Best Restaurants in London
The list of must-visit great restaurants in London, offering flavors and styles for every taste
This article, curated by The Now Time London photographer, helps you find the best restaurants in London for a memorable dining experience.
Discover London’s top places to eat, from cozy hidden gems to Michelin-starred experiences.
From traditional British cuisine to global flavors, explore top places to eat across various neighborhoods.
Whether you’re dining in trendy Shoreditch, vibrant Soho, exclusive Mayfair or elegant Kensington, there’s something for every taste and style.
Best Restaurants in London – Summary
Top 15 Restaurants in London – The Now Time List
DISHOOM
★★★★★ “The bacon naan is sensational and the house chai feels bottomless, which was an added bonus.” – CB28PC
7 Boundary St, London, Greater London, E2 7JE | +44 20 7420 9324
Dishoom Shoreditch brings the nostalgic charm of Bombay cafés to East London. The ambiance is relaxed yet bustling, with vintage décor, sepia portraits, and a welcoming, eclectic atmosphere.
The cuisine is a mix of Indian and Asian, with vegan and gluten-free options available. Located in Shoreditch, this spot is known for being trendy and artistic.
What’s Special
Dishoom is famed for its rich, comforting black daal and signature dishes like the chicken ruby. It offers a Bombay café experience where you can have everything from breakfast naan rolls to spicy curries.
Why Go There
Go for the unique Bombay café experience, flavorful Indian street food, and the charming, historic vibe. It’s perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family in one of London’s trendiest neighborhoods.
Must Try
The signature Black Daal is a must-try, slow-cooked over 24 hours to achieve a deep, rich flavor.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price: $$
THE LEDBURY
★★★★★ “The food was a joy both visually and on the palate. The service was effortlessly efficient.” – Properlush
127 Ledbury Road, London, Notting Hill, W11 2AQ | +44 20 7792 9090
Renowned for its innovative European cuisine and exceptional tasting menu, The Ledbury ranks high among the best restaurants in London.
This elegant spot specializes in modern European cuisine. It offers a sophisticated, intimate setting in the trendy Notting Hill neighborhood.
What’s Special
The tasting menu, known for its precision and elegance, includes seasonal ingredients.
Why Go There
It has earned three Michelin stars, offering a top-tier gastronomic experience.
Must Try
White beetroot with truffle.
Website | Michelin | Price level: $$$$
SABOR
★★★★★ “You have to try this place! The ambience and the theatre of the kitchen are absorbing. The tapas dishes were superb!” – Paul H
35-37 Heddon Street, Mayfair, London W1B 4BR | +44 20 3319 8130
Sabor is vibrant, capturing the essence of Spain with its lively atmosphere.
The restaurant is split into two areas: the downstairs Tapas bar and upstairs Asador, both offering a dynamic dining experience.
The decor is reminiscent of traditional Spanish tiles and an open kitchen adds an interactive touch. The cuisine is Spanish, with a strong emphasis on authentic tapas, seafood, and specialties like suckling pig.
What’s Special
Sabor is a Michelin-starred Spanish restaurant offering two distinct experiences: tapas downstairs and a full-on Spanish feast at the Asador upstairs. It’s a place to explore both casual bites and more formal dining in one venue.
Why Go There
Sabor brings a true taste of Spain to London, with authentic dishes, top-tier service, and a vibrant atmosphere. If you love Spanish cuisine, this restaurant is a must-visit for tapas lovers and fine-dining enthusiasts alike.
Must Try
Suckling pig from the Asador section is a standout dish, roasted to perfection and served in traditional style.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$$
SKETCH
★★★★★ “Really enjoyed our experience at Sketch. Lovely, professional welcome, and the service was fab—as was the food. There was plenty of it and reasonably priced too. Would certainly go again!” — Melissa C
9 Conduit Street, Mayfair, London W1S 2XG | +44 20 7659 4500
This iconic restaurant blends art with cuisine, offering everything from afternoon tea to modern European dinners in a whimsical setting.
