The best late-night restaurants in London

Violet sits in the heart of Soho and stays lively well into the night, offering classic cocktails, a solid wine list, and delicious Georgian dishes. The bar draws on the story of its namesake, which gives the space a slightly old-world feel, helped along by low lighting and a soundtrack that suits late hours. Georgian dishes like khachapuri, khinkali and slow-cooked stews keep things tasty for anyone who wants proper food with their drinks. It is a great option for late-night eating and drinking in central Soho.

27 Old Compton Street, the younger sibling of venerated Italian dining institution 40 Dean Street, is the latest open pasta bar in Soho, meaning you can stop by after midnight on weekend and still eat your fill of freshly made pasta. The restaurant's old-school interior has all the makings of a vintage late-night haunt, and the food is served quickly and efficiently. In short, 27 Old Compton Street knows what its late-night clientele is after and delivers it in full.

Nothing hits the spot quite like a nice warm curry after a long evening of merrymaking. With its abundance of curry houses, Brick Lane aka the Curry Mile has become a prime destination for hungry punters late at night, and Preem is one of the best places they can end up at. Serving a wide and varied assortment of flavour-packed Indian dishes, this takeaway-ready restaurant will make sure you're ready for the journey home – or for carrying on the revelry til the morning.

Negronis? Check. An eclectic selection of pasta? Check. An ever-evolving wine menu? Check. These are just a few of the things you can expect to enjoy at Sager + Wilde, a restaurant and wine bar in the heart of Hackney and Bethnal Green. Sip on a selection of wines in a chilled and buzzy environment and chow down on slow-cooked rabbit ragu or a pasta dish of your choice.

Michelin-starred Chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias has brought both Spanish and Mexican flavours to his debut restaurant Decimo high above King's Cross. You can dine here until late, with the stylish venue boasting excellent views of the London skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. It's ideal for a post-drinks dinner, followed by post-dinner drinks.

Amazónico in London is the first international venture of restaurateurs Sandro Silva and Marta Seco, following the success of their original Madrid location. The striking restaurant features an immersive rainforest-inspired setting, aiming to transport diners to South America while offering a menu that blends Amazonian flavours with unexpected sushi twists. Alongside the unique culinary experience, there is live entertainment, including a house band and resident DJs, creating a vibrant atmosphere for guests. The restaurant is open late daily.

Most Turkish restaurants on Green Lanes are something to write home about, but Selale stands out as an award-winning gem. It nabbed the Best Value Kebab accolade at the British Kebab Awards and boasts an excellent menu of classic Turkish dishes. It also features a spacious dining area, making it the ideal spot for group gatherings and party bookings. Additionally,  you'll find a well-stocked bar featuring Turkish beers, spirits, and wines. Plus, it's open 'til late daily.

Open around the clock, Duck & Waffle is located 40 floors up in one of London's tallest buildings. You can dine 24 hours a day here, with a late-night menu kicking in from midnight. Although the selection changes throughout the year, you can expect to see things like duck mac 'n' cheese, spicy ox cheek doughnuts, and BBQ beans on toast.

Grab a slice of after-hours pizza at Voodoo Ray's pizza shops in Dalston, open seven days a week, with late-night slices every Friday and Saturday. They sell their pizzas in a huge 22-inch size, as well as 12-inch pies and by the oversized slice. The pizzas come with a range of delicious toppings, from classic pepperoni to more adventurous flavours like artichoke hearts and sun-blushed tomatoes.

This late-night Jamaican spot serves a mouth-watering menu of tasty Island bites, like tender jerk chicken and juicy dumplings. You can dance the night away and sip on refreshing cocktails before filling up on melt-in-your-mouth Jamaican cuisine served with love.

Satisfy those meat cravings late into the night at Meatliquor W1, just a stone's throw away from Oxford Circus station. There's live music and DJs performing throughout the week, as well as a bar serving top tipples well into the early hours of the morning at this vibrant spot.

If you're craving an after-dark wood-fired pizza then Cecconi's Pizza Bar is the place to be. This relaxed late-night restaurant in Soho serves the Italian classic with a variety of toppings, as well as a few snacks and desserts. Wash it all down with a late-night Aperol spritz or negroni, both of which are served on tap here.

It's basically a London rite of passage to try a bagel from Beigel Bake on Brick Lane, and really there's no excuse not to, seeing as they're open 24 hours a day. Opt for a classic like the salt-beef bagel with mustard and pickles or the lox and schmear to fill up, then grab one to take home for the morning as well.

Gökyüzü runs a number of homely eateries across the city, with several open until late, including the flagship Green Lanes branch. Authentic Turkish cuisine is what it's all about here. You can feast on Turkish pizzas to soak up the late-night drink or opt for something a little lighter, like a cold mezze platter with extra hummus.

Whatever time you're craving Nigerian cooking, Enish 24 has you covered. This lively 24-hour restaurant in Camberwell serves up classic West African food in an animated setting. Traditional recipes like snails, chicken wings, egusi, and yam porridge are all on the menu here, and takeaways are available too.

One of the best 24-hour restaurants in London, Polo Bar Well opposite Liverpool Street station is a traditional British café that has been around since the 1950s. The lively venue serves breakfast at any time, as well as other homemade dishes. During the night, a special street food menu is available too. This place also has a 24-hour alcohol license.

The VQ 24-hour restaurants in London serve alcohol around the clock, as well as any meal at any time, from breakfast and brunch to lunch and dinner. Each location is smart and sleek, and though the Bloomsbury venue has slightly reduced opening hours early in the week, it does the full 24 when it counts most.

There are numerous branches of The Sushi Co around London and most of them stay open late to satisfy your sushi cravings. These restaurants are popular for casual dining, with sleek interiors and a relaxed atmosphere. You can try a variety of sushi rolls and platters, as well as hot dishes, all prepared with quality ingredients. Try a Japanese beer to wash it down.

Bacchanalia stays open late every night and serves decadent Greco-Roman feasts in an inspiring setting. There's detail everywhere you look, creating an immersive dining experience. Ancient myths are retold through original artwork and antique sculptures. Sophisticated Mediterranean dishes are served at this one-of-a-kind venue.

Heliot Steak House is located within the iconic Hippodrome Casino in the heart of London and is celebrated for its exceptional cuts of meat. In fact, it was once voted the best steakhouse in London. This West End legend offers diners a unique experience, with views overlooking the Grand Casino floor. Heliot's late-night menu features elevated American steakhouse dishes perfect for a late-night bite or after-hours feast.