Guide to restaurants where you can BYOB in London

Unassuming local eatery Xi’an Impression brings a fresh take on Chinese street food to the capital. You can bring your own alcohol to this compact and understated spot whilst you try intriguing regional dishes. Hand-pulled noodles are a top pick here, plus other dishes like shredded bread in broth.

Jai Krishna keeps it simple at its low-key restaurant, but it's a big hit with vegetarian and vegan foodies in North London. Enjoy authentic Indian flavours in a no-frills dining room, with affordable dishes including curries, paneer recipes, and traditional desserts. There's a BYOB policy subject to a small corkage fee.

Halal Restaurant is London’s oldest Indian restaurant, having been established in 1939. It’s a low-key corner restaurant in East London serving up tasty classic recipes. Start with samosas or bhajis before going for curry or biryani. Little extras like breads and chutneys are available too to complete your meal.

Little Georgia’s Hackney location has a BYOB policy. The cosy restaurant brings Londoners a genuine taste of Georgian food in a homey modern interior. These are comfort food favourites – if you love melting cheese then don’t miss the traditional khachapuri, fresh breads overflowing with oozing cheese. Otherwise you can sample dumplings and stews.

Steak eaters will appreciate Macellaio RC, a distinctive steakhouse with an Italian touch, as well as the nose-to-tail spin-off Osteria del Macellaio. The restaurants are contemporary, considered to be a butchery with tables added. The provenance of ingredients is a key priority, with meat adhering to exact specifications. There's an Italian wine list but you can BYOB for a corkage fee.

At Balboa you can try the distinctive tastes of Pacific Colombian cooking. The dining room is contemporary and comfortable with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Expect South American favourites like topped arepas, grilled chicken, and empanadas. Colombian soft drinks are sold here but feel free to bring your own alcohol.

West London's Alounak has been serving Persian cuisine since the 1990s. The dining room feels traditional, with exposed brick and rich decor. Traditional dishes like kebabs, stews, and changing daily specials are available, as well as desserts. The restaurant serves hot drinks and juices but you're also welcome to BYOB.

Opened in 1972, Tayyabs is a classic Punjabi restaurant in Whitechapel. It’s a large, noisy, and bustling setting that’s full of life. The restaurant doesn’t serve alcohol but you’re free to bring your own. What it does serve is flavoursome South Asian dishes like curries, tarka dhal, and traditional sweets and desserts.

It may be a little out of the way and is definitely classed as low-key, but that doesn’t stop Singburi from being highly in-demand. It’s a no-frills destination for Thai food where it’s cash only and BYOB. You’ll see handwritten chalkboard menus with typical dishes like curries, soup, and pork ribs.

Enjoy tropical flavours in North London at Guanabana, a Latin-Caribbean restaurant. There’s a lively atmosphere and a stripped-back, honest dining room. BYOB is available all week but corkage rates vary. The menu is eclectic, with jerk chicken, curries, and burgers. All of the food served here is halal-friendly and full of flavour.

Going out for a steak can be expensive but you can lower the cost by visiting Hawksmoor on a Monday and bringing your own alcohol. Recognised as one of the country’s leading steakhouses, each venue has its own unique character and aesthetic. Expect prime cuts of steak, seafood, and burgers.

Head to Mangal Ocakbasi for authentic Turkish cuisine cooked over a charcoal grill. It’s casual and there’s no corkage fee if you bring your own drinks. There are no frills here – the food is honest, flavourful, and served in generous portions. Kebabs are a big draw but vegetarian dishes are served too.

Sample sushi and Japanese food made with pan-Asian influences at Greenwich’s Zaibatsu. This low-key eatery is unpretentious and utilitarian. Whilst the setting is simple, the menu is packed with exciting flavours. There are small dishes like takoyaki and croquettes in addition to larger meals like sushi sets and noodles.

For a new take on Chinese cooking, sample Uyghur food at Etles. This snug restaurant is filled with traditional decor and artefacts for an authentic experience. On the menu, you'll find hand-pulled noodles, offal dishes, and regional recipes that come packed with plenty of spice - remember to buy some drinks beforehand.

