The 9 Best Places to Eat in London
Forget any outdated jokes about food in the UK being bad - London has one of the world's most dynamic food scenes
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Heading to London and looking to embark on a foodie adventure? Then you've chosen the right thing to read, because here we're sharing a few of our favourite restaurants in London. Here at Plum Guide, we more than know our stuff when it comes to all things travel, so read on for the ultimate foodie adaventure in the famous English capital.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
Close up of a succulent steak on a plate
Want to sink your teeth into some of the most delectable steaks in London? Head straight to the famous Hawksmoor Seven Dials in Covent Garden to get your fix. Though this isn’t the original Hawksmoor (which you'll find in Shoreditch), we love the basement Covent Garden dining room of this London steakhouse. Meat lovers will find plenty of different cuts to fill them up on the menu. The sides are sensational, the cocktails inventive, and they have the best mac and cheese in town. Save some space for the divine dessert offerings (if you can).
Capital Letter, Plum Guide home in London
Hakkasan Hanway Place
The original of the Hakkasan restaurants, the Hanway Place branch first opened in 2001 and has been a firm favourite on the London dining scene since. Prepare to be instantly blown away by the dramatic decor by designer Christian Liaigre, which adds to the sophisticated (and, frankly, pretty sexy) atmosphere. The kitchen is open-plan, offering you a front row seat to the food preparation process. Head Chef Tong Chee Hee has worked with Hakkasan since the start, and has created a menu full of delectable dishes including Peking duck served with caviar, soft shell crab and succulent Wagyu beef. Who said the best places to eat in London were all about British cuisine?
Rapunzel, Plum Guide home in London
Roka Charlotte Street
Since its launch in 2004, Roka has quickly cemented its place as one of the best Japanese restaurants in London. Roka is the younger sibling of the hip but more expensive Zuma. The facade of the central Charlotte Street branch is entirely made of glass and allows passerbys a glimpse of the chefs at work. If you’re a fan of black cod, look no further. The ruby-red tuna sashimi is also worth a try for any sushi lover. Head to the Shochu Lounge in the basement to find the perfect spot for a buzzy pre - or post - dinner drink destination. The wine list is lengthy and impressive, and the cocktails are beautifully mixed and delicious.
Radio Ga Ga, Plum Guide home in London
Galvin at Windows
A small meal on a plate at a Michelin star restaurant
Selecting the best places to eat in London isn't only about the food (although, granted, that's a pretty important part). What's better than dining on exquisite French cuisine? How about dining on exquisite French cuisine with stunning 360-degree views over London? Galvin at Windows is a Michelin-starred dining experience on the 28th floor of the London Hilton on Park Lane. Every single table here has a breathtaking view overlooking some of London’s most iconic landmarks. Chef Chris Galvin and his team’s menu of modern French fare rightfully deserves its Michelin star. Service is, of course, exemplary and highly attentive from the moment you enter the venue. Try their scrumptious tasting menu to avoid food envy.
Forever Blowing Bubbles, Plum Guide home in London
Duck & Waffle
When it comes to 24-hour restaurants in London, Duck & Waffle is undoubtedly top of our list of places to visit. Not only can you enjoy some seriously late night dining at this East London restaurant, you can also take in spectacular views of the illuminated city from its location on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower. Getting the glass lift up here is an experience in itself. Other than the signature dish of confit duck leg, fried duck egg and maple syrup, the menu serves up a range of other seasonal British dishes. We also recommend Duck & Waffle for brunch if you want to soak in the views during the day.
Cheyne Row II, Plum Guide home in London
Skylon
Situated in the famous Royal Festival Hall in the Southbank Centre, Skylon offers impressive riverside views from its massive floor-to-ceiling windows, alongside a seasonal menu of contemporary and classic British cuisine. The proximity to the West End makes it a great choice for a pre-theatre dinner option with a view. The bar is always bustling as well, making it a great spot to gaze out onto the Thames with cocktails in hand.
Dishoom King’s Cross
A pile of lamp chops on a plate at a restaurant
London’s love affair with Indian cuisine entered a new season with the addition of Dishoom back in 2010. They now have a few branches due to their huge success, but we love the King’s Cross one, which is spread over three floors. Dishoom’s decor is styled on Iranian cafes in Bombay, and it's atmospheric to say the least. Now, let’s get to the food. The menu has been carefully curated to include classic Indian dishes and contemporary Bombay street food. The paneer tikka and lamb chops are a must try, but save space for the kulfi for dessert. Be prepared to queue at dinner time.
10 Greek Street
For an intimate dining experience in the heart of Soho, there’s no better place than 10 Greek Street. Indulge in an array of lovingly prepared small dishes in this cosy restaurant: if you struggle to decide what you want to eat, you’ll be glad to know the regularly updated menu offers just a handful of (delectable) dishes to choose from. 10 Greek Street doesn’t take bookings, but there are plenty of great bars nearby to keep you occupied while you wait for your table.
Padella
This institution right next to Borough Market will take your passion for pasta to another level. You’ll be able to gorge on delectable homemade pasta in all shapes and sizes. The cacio e pepe is a crowd favourite, but this is a spot worth multiple revisits if you’re a true pasta enthusiast. As is the case for many of these places, there’s bound to be a queue outside Padella on any given evening. But trust us when we say it’s worth the wait. Along with the original restaurant in London Bridge, there's a Padella in Shoreditch too. Because when the pasta is that good, one just isn't enough.
