Exploring London isn’t just about iconic landmarks and fascinating history. It’s also about indulging in one of the most diverse and exciting food scenes in the world. From cozy gastropubs serving hearty British classics to elegant Michelin-starred restaurants redefining fine dining, the city offers endless options for every palate. You’ll also find trendy brunch spots, and international kitchens that bring flavors from across the globe right to the heart of the capital. If you’re wondering where to eat in London, this guide to the best restaurants in London will help you discover unforgettable dining experiences.
Core by Clare Smyth | Notting Hill
Located in the heart of Notting Hill, Core by Clare Smyth is one of London’s most celebrated fine dining restaurants. It is a must-visit for food lovers exploring the city. Led by renowned chef Clare Smyth—the first British woman to earn three Michelin stars—the restaurant offers a modern British tasting menu. It celebrates seasonal, sustainable ingredients with elegance and creativity. The minimalist yet warm interior creates an intimate atmosphere, while each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation. Whether you’re planning a luxury food experience or simply want to discover one of the best restaurants in London, Core by Clare Smyth promises an unforgettable culinary journey.
AngloThai | Marylebone
Blending British produce with the vibrant flavors of Thailand, AngloThai is one of London’s most exciting contemporary dining experiences. The restaurant was founded by chef John Chantarasak and sommelier Desiree Chantarasak. It brings together locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with authentic Thai cooking techniques and bold spice profiles. The result is a menu that feels both familiar and adventurous, perfectly paired with a natural wine selection that complements every dish. With its relaxed, modern setting and focus on sustainability, AngloThai stands out as one of the best restaurants in London. The perfect spot for travellers seeking an unique fusion of cultures and flavors.
Ikoyi | St. James’s
Ikoyi is a groundbreaking Michelin-starred restaurant redefining modern West African-inspired cuisine. Founded by childhood friends Jeremy Chan and Iré Hassan-Odukale, Ikoyi combines bold flavors, rare spices, and seasonal British produce. This restaurant creates dishes that are as innovative as they are unforgettable. The minimalist interior and refined presentation allow the vibrant, spice-driven menu to take center stage. It offers a dining experience unlike any other in the city. For those seeking creativity, culture, and contemporary elegance, Ikoyi is an absolute must-visit.
The Ritz Restaurant | Piccadilly
Housed within the iconic Ritz London hotel in Piccadilly, The Ritz Restaurant is a symbol of timeless elegance. It is one of the most prestigious fine dining destinations in the city. Holding a Michelin star, the restaurant is renowned for its refined British cuisine, crafted under the direction of Executive Chef John Williams MBE. Guests dine beneath glittering chandeliers and ornate ceilings, surrounded by opulent Louis XVI–style décor that perfectly complements the exquisite tasting menus and impeccable service. For travellers seeking a truly luxurious culinary experience, The Ritz Restaurant London offers an unforgettable taste of classic sophistication in the heart of the capital.
Sketch | Mayfair
Sketch is one of London’s most imaginative and Instagram-famous dining destinations. Set within a stunning 18th-century townhouse, this Michelin-starred restaurant combines art, design, and gastronomy. Sketch creates an experience that’s as visually captivating as it is delicious. Each room has its own unique personality—from the iconic pink Gallery to the futuristic egg-shaped pods in the restroom—making every visit feel like stepping into a dream. Led by visionary chef Pierre Gagnaire, the menu offers modern European cuisine that’s both playful and sophisticated. For travellers looking for one of the best restaurants in London that fuses fine dining with artistic flair, Sketch London is an unmissable stop.
Humble Chicken | Soho
Humble Chicken is a modern Japanese restaurant that has quickly become one of London’s hottest dining spots. Led by chef Angelo Sato, the restaurant offers a creative take on Japanese yakitori and omakase-style dining. Sato blends traditional techniques with contemporary flair. The menu celebrates simplicity and precision, featuring beautifully grilled skewers and seasonal small plates that showcase bold yet balanced flavors. With its minimalist design, intimate counter seating, and lively atmosphere, Humble Chicken London delivers an unforgettable dining experience.
