London’s restaurant scene is a competitive one, especially when it comes to securing a coveted table at some of the city’s most sought-after eateries. But fear not, dear food enthusiast, because with a little know-how and a dash of persistence, you can transform from a table-less tourist to a dining connoisseur in no time!
The Power of Persistence: Strategies for Booking a Table
It’s no secret that London’s top restaurants have waiting lists longer than the queue for the Tower of London! But don’t despair, there are strategies to navigate the dining scene and land that coveted table.
- The Devonshire: This charming pub-restaurant is a London institution and a hot spot for foodies. Reservations open every Thursday at 10.30 am for tables within the next three weeks, so set your alarms! If you can’t snag a booking, consider becoming a regular by grabbing a pint and some bar snacks. The Devonshire is known for its warm hospitality, especially towards regulars, and they often have last-minute cancellations, so try your luck with a walk-in – first thing at lunch or after 8.30 pm have proven successful in the past. Follow landlord Oisín Rogers on Instagram (@mcmoop) as he sometimes announces ad-hoc cancellations on his stories.
- Mountain in Soho: This Michelin-accredited restaurant is the brainchild of Tomos Parry, the mastermind behind the equally popular Brat. While bookings are taken 60 days in advance, you can secure a coveted two-top at the comfortable dining counter for walk-ins. Tables for four tend to have better availability, so throw your name on the waitlist and check back a few days before your desired date.
- The Arlington: This reborn gem is a treasure trove of culinary delights, making it a highly sought-after destination. King, the master maître d’, is a legend in the hospitality world and knows the art of accommodating guests. Introduce yourself and make yourself known – a quick drink at the counter is a great way to do so. You’ll soon get to know general manager Anke Agtha and bar manager Vitek Melichar. This isn’t about currying favor, but showing your genuine interest, which is valued by restaurants. Booking a table for four online can open doors to earlier prime time slots than bookings for two.
- Dover: One of the hardest-to-book restaurants in London, Dover has earned its reputation as a dining destination. Even so-called “shoulder tables” are coveted and nearly impossible to snag. The secret? Bookings open three weeks in advance online so it’s a race against time. Alternatively, consider booking the monthly Sunday Lunch Club, which offers exceptional value for money at £85 for “all you can eat”. These monthly events are a fantastic way to experience Dover’s charm without the reservation frenzy. If an evening meal is a must, try your luck with a walk-in earlier in the week and enjoy the bar snacks menu featuring mini hot dogs, lobster rolls, and crispy potato with caviar.
The Sushi Scene: Brixton’s Sushi Counter
Brixton’s sushi counter is a haven for sushi lovers, and securing a seat at this popular spot is no walk in the park. The “season” (reservations for the next three months) opens on Resy only four times a year, resulting in a feeding frenzy for sushi enthusiasts. While it’s worth trying your luck on the drop day, regularly checking Resy for cancellations and following the restaurant on Instagram is a better bet. Sushi master Chris Restrepo often posts last-minute cancellations on his Instagram stories, giving you a chance to snag a coveted seat. These cancellations are often for single seats, so it might not work for everyone, but it’s worth the effort.
London’s Classic: Scott’s
Scott’s, a London institution since 1851, has been a hot spot for celebrities and socialites. Nabbing a table to rub shoulders with the great and the good isn’t easy, so head for the bar counter instead. This sumptuous, comfortable bar counter offers the full à la carte menu and is bookable, with a few spots reserved for walk-ins. For standard reservations, book a month or so in advance and remember, meeting the maître d’ is always a good idea.
London’s restaurant scene is a vibrant and dynamic world, full of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Don’t let the fear of a long waiting list deter you from experiencing the city’s best restaurants. With a little patience, persistence, and a willingness to try new things, you can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.