Sketch is known for its quirky, artistic interior, with each room designed uniquely, creating a whimsical, gallery-like experience. The Gallery Room is particularly famous for its pink décor and artistic elements, contributing to a memorable dining experience.
The restaurant serves a modern European menu with French influences, devised by acclaimed French chef Pierre Gagnaire.
Located in Mayfair, a luxurious, high-end neighborhood, Sketch is a hotspot for upscale dining and cultural fusion.
What’s Special
Sketch offers a unique blend of art and dining, with the restaurant continually transforming its spaces to showcase contemporary art while serving up gourmet dishes.
Why Go There
Visit Sketch for a multi-sensory experience blending fine dining, artistic interior design, and luxury. It’s particularly popular for afternoon tea and special occasions.
Must Try
Afternoon Tea is highly recommended, offering an array of exquisite pastries, finger sandwiches, and delicate scones.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$$
CORE by CLARE SMYTH
★★★★★ “The food and service were exceptional! Everything was perfectly paced, and each dish was a work of art.” – Sarah D.
92 Kensington Park Road, Notting Hill, London, W11 2PN | +44 20 3937 5086
CORE by Clare Smyth, one of the best restaurants in London, offers a refined yet inviting atmosphere. The interior is elegant with modern touches, and the ambiance is one of understated luxury.
The restaurant is famous for its modern British cuisine, with an emphasis on seasonal and sustainable ingredients. Located in Notting Hill, this two-Michelin-starred venue delivers creative dishes in a setting that balances sophistication with warmth.
What’s Special
CORE offers a tasting menu that changes with the seasons, featuring a range of meticulously crafted dishes using the finest British produce. There’s also the option of wine pairing to elevate the experience.
Why Go There
For anyone seeking an unforgettable fine-dining experience in London, CORE is a must-visit. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in world-class cuisine, the balance of creativity and technical precision in every dish makes it stand out.
Must Try
One of their most acclaimed dishes is the Lamb Carrot, a beautifully plated, inventive take on lamb. Another favorite is the potato and roe, a CORE signature dish.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$$
THE CLOVE CLUB
★★★★★ “A fabulous meal! The tasting menu was exceptional, with unique flavors and incredible presentations. The service was perfect.” – Louie F
Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old Street, London EC1V 9LT | +44 20 7729 6496
The Clove Club offers a sleek yet relaxed atmosphere in the historic Shoreditch Town Hall.
It’s renowned for its modern British cuisine, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes that push culinary boundaries.
The dining area is bright, minimalist, and inviting, while an open kitchen adds a touch of theater to the experience.
What’s Special
Known for its tasting menu, The Clove Club emphasizes seasonal, British ingredients, offering diners a fresh, new take on familiar flavors. A notable feature is the open kitchen, allowing guests to see the artistry behind each dish.
Why Go There
The Clove Club is ideal for those seeking a Michelin-starred experience with a contemporary twist. The combination of outstanding food, impeccable service, and a casual atmosphere makes it a top choice for foodies and adventurous diners alike.
Must Try
Smoked Wiltshire Trout is a standout dish that embodies The Clove Club’s dedication to bold flavors and seasonal ingredient.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$$
IKEDA
★★★★★ “One of the best Japanese in London. The sushi and sashimi are always fresh, and the atmosphere is warm.” – FoodieExplorer79
30 Brook Street, Mayfair, London W1K 5DJ | +44 0207 629 2730
Ikeda offers an authentic Japanese experience in the heart of Mayfair, known for its minimalist décor and traditional setting.
The restaurant specializes in sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese classics. With a refined yet cozy ambiance, it’s a favorite among locals and Japanese expatriates alike.
What’s Special
This restaurant is a go-to for those craving traditional Japanese cuisine, especially sushi and sashimi.
Why Go There
Go for an authentic Japanese dining experience that transports you to a Tokyo sushi bar. It’s great for business meals or intimate dinners.