At Noizé diners are encouraged to feel at ease, whether that means adapting a dish or bringing your favourite wine with you. This is French cuisine in a warm and rustic setting. The seasonal dishes on the menu combine bold flavours and elegant presentation. You can expect French cooking that doesn't intimidate.

Lahore Kebab House is a Whitechapel stalwart. This straightforward and affordable Pakistani grill house comes without bells and whistles, but it serves affordable and in-demand classic dishes. Go for the succulent lamb chops, try an aromatic curry, or the mixed grill when you want to sample a bit of everything.

At Patogh in Marylebone you can eat unfussy Persian food in a cosy and compact environment. Only a few tables are available, so snag one to try out big and fluffy flatbreads and indulgent kebabs. This place is unashamedly old-school, and you’re welcome to bring your own alcohol.

Lively Turkish restaurant Fez Mangal is a casual venue, decked out with traditional lamps for an evocative feel. Chargrilled meat and fish dishes, prepared using fresh ingredients, are what really command attention here. There are countless kebabs to choose from, as well as pides and vegetarian dishes.

Roti King’s restaurants are already the king of budget eats in London, but you can save even more if you BYOB. These are low-key places where you often have to queue for a table. Expect fluffy and comforting rotis loaded with fillings like cheese or chicken. Other classic Malaysian options are served too.

Parkside restaurant Minnow has a romantic Parisian atmosphere and a flower-laden terrace. The menu features light and fresh dishes with European influences, as well as a Sunday roast. If you’re coming for a roast you’re welcome to BYOB, but on other days you can choose from cocktails, beer, and house wine.

The speciality at BunBunBun is bun cha, a classic dish from Vietnam of rice noodles and salad topped off with grilled pork or other tempting ingredients. There are flavoursome varieties to cater to every preference, or you can instead opt for a generously-stuffed crusty banh mi baguette. BYOB is welcomed here.

Based in Peckham, Yada's Green Kitchen has a low-key approach and a cool vibe. This family-run restaurant specialises in Kurdish cuisine, serving tempting food in a vibrant and casual setting. Try hummus, kebabs, dumplings, and stews, or go for lighter sandwiches and wraps. You're welcome to bring your own booze.

At Bintang you can try a unique Filipino and pan-Asian fusion cuisine. You'll find a quirky restaurant with prints on the walls and a colourful garden terrace. Food here is halal and includes choices like chicken wings, fried rice, and noodles. You can order soft drinks and bubble tea or BYOB.

The blue facade of Thai Corner Café is colourful and hard to miss. This family-run restaurant serves classic Thai dishes in a cosy and compact neighbourhood setting with a BYO policy. The menu is varied, with favourites like prawn toast, chicken satay, pad Thai or other noodle dishes, and curries.

Vietnamese restaurant Mien Tay has several locations and in Shoreditch and Fulham you're welcome to bring your own alcohol. This casual eatery has an unfussy interior and serves classic dishes like curries cooked in a traditional clay pot, along with pho, salads, and stir-fry dishes. There are plenty of vegetarian options.

Check out Ariana II to discover the flavours of Afghanistan in a rich red dining room. This family-run eatery serves warming curries, pastries, and kebabs, and has a branch in Manhattan as well as the restaurant in Kilburn. The space is full of colour and character and you’re free to bring your own drinks.

Visit Kaosarn for authentic Thai food in a friendly family-run eatery. Expect affordable classic recipes like massaman curry and pad Thai served in a bright contemporary setting. Whilst the food is already fairly-priced, the BYOB policy means it’s a great option if you want a delicious restaurant meal without breaking the bank.

Enjoy Thai cuisine in a setting that’s full of character at Poppy’s Thai. You’ll see somewhat curious decor that’s full of interesting ornaments and unusual features, as well as tempting food. This really is an east meets west situation, with English breakfasts and afternoon tea served alongside classic recipes from Thailand.

When you want classic British grub, Masters Superfish is a worthy option. This is a traditional chip shop and restaurant that's comfortable and authentic. You can bring your own alcohol with no corkage fee. The menu is understandably heavy on fish, with fried and grilled options, plus burgers, chicken, and kids' food.