L’Escargot | Soho
As one of London’s oldest and most charming French restaurants, L’Escargot has been a Soho institution since 1927. Housed in a beautiful Georgian townhouse, the restaurant exudes Parisian elegance with its warm, art-filled dining rooms and timeless atmosphere. L’Escargot is known for its signature escargots, rich French classics, and impeccable service. It offers a true taste of France in the heart of the city. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch, a romantic dinner, or cocktails in the upstairs lounge, this iconic spot captures the spirit of old-world glamour. For travellers seeking authentic French flair, L’Escargot is an unmissable destination.
Akoko | Fitzrovia
Akoko is a Michelin-starred restaurant that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of West Africa through a modern, fine dining lens. Founded by Aji Akokomi and led by head chef Ayo Adeyemi, Akoko takes guests on a sensory journey with bold flavors, smoky spices, and beautifully plated dishes. The menu is inspired by the cuisines of Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal. The warm, earthy interior—designed with terracotta tones and natural textures—perfectly complements the restaurant’s focus on authenticity and storytelling. For travellers looking to explore one of the best restaurants in London that brings African flavors to the forefront of contemporary cuisine, Akoko offers an unforgettable dining experience.
Restaurant Gordon Ramsay | Chelsea
Restaurant Gordon Ramsay is one of London’s most prestigious fine dining destinations and the flagship of the world-renowned chef. Holding three Michelin stars since 2001, it offers an exceptional culinary experience defined by precision, creativity, and impeccable service. Under the direction of Chef Patron Matt Abé, the menu showcases modern French cuisine crafted with the finest seasonal ingredients, presented in an intimate and sophisticated setting. Every detail—from the flawless plating to the warm hospitality—reflects the restaurant’s commitment to perfection. For travellers seeking a true taste of world-class gastronomy, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay is an unmissable experience.
The River Café | Hammersmith
Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Thames, The River Café is one of London’s most celebrated Italian fine dining restaurants. Renowned for its seasonal, ingredient-driven menu, the restaurant emphasizes fresh, high-quality produce and simple yet elegant Italian cooking techniques. With its light-filled, riverside setting and relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, The River Café London offers an unforgettable dining experience where every dish—from handmade pasta to delicate seafood—is crafted with care and precision. For travellers seeking one of the best restaurants in London that combines authentic Italian flavors with stunning riverside views, The River Café is a must-visit destination.
A. Wong | Victoria
A. Wong is a Michelin-starred restaurant celebrated for its innovative take on modern Chinese cuisine. Led by visionary chef Andrew Wong, the restaurant blends traditional Chinese recipes with contemporary techniques. A. Wong offers multi-course tasting menus that showcase bold flavors, delicate textures, and stunning presentation. Each dish tells a story, from dim sum to reinvented classics, highlighting the depth and diversity of Chinese culinary heritage. With its sleek, modern interior and impeccable service, A. Wong delivers an unforgettable Asian dining experience.
Plates | Shoreditch
Tucked away in the heart of London, Plates is a contemporary restaurant celebrated for its modern European cuisine with a creative twist. The menu features seasonal, locally sourced ingredients transformed into beautifully plated dishes that balance flavor, texture, and visual appeal. With its stylish, minimalist interior and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Plates provides an intimate dining experience perfect for both special occasions and casual indulgence. For travellers looking to explore one of the best restaurants in London that combines innovation, quality, and sophisticated presentation, Plates is a must-visit destination.
The Wolseley | Mayfair
The Wolseley is one of the London’s most elegant and beloved all-day cafés, seamlessly blending British charm with European grandeur. This restaurant is set in a stunning former car showroom with soaring ceilings and Art Deco design. It is renowned for its sophisticated atmosphere, impeccable service, and classic dishes. From indulgent breakfasts and traditional afternoon teas to refined dinners, The Wolseley offers a timeless dining experience that attracts locals, celebrities, and travellers alike. For those seeking old-world glamour and modern sophistication, The Wolseley is a must-visit destination.
Manteca | Shoreditch
Located in the heart of Soho, Manteca is one of London’s most talked-about restaurants, celebrated for its bold approach to modern Italian cuisine with a British twist. Helmed by chefs Chris Leach and David Carter, the restaurant focuses on hand-rolled pasta, nose-to-tail cooking, and an ever-changing menu that highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The warm, industrial-style interior and open kitchen create an inviting atmosphere perfect for sharing plates and discovering inventive flavors. With its rustic charm, exceptional food, and vibrant energy, Manteca stands out as one of the best restaurants in London.