Must Try
Try the O Toro, Yellowtail, or fresh shrimp sashimi—top recommendations.
Website | Foursquare | Price level: $$$
Best Restaurants in London – Part 2
PADELLA SHOREDITCH
★★★★★ “The best pasta we’ve had in London. Fresh, authentic Italian food with a great vibe!” – Guide05807224123“
1 Phipp Street, London EC2A 4PS, Shoreditch
Padella offers a casual, trendy vibe with a focus on fresh, handmade pasta inspired by traditional Italian recipes. Set in Shoreditch, the atmosphere is lively yet cozy.
What’s Special
Padella is renowned for its handmade, fresh pasta, which is made daily on-site. The restaurant focuses on a menu filled with affordable yet high-quality Italian dishes.
A standout feature is its £2 Negroni happy hour from Monday to Friday (5:00–6:30 pm), making it a perfect spot for a budget-friendly yet tasty meal.
Why Go There
People visit for the authenticity and simplicity of the dishes, which stay true to Italian culinary traditions. It’s an excellent spot for a quick but delicious lunch or dinner with high-quality ingredients, as found in all the best restaurants in London.
Must Try
The Pappardelle with Beef Ragu is the highlight, offering a hearty, flavorful combination of soft pasta with a rich, savory sauce that has been highly praised by diners.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$
GYMKHANA
★★★★★ “Some of the best lamb chops anywhere.” – Moniaits
42 Albemarle Street, Mayfair, London W1S 4JH | +44 20 3011 5900
Gymkhana in Mayfair offers an elegant dining experience inspired by the elite Indian social clubs of the colonial era. The two-level restaurant has a sophisticated yet intimate vibe with rich, dark wood interiors and vintage-inspired décor.
The cuisine is modern Indian, blending traditional flavors with seasonal British ingredients. Located in the heart of Mayfair, it is one of London’s top destinations for upscale Indian dining.
What’s Special
Gymkhana is known for its tandoor and chaat dishes, offering a refined yet authentic taste of Indian cuisine.
Signature dishes such as the kid goat methi keema and muntjac biryani make this a special place for anyone seeking gourmet Indian food with a twist.
Why Go There
Go to Gymkhana for its Michelin-starred food that elevates Indian cuisine to a new level. The luxurious setting, impeccable service, and expertly crafted dishes make it ideal for special occasions or business meetings.
It’s the place to indulge in bold, traditional flavors reimagined in creative ways, appealing to both connoisseurs of Indian food and those looking to explore.
Must Try
The Muntjac Deer Biryani is a standout dish. Served with pomegranate and mint raita, this biryani is rich in flavor, with tender pieces of deer and aromatic spices, making it one of the most talked-about dishes at the restaurant.
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Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$
ANDREW EDMUNDS
★★★★★ “A beautifully charming step back into the past… Andrew Edmunds still offers delicious classic food in warm intimate surroundings, with genuinely friendly service and reasonable prices.” – onlyonematclark
46 Lexington Street, London W1F 0LP | +44 20 7437 5708
Andrew Edmunds, nestled in Soho, exudes an old-world charm with its intimate, romantic setting inside an 18th-century townhouse.
The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, with candle-lit tables that add a rustic charm. The restaurant specializes in British and European cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and an exceptional wine list.
It’s one of Soho’s last bastions of its original character.
What’s Special
Andrew Edmunds is famous for its seasonally inspired British fare and a reasonably priced wine list, often featuring rare and older vintages. The intimate setting makes it perfect for romantic dinners, and its unpretentious vibe has kept it a local favorite for decades.
Why Go There
The quality of the food, the attentive service, and the great wine selection make it a memorable dining experience. It’s the perfect spot for those looking for a cozy, historic dining experience in central London.
Must Try
The roasted duck breast is a standout, often praised for its tenderness and flavorful preparation. Additionally, the burrata and beef mains receive high marks for their delicious simplicity.
