Finding the best restaurants in London is a delightful, yet daunting task. With a plethora of established eateries and exciting new chefs gracing the city’s culinary landscape, you’re guaranteed to find a wide array of dining experiences, no matter your location.
From the classic curry houses of Brick Lane to the elegant brasseries of Soho and the dim sum havens of Chinatown, London offers a captivating range of culinary experiences. You’ll be spoilt for choice with charming Italian neighborhood restaurants like Ida in Queen’s Park, Panella in Notting Hill, and Ciao Bella in Bloomsbury. And don’t forget the vibrant Hackney small plates spots, or the food markets and arcades like Borough, Spitalfields, Portobello, and Kingly Court. It’s enough to make anyone feel overwhelmed, so to help you navigate this culinary wonderland, we’ve curated a list of the 50 best restaurants in London, compiled by House & Garden’s food editor Blanche Vaughan and our digital team.
The Tastemakers: What Makes a Top Restaurant?
Our team of discerning food enthusiasts has rigorously tested each establishment, prioritizing not only delicious food but also atmosphere, service, wine list, and overall experience. Design plays a crucial role, too, and the new Café Petiole in Somerset House serves as a prime example of how exquisite food and captivating design can come together seamlessly.
A Dynamic Landscape: Ever-Changing Delights
Like the dynamic culinary scene it reflects, our list is constantly evolving, incorporating new openings that instantly catch our attention. This August 2024, London is buzzing with exciting new additions.
Tollington’s, a Spanish seafood bar in Finsbury Park by the acclaimed minds behind Four Legs, continues to be incredibly popular. Arlington’s, the latest iteration of the renowned Le Caprice, remains a hot spot, and for those seeking a taste of Jeremy King’s culinary vision, The Park, a “new world grand café,” has opened its doors in Bayswater.
Spice Up Your Life: The Rise of Mexican Cuisine
As a team, we’ve been captivated by the blossoming Mexican food scene in London. For a glamorous night with an incredible aesthetic and guaranteed delicious food, we wholeheartedly recommend Decimo. Kol is also a must-try, deserving every bit of its hype. For a quick and satisfying bite, CDMX in Soho, which opened its doors in June, is a great choice. And despite its unassuming location in Nag’s Head Market, Islington, Proper Tacos delivers a truly spiritual flavor experience.
Taste Buds and Visual Delights: A Culinary Symphony
In our recent article on “Eating Your Way Through London,” two of our bona fide food enthusiasts highly recommended the classic Café Deco, so we’ll be paying them a visit soon. Speaking of aesthetically pleasing food, we’re eagerly awaiting the release of the highly anticipated recipe book from Café Cecilia, due out in mid-September.
Whether you’re seeking an elaborate tasting menu, a quick bite, or a sharing plate, this list has something for everyone. Enjoy your culinary journey through London’s best restaurants!
Beyond the Plate: Exploring London’s Culinary Delights
Looking for something different? Indulge in one of the city’s exquisite afternoon teas or consult our list of the best brunches in London for a long and leisurely breakfast. When the weather is inviting, explore our list of outdoor restaurants for a delightful meal in well-curated surroundings.
The 50 Best Restaurants in London: A Culinary Adventure Awaits!