Enjoy a low-cost meal at Indian Veg, a vegetarian buffet restaurant that’s been open since 1985. The space is quirky and decorated with pro-vegetarian slogans. The all-you-can-eat offering of over 30 dishes like curries, salads, and chutneys is already affordably-priced, but you can bring your own alcohol to cut costs even further.

Make a Michelin-starred meal affordable by heading to Chez Bruce and bringing your own bottle. Despite its top credentials, the restaurant has an inviting laid-back, local feel. This is French haute cuisine but with simplicity at heart. You certainly can’t eat here without sampling its famous cheeseboard, so choose your wine wisely!

Instantly recognisable thanks to its bright purple exterior, Anima e Cuore is a cosy and vibrant Italian eatery. Fresh juices are available but you’ll have to bring your own alcohol. There’s a varied menu of authentic flavours – topped breads, freshly-prepared pasta, and panouzzo sandwiches, as well as daily-changing sorbet and gelato options.

La Trompette comes from the same team behind Michelin-starred restaurant Chez Bruce. This bright and contemporary restaurant serves an à la carte menu with international influences. Every dish is prepared with seasonal and sustainable ingredients. There’s a considerable wine list but you’re also free to bring in your own favourite bottle.

Ali Baba has been serving Egyptian dishes in Marylebone since 1979. This is a family-run restaurant in a simple setting with an intimate feel. Soup, sandwiches, and mezze dishes are available if you fancy a lighter bite, or go all-in with stews, kebabs, or couscous. Desserts and Arabic coffee are available.

Everyone can enjoy a burger at Band of Burgers, whether you're a meat-eater or not. Two of the chain's restaurants have a BYOB policy. They're vibrant and contemporary spaces serving indulgent street food - go for a vegan or vegetarian burger, something with chicken, or one made from either wagyu or Angus beef.

Enjoy a Michelin-starred meal in a comfy neighbourhood setting at Kitchen W8. The soft and delicate decor is the ideal match for the elegant and seasonal dishes on the menu. Several menus are available, including tasting and themed options. There's a lengthy global wine list but you can bring your own too.

Sample Ethiopian cooking in Kingsland Road at Andu Ethiopian Vegan Café. This humble eatery does a straightforward menu of classic vegan-friendly dishes served with either rice or traditional bread. The offering is intentionally simple but packed full of heady flavour, and you can bring in your own alcohol to complement those spices.

Maries Café serves food that satisfies at any time of day in an unpretentious setting. When you want a filling breakfast, head here for a proper fry-up. Later in the day, there are authentic Thai recipes like tom yum soup and curries. Its casual, friendly nature makes it popular with locals and visitors.

At Tagine you can sample Moroccan and North African food without leaving South London. Filled with colourful and atmospheric lanterns and Mediterranean decor, it’s the ideal backdrop for trying these classic recipes, including grilled meat, mezze, and, of course, plenty of tagine options. Private events are welcome here as well.

Little Vietnam might be an understated place but it still attracts a bustling crowd of diners. This Wimbledon restaurant has a cosy feel and simple interior. It serves classic Vietnamese dishes like pho, crepes, spring or summer rolls, and stir fries. Soft drinks are available but you can bring in alcohol.

Set in a railway arch, Hanar has an intimate and romantic atmosphere. It's a comfortable and contemporary setting for Kurdish cooking and shisha. You can sample mouthwatering recipes like shawarma, stews, and platters of bites to share. You're free to bring your own alcohol at this sought-after eatery in Peckham.

Legendary eatery St. John has been wowing Londoners since 1994 and is credited with the revival of interest in offal dishes. Menus change daily but feature classic British recipes like Welsh rarebit and faggots and mash. There’s a predominantly French wine list but you’re also welcome to BYOB for a corkage fee.

Enjoy a sophisticated meal in a timeless setting at The Colony Grill Room, part of high-end hotel The Beaumont. Food is served here all day and private dining is also available. Expect luxurious dishes like oysters, caviar, and steaks, served in a space full of old-world glamour. There's a well-selected wine list but on Mondays you can bring your own for no corkage fee.

