.
As a Londoner (and someone who spends far too much time eating out), these are the restaurants I always recommend to visitors, the ones I go back to time and time again, and a few I’ve completely fallen in love with this year.
There’s a mix of classics, aesthetically-pleasing restaurants, and cheap eats as well as pricier options. This is the perfect list for anyone visiting London!
1. Lima London, Fitzrovia
Whenever I get a craving for Peruvian food, Lima London is my first stop.
Bright, fresh, and vibrant, the menu is a celebration of Peru’s incredible flavours – think zingy ceviche, beautifully grilled meats, and colourful vegetable dishes.
The atmosphere is chic but relaxed, and the presentation is as gorgeous as the taste.
It’s the kind of restaurant that leaves you feeling light, happy, and already planning your next visit. A true gem in Fitzrovia.
2. Rules, Covent Garden
You can’t talk about restaurants in London without mentioning Rules.
Established in 1798, it’s the city’s oldest restaurant and still one of its most iconic.
Famous for its traditional British cooking – think rich game dishes, hearty roasts, and indulgent puddings – Rules is a slice of history in the heart of Covent Garden.
The interiors are gloriously old-school with dark wood, leather banquettes, and portraits on the walls, and dining here feels like stepping back in time.
It’s very British, very special, and an absolute must if you want to experience classic London dining at its best.
3. Sushisamba, Covent Garden
For something completely different, head to Sushisamba in Covent Garden.
With its rooftop terrace and panoramic views over London, it’s one of the most glamorous spots in the city.
The menu is a vibrant mix of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian influences, so expect colourful sushi rolls, moqueca, and inventive cocktails.
It’s stylish, buzzy, and perfect for a celebratory night out.
The combination of location, views, and food makes it one of those restaurants that always impresses, even for seasoned Londoners.
4. Berenjak, Soho
One of London’s toughest tables to book, Berenjak is worth every bit of effort, so make sure you book far in advance.
Tucked away in Soho, it’s a Persian-inspired restaurant serving up Iranian kebabs and incredible sharing plates.
The food is rich, smoky, and designed for tearing, dipping, and sharing.
The cosy, dimly lit interiors make it feel intimate and buzzy all at once.
5. Randall & Aubin, Soho
Randall & Aubin is a Soho institution.
Part seafood brasserie, part Champagne bar, it’s lively, loud, and full of character.
The seafood is some of the best in London and everything pairs beautifully with a glass (or two) of fizz.
It’s the kind of place where the tables are close together, the conversation is lively, and you leave feeling like you’ve had a proper London night out.
6. Bocca di Lupo, Soho
Tucked away in Soho, Bocca di Lupo is one of the best Italian restaurants in London.
It’s authentic, intimate, and always buzzing with energy. The menu focuses on regional Italian cooking, with small and large plates that are perfect for sharing — I love sitting at the counter to watch the chefs at work.
The quality of ingredients is incredible, the flavours are bold, and the atmosphere is lively but cosy.
It’s the kind of restaurant that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a neighbourhood trattoria in Rome, right in the heart of London.
7. Cecconi’s, Mayfair
Cecconi’s is one of those effortlessly chic spots that feels timeless. There are multiple locations around London, but my favourites are Mayfair and Soho.
With its dark wood, green leather banquettes, and marble bar, it’s glamorous without being intimidating – the kind of place you can settle into for hours over good wine and great food.
The menu is classic Italian done beautifully: cicchetti for sharing, fresh pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and indulgent secondi.
It’s buzzy and stylish, perfect for everything from a long lunch to a romantic dinner. I always leave feeling like I’ve had a little slice of la dolce vita in the middle of Mayfair.
8. Quaglino’s, Mayfair
Ah, Quaglino’s – or Quags as those in the know call it. This place is one of my absolute favourites and has been for over a decade now.
Iconic, a little decadent, and always a good time, Quaglino’s combines live music, creative cocktails, and fine dining in a glamorous art-deco setting. The atmosphere is buzzy without being over the top, and it’s the perfect spot for a special night out with friends or a date.
Every time I go, I leave on a high, and it’s firmly cemented itself as one of my London staples.
9. Amazonico, Mayfair
If you’re after showy glamour, Amazonico is the place.
This Mayfair hotspot is tropical, vibrant, and feels like stepping into another world.
Lush greenery fills the dining room, live DJs keep the atmosphere buzzing, and the menu blends Latin American flavours with Japanese and Mediterranean influences. It’s bold, indulgent, and very much a “see and be seen” kind of restaurant.
Perfect for a special night out when you want dinner to feel like an event.
10. Savoy Grill, The Strand
Few restaurants are as iconic as the Savoy Grill. Part of Gordon Ramsay’s group, this legendary restaurant has been serving Londoners for over a century.
The art deco interiors are glamorous and timeless, and the menu focuses on classic British and French dishes – think Beef Wellington, lobster thermidor, and perfectly executed roasts.
