London and food are a match made in heaven. The lively energy of London streets also influences the food scene in London. You might find yourself in an emotional tornado trying to locate the perfect place to eat for a fun day out with your friends or a classy, suited-up date with your loved one, as the options in London are plenty.
Here are the best places to eat in and around central London; the recommendations are listed without a specific order. Feel free to stop by these places if you have a free day and want to explore the range of your taste buds.
From hot, spicy Indian food to exquisite cuisines, London has them all. As a place housing people of various ethnicities, this is a plus.
Some of the Best Places to Eat in London
1. Tandoor Chop House
Let’s start with some spicy fusion food. Tandoor Chop House, located on Adelaide Street, combines North Indian cuisine with the classic British Chop House experience. This is the perfect place for a day out with friends; plenty of vegetarian options will also be available. The place serves the best of both worlds, and you can find the perfect soft naan to go with your selected prime-cut meat.
The Sunday thali might blow your mind. The Pale Ale from India is the perfect alcoholic drink for your perfectly crispy lamb chops. The chickpea chaat has the ideal combination of saltiness and spiciness. Their Butter chicken naan and Bone Marrow Naan are a must-try.
Even though it’s a fusion of Indian food, please note that they don’t serve rice. Feel free to ask the friendly servers for recommendations if you’re lost.
Address: 8 Adelaide Street, Covent Garden, London WC2N 4HZ, United Kingdom.
2. The Garden Cafe
The Garden Cafe has one of the best food hygiene ratings. This serene oasis amidst the concrete jungle will surely cater to your modern British and European taste buds. They focus on fresh and seasonal food. The menu changes daily, and vegan options are available if requested.
Children’s options are also available. The pretty atmosphere and the friendly staff will certainly make your visit a memorable one. Booking beforehand would be recommended.
The decaf mocha is good, and the grilled John Dory will leave you mouth-watering. The cold cucumber soup will leave you freshened up. There are plenty of wine options, too.
Address: 5 Lambeth Palace Rd, London SE1 7LB, United Kingdom.
3. Roti King
Craving some Malaysian and Singaporean street food but stuck in the streets of London? Roti King might be your saviour. This restaurant has 2 other branches in various parts of London, and the popularity is self-explanatory.
The star dishes include the seafood kari laksa, Roti Canai with kari, and nasi lemak. All these are fairly priced. The menu is small, but the food is worth every second, and it is authentic.
The Battersea branch can certainly be called the best one. Tables are closely arranged, so the place isn’t ideal for a quiet date. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so you might see small lines in the front since it’s first-come, first-served. This place can be your escape from normal pizzas and burgers.
Address: Battersea Power Station, 16 Arches Ln, Nine Elms, London SW11 8AB, United Kingdom.
4. The Clove Club
Welcome to the pricier side (totally worth the experience). This fine dining experience is set in the historic halls of the Grade II-listed Shoreditch Town Hall. The blue-tiled room has a cosy vibe. The Michelin-starred restaurant will not have you rushing through the meals.
The servers are happy to explain everything on the menu to you slowly. If you love fresh ingredients and surprising combos, this is the place.
The seafood is exquisite. The Duck and Ginger Consomme is lip-smacking. Furthermore, everything here will have you coming back for more. This is truly one of the best British fine dining experiences in London.
Address: Shoreditch Town Hall, 380 Old St, London EC1V 9LT, United Kingdom.
5. Chishuru
Chishuru in central London is the place to go if you’re craving traditional West African food. This is another Michelin-starred restaurant, and the food is exquisite. Even the vegetarian options are lovely. The food is authentically Nigerian, with a smart, fresh makeover. The pricing is reasonable for their portions.
Do try the Okra Martini. Remember to try the Fried Plantain, Bavette Steak, and Goat Curry. Chishuru might have you falling in love with African cuisines.
Address: 3 Great Titchfield St, London W1W 8AX, United Kingdom.
6. Bibi
Bibi is another Indian flavour on the streets of London. Bibi uses the best-quality ghee and masalas. It is also the recipient of many prestigious awards. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxing. The food is as outstanding as the service. The seating is limited, so you might have to make a reservation to soak up the wonderful experience with no boring waiting lines.
Before each course, the server might explain the dish and its story. Bibi is truly an experience. It is known for its Lamb Belly Galouti, Sharmaji’s Lahori Chicken, Truffle, Lobster Roll, and Rumali Roti. The open kitchen with counter seating gives you the perfect enjoyment. Bibi can easily be considered the best restaurant in Mayfair.
Address: 42N Audley St, London W1K 6ZP, United Kingdom.
7. Smoking Goat
Thailand’s canteen-inspired Smoking Goat serves quality food at affordable prices. However, the food is not entirely traditional, as a beautiful twist exists. A live kitchen is one of the best features of this place. This is the perfect place to have cocktails and chill with your friends. The place is laid back and will be amazing to anyone without gluten restrictions.
The sticky fish sauce wings will have you drooling all over the place. The vegetarian options are also splendid. Also, don’t forget to add Roasted Pork Belly and Bone Marrow Massaman Curry to the list of things to try out. The food can be a little spicy. However, they do give you a heat warning.
Address: 64 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JJ, United Kingdom.
