Food is almost always at the forefront of my mind, and I can’t relate to people who manage to forget to eat. With these credentials, here are some of my favourite places to eat in London. Our city is a foodie’s dream, and with something for everyone, there’s no excuse to not sample as many delights as possible. Take advantage of offers on BookATable and Groupon, and no matter your budget, you can guarantee to afford an array of mouthwatering treats. In this post, I’ll be giving you a list of my favourite fancy restaurants. Check out the mid-range and street food lists too!
10. Hutong at The Shard
Set high above London, this restaurant’s selling point is its level thirty-three location, and it certainly raises its prices to match the elevation. Whilst the stunning London vista might be impressive, the enticing menu can occasionally fall short of delivering quality worthy of the price. Having said that, their dim-sum is the best I’ve ever tasted.
9. German Gymnasium
Just across from King’s Cross Station is the beautiful Grade II listed German Gymnasium. Serving European dishes, they have a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu alongside their main a la carte dishes, offering something for everyone. As well as the food, the decor is incredible, and is well worth the journey across London.
8. Coq D’Argent
Set amongst the skyline of London, Coq D’Argent offers fine French food in an atmospheric rooftop restaurant, terrace and garden. Whilst the food is mouthwateringly sumptuous, the service equals the standard, ensuring a meal to remember. Offering a vegan tasting menu alongside the usual vegetarian, fish and meat options, Coq D’Argent is suitable for all.
7. Bateaux London
Dinner cruise? Yes please! Gliding along the Thames for two hours and forty-five minutes, whilst enjoying a five course meal and being entertained by live musicians is a perfect way to dine. The intimate setting is illuminated by the lights of London through the glass walls and ceiling, creating the perfect atmosphere for a post-meal slow dance. Bateaux London is an ideal choice for date night.
6. Rick Stein
The seafood diet is my favourite – I seafood and I eat it! Puns aside, you must visit this local restaurant if you’re a seafood fan. Located on the border of Mortlake and Barnes, Rick Stein offers a menu of fresh, fine quality seafood, with tables flanking a picturesque portion of the River Thames.
5. Celeste
Boasting a well-deserved Michelin star, Celeste is the Lanesborough Hotel’s beautiful restaurant. Justifiably pricey, the food at Celeste is some of the best that London has to offer, with incredible flavour and ingenious creations. Bookatable occasionally promotes cheaper offers for this restaurant so keep an eye out on there, particularly during London Restaurant Festival in October.
4. The Gate
This strictly vegetarian and vegan restaurant offers cruelty and guilt-free fine dining at a few locations across London. Hammersmith is their nearest branch to Roehampton, and is tucked away on the back streets, up a flight of stairs. Herbivore or otherwise, I can guarantee that the flavours will be delicious, and that you definitely will not miss meat. An absolute gem.
3. Bob Bob Ricard
When a restaurant has ‘Press for Champagne’ buttons at each table, you know you’ve hit the jackpot. An exquisite example of English and Russian fusion, your experience will be complimented by incredible attention to detail and the most attentive staff. All of the food is great, but I particularly recommend any of their lobster dishes. For a slightly cheaper deal, book for lunch instead of dinner.
2. Oxo
With stunning views, exquisite food and exceptional service, Oxo is one of my all-time favourite restaurants. After you’ve finished your meal, pop into the adjoining bar for an after-dinner drink, to make the very most of the impressive view. Oxo Brasserie is also available for a cheaper option, but see if you can find a Bookatable deal for Oxo Restaurant – it’s so worth it.
1. Champor Champor
For a dining experience like no other, I’d highly recommend the lesser-known Champor Champor, and if you can, book the mezzanine table – a private table for two set above the main restaurant, accessible only by ladder. Inside, the decoration and ambience is second-to-none, and the Thai-Malay food is truly incredible. This is lot cheaper and a very different vibe to the rest on this list; if you visit one fancy restaurant this year, choose Champor Champor.