Enjoy dishes from Pakistan and South Asia at Miran Masala. The restaurant has warm and attentive service in a simple dining room with a distinctive tiled floor. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are served including paneer, tikka masala, and plenty of different curries. Traditional lassi and other soft drinks are available.

Vibrant restaurant Needoo Grill serves Punjabi classics with a lively Bollywood soundtrack. The restaurant is colourful and spacious with a BYOB policy. On the menu you’ll find both vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices, from pakoras and aloo gobi to fish masala and chicken tikka, all prepared with quality ingredients and authentic spices.

In the Marble Arch area you'll find Colbeh, a cosy Persian restaurant with a warm atmosphere. The dining room is understated and the menu features plenty of classic recipes. Try specially-prepared dishes like hummus, salads, and Persian bread, plus stews, kebabs, grilled fish, and traditional desserts. BYOB is welcome here.

If you're looking for a relaxed and family-friendly Italian restaurant, try Pappa Ciccia. This is a family-run business that welcomes kids, large groups, and lets you BYOB. You can expect generous portions of favourite recipes - pizza, pasta, salads, antipasti, and ciabatta and panini sandwiches are all on the menu.

The Ledbury is an award-winning and sought-after restaurant with two Michelin stars. Serving multiple course tasting menus that change regularly, the cuisine here celebrates the best of British produce. Despite its credentials it's a laid-back spot, with no dress code and BYOB being welcomed, subject to a corkage fee.

Enjoy authentic Korean food in Holloway Road at Ssäm. This compact local spot has a casual atmosphere. Soft drinks are sold but you can bring your own alcohol. On the menu you'll find traditional recipes like bibimbap, jjigae, and fried chicken. Vegetarian options are also available.

Bengali Spice is an Indian and Bangladeshi restaurant that specialises in classic dishes such as curries, tandoori, and biryanis, as well as unique Bengal specials. The skilled chefs expertly blend and balance spices to create flavourful dishes. The staff here are dedicated to providing a welcoming and friendly environment. The restaurant offers a BYOB policy at no extra cost and dishes are available for takeaway too.

Neighbourhood restaurant Franks Canteen may seem humble at first but it's serving up award-winning wine and food. The seasonal menu of global dishes changes often, with food served all day from breakfast til dinner. This busy contemporary eatery serves alcohol but on Wednesday evenings you can BYO for no corkage fee to pair with plates like ham hock terrine and crab pasta.

Moorish Lounge serves mocktails and hot and soft drinks but if you want to drink alcohol you're free to BYOB. This vibrant restaurant has rich and evocative decor and is fab for any occasion, including big parties and celebrations. Choose the set menu or à la carte options, with dishes like tagine, bastilla, couscous, and grilled meat. Kids are welcome too.

Head to Leyton for Burnt, an easy-going barbecue spot in a railway arch. This relaxed venue doesn't take reservations, has a BYOB policy, and offers casual counter service. Indulge in succulent burgers, sandwiches, and cuts of meat, all of which are halal. This spot does veggie options and side orders too.

Located in Camberwell, Nandine is celebrated for its mastery of Kurdish cuisine. While the menu boasts a variety of traditional dishes such as borek pastries, mezze, and kebabs, the spotlight shines on its distinctive lentil-based falafel, which can be enjoyed in burger form, a toasted wrap, or as part of a mezze spread. Enjoy all this alongside your BYOB choice of drink.

Addis Vegan Kitchen offers affordable Ethiopian meals. This cosy restaurant is brimming with traditional decor and serves classic dishes that are totally plant-based. Diners can choose a specific dish or enjoy a combination platter. Food here is affordable but a meal out is even more budget-friendly because this restaurant has a BYOB policy.

Visit Sushi Shimai and you can enjoy an unlimited buffet of sushi and Japanese favourites, as well as bring your own alcohol subject to a corkage fee. If you're looking for a restaurant that offers great value for money, this one is definitely an option. Dishes include sushi rolls, tempura, and salads, plus plenty of veggie choices. It's a cosy and friendly local venue.