Welcome to a world of culinary delights! You’ll find more than just delicious food in this guide, we’ve included restaurants that are as much about the experience as the dishes.
These are restaurants that push boundaries, whether through their experimental cooking methods, or with their wild and unique interior design. They offer a refreshing escape from the ordinary, taking you on a journey of taste and style.
Unique Experiences, Delicious Food
The Frog Hoxton
Prepare for a bold fusion of British and Asian flavours at The Frog Hoxton, where Chef Adam Handling reigns supreme. The restaurant is committed to reducing food waste and offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options for everyone to enjoy. The lively atmosphere is further enhanced by the open kitchen, where you can watch the chefs work their magic, and the graffiti-adorned walls, reflecting the vibrant energy of its Shoreditch location.
Book a 7-course tasting menu with wine pairing and a celebratory glass of Adam Handling Sparkling for £120 per person.
Sake no Hana, St James’s
Step into a world of elegance at Sake no Hana, a sleek Japanese restaurant designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. The interior is inspired by Japan’s bamboo-filled forests, creating a minimalist and angular space that beautifully contrasts with the intricate Japanese dishes. At the bar, you can explore creative twists on classic cocktails, adding another layer to your experience.
Book a 7-course Hana menu with a glass of champagne for £65 per person.
Story, Bermondsey
Prepare to be surprised at Story, where chef Tom Sellers, previously at Noma and The French Laundry, presents a nostalgic yet innovative take on British cuisine. The open kitchen is a focal point, where strikingly visual courses are served in unique vessels. Sellers crafts menus based on your preferences, ensuring a truly personalized dining experience.
British Flavours, Unique Ambiance
Purnell’s, Birmingham
Nestled in a restored Victorian building, Purnell’s offers a unique blend of British flavours and culinary artistry. Chef-owner Glynn Purnell presents menus ranging from snack-style bites to elaborate tasting journeys, all with a distinct local identity, including the playful “Brummie Tapas.” The creative presentation experiments with textures and natural materials, showcasing the chef’s artistry in the open kitchen.
Two Lights, Shoreditch
Chase Lovecky, formerly of The Clove Club, brings American sharing-style dishes to the heart of Shoreditch at Two Lights. The bijou space features whitewashed walls, laminate-topped tables, and a window counter overlooking the bustling street. The wine list features a carefully curated selection of American, Australian and European bottles, complementing the dishes that highlight lesser-used ingredients.
Twelve, Thornton
Located next to one of Europe’s tallest working windmills, Twelve offers a unique contrast: classic British cuisine alongside edgy urban décor. The dining room is a blend of exposed girders, reclaimed wood, and bare brick, punctuated by graffiti artwork featuring icons like John Lennon and David Bowie.
Smoked Meats, Southern Hospitality
Smokestak, Shoreditch
Smokestak is a haven for barbecue lovers in East London. The open kitchen allows you to witness the magic of oak-smoking, while the space itself is moody and inviting, with distressed chunky-wood tables and communal benches. The star attractions are the brisket and ribs, expertly prepared and complemented by creative sides, a curated cocktail list, and comforting old-school desserts.
Plaquemine Lock, Islington
Transport yourself to the Deep South at Plaquemine Lock, situated on the edge of Regent’s Canal. The exterior might hint at a traditional pub with its hanging baskets and teal tiles, but inside you’ll find a vibrant space with sunshiny yellow walls and murals depicting the bayous of Louisiana. Alongside American beers and Louisiana-inspired cocktails, savor a menu of po-boy sandwiches, slow-roast meats, and fried chicken.
Bob Bob Ricard, Soho
Prepare for an opulent experience at Bob Bob Ricard, a luxurious spot in Soho. The highlight? The legendary “Press for Champagne” buttons found within plush booths, adding a touch of playful indulgence to the already opulent setting. This restaurant serves a diverse British menu, ranging from crowd-pleasing burgers to luxurious caviar and oysters. The design is equally extravagant, with gilded poles, glossy marble, and cobalt blue leather, reminiscent of the lavish Orient Express.
Enjoy your culinary adventure!