Dining here feels like stepping into a piece of history, and it’s perfect for a special occasion.
11. The Italian Greyhound, Marylebone
I am completely obsessed with The Italian Greyhound.
It’s stylish, modern, and chic without being stuffy, and the food is just fantastic.
Expect fresh pizzas, handmade pasta, and excellent antipasti, all served in a relaxed, contemporary setting.
It’s my go-to when I want Italian that feels elevated but still cosy and approachable.
12. Julie’s, Notting Hill
I only discovered Julie’s recently, but it’s quickly become one of my favourite neighbourhood gems.
Tucked away in Notting Hill, it’s a beautiful, intimate space with gorgeous interiors and a relaxed vibe.
The food is refined yet comforting, with a menu that changes with the seasons, and the service is warm and welcoming. It’s the kind of restaurant you fall in love with instantly and want to keep as your own secret spot.
13. Gold Mine, Queensway
If you love Chinese food, Gold Mine on Queensway is legendary.
People travel from all over London (and beyond) for their roast duck, which is genuinely some of the best you’ll find outside of Hong Kong.
It’s unfussy and authentic – don’t expect glitz, but do expect plates of food that are absolutely worth the wait. It’s the kind of spot that feels like a real insider tip, and I never leave without ordering the duck and a spread of sharing dishes.
14. Daphne’s, Chelsea
Daphne’s is pure Italian elegance in the heart of Chelsea (can you tell I love Italian food, haha).
A local favourite since the 1960s, it’s glamorous without being flashy, with a dining room that feels timeless and a dog-friendly conservatory that’s especially beautiful in the summer.
The menu celebrates classic Italian cooking – think handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and beautifully simple seasonal dishes that let the ingredients shine.
It’s the kind of place that feels equally perfect for a chic weekday lunch or a celebratory dinner, and the service is always impeccable.
For me, Daphne’s captures that effortlessly stylish Italian spirit that makes dining out such a joy.
15. Hawksmoor, Multiple Locations
Hawksmoor has become a London institution for good reason.
It’s hands-down the best steakhouse in the city, with beautiful cuts of British beef cooked to perfection.
The sides are almost as famous as the steak – triple-cooked chips, creamed spinach, and that addictive bone marrow gravy. The interiors feel classic and a little bit clubby, perfect for long dinners with friends or celebratory meals.
If you’re a meat lover, Hawksmoor should be at the very top of your list.
16. Granger & Co, Multiple Locations
Granger & Co is one of my all-time favourites for both brunch and casual dinners alike.
Founded by Australian chef Bill Granger, it’s bright, breezy, and always buzzing.
The ricotta hotcakes are famous (and worth the hype), but the evening menu is just as good – fresh, global flavours with plenty of veggie options and healthy twists.
Every location has the same laid-back, stylish vibe, and it’s a spot I never get tired of.
17. Dishoom, Multiple Locations
No list of the best restaurants in London would be complete without Dishoom.
Beloved by Londoners and visitors alike, Dishoom is inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay.
The food is comforting, flavourful, and always consistent. Their bacon naan roll is a breakfast institution, but for lunch and dinner I can never resist the black daal, chicken ruby, and a pile of fresh naan.
Every location has its own vibe, but all of them capture that same magic.
18. Chucs, Multiple Locations
Chucs is pure Riviera glamour in the heart of London.
Inspired by 1950s Amalfi Coast style, it’s all chic interiors, polished service, and a menu that feels indulgent yet effortlessly elegant.
Expect Italian classics like handmade pasta, risottos, and perfectly grilled fish, alongside lighter Mediterranean dishes that are perfect for a long lunch or a leisurely dinner.
It’s stylish without being stuffy, and each location has that same sun-drenched, holiday-esque vibe.
Whenever I want to escape London for a couple of hours without actually leaving, Chucs is where I go.
19. Pizza Pilgrims, Multiple Locations
For something more casual but equally delicious, Pizza Pilgrims is one of my go-tos.
Affordable, fun, and always reliable, they serve up proper Neapolitan-style pizza with chewy crusts and simple, flavourful toppings.
It’s unfussy, it’s always buzzing, and it’s the kind of place that never disappoints whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in with friends over a bottle of wine.
One of the Best Restaurant Scenes in the World
I’ve been to 55 countries, and I still maintain the belief that London has one of the best restaurant scenes in the world.
You can make fun of British food all you want, but London has to be one of the most diverse foodie scenes after NYC.
There are so many restaurants it would be impossible to try them all, but if you’re a tourist or visitor coming to London, these are all the ones I think you need to try!
Looking for breakfast spots? Check out my 15 best brunch & breakfast spots in London!
Catherine Lux is a veteran travel blogger by night and the Head of Content Marketing at Amazon by day. Originally from Surrey, she spent four years living in Australia (2007-2009, and 2016-2018), and now lives in London. An ex-party girl sometimes prone to relapses, she loves nothing more than sharing her fine dining and luxury travel experiences with her loyal readers.