Website | Instagram | | Foursquare | Price level: $$
MORO
★★★★★ “The lamb cooked to perfection, with accompanying tapas, was simply divine.” – odunners72
34-36 Exmouth Market, London EC1R 4QE | +44 20 7833 8336
Specializing in Mediterranean cuisine with a strong emphasis on Moorish and Spanish influences, this restaurant offers a vibrant, casual ambiance that mirrors its Mediterranean décor.
The menu features a diverse range of Mediterranean and Spanish dishes, with a particular focus on Moorish flavors, creating a unique dining experience that blends tradition with a contemporary twist. Perfect for a casual yet flavorful culinary experience.
What’s Special
Known for its wood-fired meats and emphasis on Moorish-Spanish fusion, Moro brings Mediterranean warmth to London dining. Tapas-style dishes alongside robust mains add variety.
Why Go There
The unique Moorish influence combined with Mediterranean flair sets Moro apart from typical Spanish or European offerings. It’s perfect for casual lunches or relaxed dinners with a rustic yet refined twist.
Must Try
Try the wood-roasted lamb with Moorish spices, a standout due to its tender meat and bold, smoky flavors from the oven.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$
BRAT
★★★★★ “The grilled turbot was extraordinary! Simple yet bursting with flavor. Definitely one of the best meals I’ve had in London!” – JC
First floor, 4 Redchurch St, E1 6JL
Located in Shoreditch, a trendy, vibrant area known for its eclectic dining and arts scene, this Basque-inspired Michelin-starred restaurant is famous for its wood-fired grill dishes.
Casual yet refined, Brat exudes a rustic charm with a focus on wood-fired cooking. The ambiance is lively, with a blend of industrial Shoreditch vibes and Basque country warmth.
Expect expertly prepared seafood and grilled meats.
What’s Special
The open fire grill is central to the menu, offering unique dishes like grilled turbot, which has become their signature. Their wine selection complements the dishes with natural wines from Spain and the Basque region, further enhancing the experience.
Why Go There
If you appreciate simple, elevated flavors from the Basque region, Brat is perfect. The focus on fresh ingredients, expertly grilled over open flames, is ideal for food lovers looking to enjoy rustic yet refined cuisine in one of Shoreditch’s trendiest spots. Brat’s Michelin star solidifies its status as a must-visit for fine dining lovers.
Must Try
Grilled Turbot is a standout dish that embodies the essence of the restaurant’s open fire cooking. It’s perfectly charred on the outside while tender and moist inside. The wood-fired lamb chops and the famous burnt cheesecake also come highly recommended by regulars for a true Brat experience.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$$
THE PALOMAR
★★★★★ “Fabulous food with great service. Highly recommend picking several dishes for a tapas-style meal to try various flavors.” – Carol L.
34 Rupert St, London W1D 6DN | +44 20 7439 8777
The Palomar, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Soho, is renowned for its blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors.
The restaurant offers a lively and intimate setting, especially if you’re seated at the bar facing the open kitchen, which adds to the immersive dining experience.
What’s Special
The Palomar is celebrated for its innovative blend of Israeli, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisine, with dishes inspired by Jerusalem. It’s a culinary journey full of bold spices and vibrant flavors.
Diners can enjoy a lively interaction with chefs at the open kitchen, making it more than just a meal but an interactive experience. A special mention goes to their Bib Gourmand recognition for delivering high-quality food at good value.
Why Go There
For its distinctive and modern approach to Jerusalem cuisine, exceptional service, and lively atmosphere. The Palomar’s ever-buzzing vibe makes it a great spot for those seeking something energetic and unique in London’s food scene.
Its central location, near Piccadilly Circus, adds to its appeal for both locals and tourists alike.