8. Rochelle Canteen
Rochelle Canteen has a seasonal menu and a lively and bright atmosphere. The small menu, however, will satisfy your tummy and heart. The place is easily wheelchair-accessible. The grapes hanging off the vines are also real (do try one out). This is easily one of the best first-date ideas.
The restaurant is in the garden of what used to be a school and is now surrounded by a modern art complex. The entry is slightly hidden.
The wine list is amazing for a night out. The food is more adventurous than mainstream with its combinations. It is indeed a culinary delight.
Try the Confit Pork Belly, Middle Eastern Koftas, and Chicken Liver Pate. Do make reservations before the visit.
Address: 16 Playground Gardens, London E2 7FA, United Kingdom
9. Jikoni
Jikoni is an American-British restaurant that offers an American twist on Asian comfort foods. It offers vegan options, outdoor seating, and private dining rooms. Jikoni is highly recommended if you’re in the Marylebone area.
The menu is super interesting due to the mix of various cuisines. The prawn toast scotch egg is marvellous with the banana ketchup, and the Bloody Mary twist called the Achari Mary (Blood Mary with pickles) will be quite refreshing. The Aloo chaat is too good. The Burrata salad will spread its freshness to you. Do try the crispy aubergine and the butternut squash pakora.
Address: 19-21 Blandford St, London W1U 3DJ, United Kingdom.
10. Sessions Art Club
Sessions Art Club is one of the most beautiful restaurants in London. The two-story high room is in a Grade II listed building in Clerkenwell. However, the place is well-hidden and lively once you enter the hall. The interior is elegant, and the food here is unbeatable.
The servers will kindly guide you to the dishes. The portions here are small. However, this will help you taste all the flavours. It should be noted that all the ingredients used are seasonal.
Do not miss the smoked eel, Brown Shrimp Croquettes, Raspberry Sorbet, and Chocolates. Make an appointment, as the place is popular.
Address: 4th Floor, Farringdon, 24 Clerkenwell Green, London EC1R 0NA, UK
11. Apricity
Apricity is known for its low-waste operation. The flavours are fresh, as the ingredients are locally and seasonally sourced. The puddings are worth melting over here. The place is dog-friendly, and your furry friends are welcome. There are plenty of vegan options here as well.
This place is perfect for the warm hospitality shown by the servers, who are always ready to tell you about the sustainability of each dish. They also cater to special needs, like food allergies. The wine pairing will also add to the taste of the amazing food. The pricing can be a little high for some. However, the overall experience is guaranteed.
The don’t miss out list includes Oyster mushrooms, Braised Ox tongue and scallops.
Address: 68 Duke St, London W1K 6JU, United Kingdom.
12. Durak Tantuni
Durak Tantuni is a Turkish fast-food restaurant that runs all day and late at night. The speciality here is the Tantuni, a kind of wrap. This place has the best Tantuni in all of London. The taste is very similar to the traditional Tantuni. The shop is not aesthetically pleasing to see. However, the food provided is top-notch, and they do not compromise in the case of cleanliness.
The meat is soft and tender and will have you return for more. Please note that cards are not accepted. Better to have some cash in your pocket. It should be mentioned that the food here is not at all expensive. The pockets are safe, and the tummy is, too.
Try out the Tantuni wrap and the Tantuni in bread. Squeeze plenty of lemon on the wrap. Have an Ayran Drink to wash out the Tantuni. The staff is extremely polite and happily assists you throughout the dining experience.
Address: 390 W Green Rd, London N15 3PX, United Kingdom.
13. OMBRA
Ombra is an Italian restaurant famous for its Italian cuisine. There is free WiFi, heated outdoor seating and plenty of vegetarian options. It is situated in a previous art gallery and adds Venetian vibes to the Bethnal Green.
The staff is great at recommending foods you like and is super patient. The music and atmosphere are super chill. The portions can be relatively small.
You can find plenty of fine Italian wines and digestives here. Tiramisu is a must-try as it is fluffy. The most trending foods over here include the Paccheri with Mussels, Focaccia, Red and Kiki.
Address: 1 Vyner St, Bethnal Garden, London E2 9DG, United Kingdom.
14. Trullo
Trullo is another Italian-inspired restaurant that is seasonally based. The spot is great for talking with friends over drinks. The place is bound to take your breath away at first sight. None of its dishes are complicated.
However, this doesn’t mean that the quality is bad. Trullo passes the taste test and cleanliness test with flying colours. It is a little bit expensive, but it is worth the culinary journey.
Address: 300-302 St. Paul’s Rd, London N1 2LH, United Kingdom.
15. Evelyn’s Table
The restaurant is situated in the place of a beer cellar, and modern European dishes are served here. The beer cellar and its dimly lit, rich atmosphere will mesmerize your mind.
This Michelin-starred restaurant is hidden in the cellar of Blue Posts Pub. You will find the perfect culinary experience over here. The intimacy provided will make it an unforgettable first date. Recommended dishes include the Ike Jime Trout.
Address: 28 Rupert St, London W1D 6DJ, United Kingdom.
These restaurants have been carefully curated and are a must-visit at least once in your lifetime. London and the hunt for good places to eat are never-ending journeys. New eateries are opened daily, and each new place has a new flavour.
Last Updated on March 21, 2024 by Annanya Chakraborty
