10 Best London Restaurants You Have to Try
Why the Best London Restaurants Deserve a Spot on Your Foodie Bucket List
London is one of the world’s top culinary destinations, offering everything from fine-dining landmarks to trendy street food haunts. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or simply seeking a memorable meal out, the best London restaurants offer experiences that go far beyond just food. From international cuisine to innovative British menus, this diverse and ever-evolving scene is packed with flavour, flair, and unforgettable atmosphere.
If you’re looking to treat yourself, impress a client, or explore a new neighbourhood, here’s a list of the 10 best London restaurants that should be on your radar.
1. Dishoom – A Bombay-Inspired Favourite
Consistently ranked among the best London restaurants, Dishoom has carved a name for itself with its rich, flavourful Bombay comfort food and atmospheric décor. With multiple branches across the city, their King’s Cross and Covent Garden locations are particularly popular. Don’t miss the black daal, chicken ruby, or their famous bacon naan roll at breakfast.
2. Sketch – Michelin-Starred Dining in Dreamlike Surroundings
Sketch isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an immersive experience. With its famously pink Gallery dining room and a menu that blends art and gastronomy, Sketch is easily one of the best London restaurants for special occasions. The Michelin-starred Lecture Room & Library offers an exquisite tasting menu for the most discerning of diners.
3. Gymkhana – High-End Indian Cuisine in Mayfair
When it comes to refined Indian cuisine, Gymkhana is a standout among the best London restaurants. With elegant interiors and a focus on bold, traditional flavours, dishes like the wild muntjac biryani and tandoori masala lamb chops showcase the very best of regional Indian cooking.
4. The Ledbury – A Notable Return to Fine Dining
After a brief closure, Notting Hill’s iconic The Ledbury has returned to the list of best London restaurants with renewed energy and a focus on modern British cuisine. Chef Brett Graham’s approach is all about sustainability, technique, and ingredient-led dishes. With two Michelin stars, it remains a top pick for a memorable tasting menu.
5. Padella – The Pasta Spot That Always Draws a Queue
For handmade pasta without the fine-dining fuss, Padella is one of the best London restaurants for casual but incredibly satisfying dining. Their Borough Market location is a must-visit for their cacio e pepe, beef shin ragu, and other Italian staples served with simplicity and care.
6. Brat – Basque-Style Grilling with Serious Flavour
Brat in Shoreditch has developed cult status, securing its place among the best London restaurants thanks to its open-fire cooking and rustic elegance. The turbot is the star of the show, grilled whole over wood embers and served to share. For those who love bold, smoky flavours, this is a must-visit.
7. The Palomar – Vibrant Flavours from Jerusalem
Located in Soho, The Palomar offers a vibrant menu inspired by modern-day Jerusalem and Mediterranean traditions. It’s one of the best London restaurants for small plates, buzzy atmosphere, and showstopping flavour. Sit at the bar to watch the chefs in action while you enjoy dishes like beef tartare with aubergine cream or shakshuka with a twist.
8. Core by Clare Smyth – British Elegance with a Contemporary Twist
With three Michelin stars and countless accolades, Core by Clare Smyth in Notting Hill stands tall among the best London restaurants for high-end British dining. The menu focuses on sustainability and British ingredients, including dishes like Isle of Mull scallops and roasted cod with Morecambe Bay shrimps.
9. Hoppers – A Sri Lankan Street Food Sensation
If you’re after something different, Hoppers delivers a deeply spiced, unforgettable Sri Lankan menu that’s won it a firm place on the list of best London restaurants. From crispy dosas to rich bone marrow varuval and egg hoppers, every dish is packed with flavour and heat. The Soho and King’s Cross branches are particularly popular.
10. St. JOHN – Where Nose-to-Tail Dining Took Root
A pioneer of the nose-to-tail eating movement, St. JOHN in Clerkenwell is one of the most influential and enduring entries on any best London restaurants list. Chef Fergus Henderson’s bold, British-focused dishes celebrate underused cuts and traditional techniques. Expect dishes like roast bone marrow with parsley salad or braised ox cheek with horseradish mash.
Tips for Booking at the Best London Restaurants
Due to their popularity, many of the best London restaurants book up weeks in advance—especially for weekend dinners. Where possible, try midweek dining for easier reservations and often more relaxed service. Some venues like Padella operate on a no-reservation basis, so expect queues during peak times.
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Discover the Best London Restaurants for Every Occasion
Whether you’re after a lavish tasting menu or casual shared plates, the best London restaurants cater to every craving and occasion. From iconic institutions to innovative newcomers, the city’s dining scene is a true celebration of global influence and local talent. If you’re exploring London’s food scene, this top 10 list is just the beginning.
Which will you try first?