Must Try
A standout dish is the Kubaneh, a traditional Jewish bread served with tomato & tahini dips. Other popular favorites include the Jerusalem Mix and the Octopus With Chickpeas, a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$
APRICITY
★★★★★ “Dishes were really tasty—especially the carrot dish and the venison pithivier, which was the tastiest venison I have ever eaten. Service was superb: knowledgeable, friendly, and not too stuffy.” – Victoria C
68 Duke Street, London W1K 6JU | +44 20 8017 2780
Apricity is a stylish, eco-conscious restaurant located in Mayfair, blending sustainability with fine dining.
The ambiance is bright and modern, creating a calm oasis just steps from busy Oxford Street.
The cuisine is primarily plant-based and modern European, with a focus on sustainable, low-waste practices.
What’s Special
Apricity stands out for its sustainable practices and it holds a Michelin Green Star for its commitment to eco-friendly dining.
The restaurant incorporates seasonal, plant-led dishes while offering creative meat and fish options. Their low-waste ethos is subtly integrated into every aspect of the dining experience, from the food to the wine list, featuring low-intervention wines.
Why Go There
The focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative plant-based dishes makes it a must-visit for adventurous eaters.
Whether you’re looking for a five or seven-course tasting menu (with plant-based options) or à la carte dishes, Apricity blends ethical eating with elegance.
Must Try
Try the Devon Pork Belly with braised blade and creamed kale or the Cull Yaw Ewe with curry-spiced chickpeas and braised leek. The vegetarian options, such as the rhubarb, cashew cream, and honeycomb dessert, are also a delight.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$
CINNAMON CLUB
★★★★★ “Fab food in a fabulous, historic environment.” – Coralie R
30-32 Great Smith Street, Westminster, London SW1P 3BU | +44 20 7222 2555
Located in the historic Old Westminster Library, the Cinnamon Club offers a refined Indian dining experience in a grand setting. The ambiance mixes old-world elegance with contemporary luxury.
The menu features modern Indian cuisine with Asian influences.
What’s Special
The Cinnamon Club specializes in reinterpreting traditional Indian dishes with a modern twist, using high-quality British ingredients. Its unique charm lies in the fusion of ancient Indian spices with European techniques.
Special mention goes to their tasting menu and the use of less common meats like venison and lamb, often in dishes inspired by India’s royal courts.
Why Go There
Go for the unique blend of traditional Indian flavors presented in a contemporary style. It’s ideal for business meetings or special occasions due to its sophisticated setting and exceptional service.
The combination of history and flavor makes it stand out.
Must Try
Try the signature Tandoori-Spiced Balmoral Venison served with black stone flower reduction, a dish known for its richness and depth of flavors.
Website | Instagram | Foursquare | Price level: $$$
Best Restaurants in London – Bonus!
3 Michelin-rated Restaurants in London
ALEX DILLING at Hotel Café Royal
This two-star Michelin restaurant in Piccadilly showcases the culinary mastery of Alex Dilling, who is known for his refined French techniques and exceptional ingredients.
The dining experience is elevated with classic French dishes, perfect for a special evening out in London.
DA TERRA
Located in Bethnal Green, Da Terra holds two Michelin stars.
It offers an innovative 11-course tasting menu that combines modern European cuisine with Brazilian influences, led by head chef Rafael Cagali. This is a perfect spot for adventurous fine dining.
CLAUDE BOSI at Bibendum
Another two-starred gem, this South Kensington restaurant celebrates French haute cuisine with a modern twist.
The elegant setting complements chef Claude Bosi’s exceptional dishes, making it one of London’s most luxurious dining destinations.
London’s dining scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering incredible options for every taste and preference.
From intimate hidden gems to internationally acclaimed restaurants, the best restaurants in London promise unforgettable culinary experiences for visitors and locals alike.
Whether you’re seeking Michelin-starred fine dining, vibrant spots in neighborhoods like Soho, Mayfair, or Shoreditch, or craving flavors from around the world, this city has something for everyone.
Wherever your travels take you, exploring these top dining destinations curated by The Now Time team of London photographers will ensure a delicious and memorable stay in the capital.