The ultimate list of the best restaurants in London

When it comes to iconic London restaurants, few are as significant as the original St. John. Established in 1994 within a repurposed smokehouse, the beloved and enduring presence of St. John has solidified it as one of the top restaurants in London. Recognised for its pivotal role in revitalising appreciation for offal cuisine, it has held a Michelin star since 2009. Each visit to St. John promises to be a culinary highlight, as the London restaurant offers daily changing menus with an emphasis on British classics.

Michelin-starred Brat is an elegant establishment that takes inspiration from Basque culinary techniques and regularly features among the top restaurants in London, as well as the UK. The diverse menu features an abundance of fish and grilled dishes, accompanied by a varied wine list with a monthly spotlight on a specific wine. The Shoreditch flagship also operates a spin-off wood-fired restaurant, Brat x Climpson's Arch, next to London Fields.

Chuku's in Tottenham is more than just one of the nice places to eat in London – it's a social dining experience that builds community, and it was successfully put to the test when the owners had to crowdfund a large sum in a short time. The innovative menu at this popular London restaurant celebrates food being central to Nigerian social activity, and features a wide variety of authentic small plates that are great for sharing and chatting over. Combined with the vibrant art, friendly staff, and chill tunes, Chuku's will soon have you relaxed and content.

Padella, a pasta-focused spin-off of North London's Italian institution Trullo, has garnered a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional quality and excellent value. The contemporary Italian restaurant specialises in hand-rolled pasta, meticulously prepared with a range of sumptuous sauces and fillings. The Borough Market branch is walk-in only, so be prepared to queue, but the more recent and larger Shoreditch restaurant takes bookings as well. Both are among the best food places in London, and that's saying something, as the city is not shy on pasta offerings.

Whichever of Big Mamma Group's nice restaurants in London you end up at, you can be sure of two things. One, the decor will be unlike anything you've ever seen, with every nook and cranny carefully thought out for maximum impact, yet somehow still toeing the line between kitschy and tasteful. Two, the delicious food is equally indulgent, spanning the full spectrum of moreish Italian cuisine and capped off with each restaurant's signature dessert. Combine the two and it's no wonder these feasts for the senses are regarded as some of the best restaurants London has to offer.

Ever since the first Dishoom opened in Covent Garden in 2010, the group's place among the best restaurants in London has never been in doubt. Probably among the most recommended restaurants in London, the Bombay-inspired eateries draw in locals and out-of-towners alike with their polished yet cosy setting, lively atmosphere, and tasty Indian street food that's perfect for sharing. House specials such as the roti rolls and the black daal are the stuff of culinary legend and rank among some of the best food London can offer. We all have our restaurant favourites, but pretty much everyone who's ever tried it can agree on Dishoom.

Parked in a converted bike shed in Shoreditch, Rochelle Canteen offers a charming and intimate setting. One of the top London restaurants, the venue takes pride in its daily changing menu, showcasing seasonal dishes inspired by both contemporary and classic European cuisine, and only the highest-quality ingredients are used. The garden setting is fresh and revitalising, especially if you can nab a seat under the canopy on a pleasant sunny day,

At her debut solo restaurant in London, chef Adriana Cavita invites guests to visit her childhood, filling the table with an abundance of comforting and nostalgic classics. Mains such as the tantalising chicken in mole verde sauce or the whole sea bream cooked in banana leaves come with plenty of tortillas and rice, encouraging a shared dining experience. Cavita and its accompanying mezcal bar have taken the capital by storm, receiving rave restaurant reviews from all over.

The London branch of Neapolitan pizza chef Ciro Salva's signature 50 Kalò restaurant is a temple to the pizza gods, from the imposing red pizza oven in the back of the room to the marble columns holding up the high ceiling. Regularly winning accolades as one of the top pizzamakers in the entire world, Salvo has perfected the art of extremely hydrated pizza dough. Toppings include things like bufala, 'nduja, roasted ham, and fried aubergines, but even if you keep it simple with a classic margherita, this top restaurant is likely to serve you one of the best pizzas in your life.

Sweetings is a renowned British seafood restaurant with a rich history of over 130 years. Open exclusively for lunch, it offers a traditional bill of fare rather than a menu, showcasing fish as the star ingredient. Whether you're after lobster bisque, indulgent caviar, or expertly prepared fried, grilled, or poached fish, Sweetings has a variety of options to satisfy you. The homemade puddings at this no-frills establishment with white tablecloths and vintage paintings are also famously indulgent, and it's easy to understand why Sweetings is one of the best places to eat in London despite its limited opening times.

Is this the best place to eat in London? Tastes differ, so it's impossible to declare any one place the No. 1 London restaurant, but the mere fact that it's part of the conversation says a lot. Filling in a gap on Islington's pub scene, The Tamil Prince transformed what was formerly known as The Cuckoo into a sought-after casual dining establishment that highlights South Asian cuisine. The team behind one of the must-visit London hotspots honed their skills at the renowned Roti King and have put together a concise menu of mouth-watering Indian offerings such as onion bhaji, butter chicken masala, and crispy roti. Don't forget to try the cheeky house cocktail, either.

There's no need to go over the top for the best eats in London. Max Rocha's Café Cecilia is a stylishly simple establishment serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The sleek interiors and ever-changing seasonal menus are just the thing for those seeking a contemporary London dining experience with a touch of tradition. Guests can indulge in British breakfast fare such as toast with marmalade or flavourful kippers, or stop by later for the likes of lamb leg or pork and apricot terrine. Though British cuisine takes centre stage, the kitchen draws inspiration from all over the world.

Taking inspiration from both Morocco and Andalusia, The Barbary Next Door is a captivating haven nestled in the hard-to-find Neal's Yard in Covent Garden. The relaxed – and relaxing – restaurant and wine bar offers a culinary journey infused with enticing North African flavours and thrilling ingredients. The horseshoe bar boasts a carefully curated wine list, highlighting selections from Morocco, France, and Spain, with innovative cocktails such as a harissa Bloody Mary available as well. If you're in London on holiday, this is also one of the best restaurants in town when it comes to location and convenience.

When it comes to nice places to eat in London, The Petersham is always a safe choice. Located in the heart of London's Covent Garden, The Petersham provides a verdant setting adorned with plants, accompanied by an array of organic Italian delicacies. With a strong emphasis on the quality and sourcing of ingredients, the restaurant is committed to serving organic, ethically produced food, including light options such as asparagus risotto or cod with mussels, more comprehensive tasting menus, and even afternoon tea.

Across two floors, the Michelin-starred Sabor offers an overview of Spain's culinary diversity, including a vibrant counter-style eatery on the ground floor and a more refined, stylish setting upstairs. Downstairs, you can try an array of different tapas, such as piquillo croquetas and pan tomate, while the upstairs area focuses on Galician and Castilian wood-fired oven specialities. There's a separate bar for fine Spanish wines and tapas snacks downstairs as well, contributing to this being one of the must-visit restaurants in London.

Chef Ravinder Bhogal's name is familiar from cookbooks, talks, charity events, and all sorts of merchandise, but at the heart of his Asian fusion restaurant in London is a celebration of maternal figures and family recipes. The enticing menus blend traditional Asian cooking with contemporary European ingredients in delicious food such as tamarind glazed bacon or lobster moilee curry. Extensive vegetarian and vegan options are offered as well at this nice place to eat.

Few restaurants in town are as famous around the world as Darjeeling Express thanks its acclaimed chef Asma Khanhvaing been featured in Netflix's series “Chef's Table”, but that's not why this draws crowds. The all-female open kitchen cooks hearty, familial Indian food and street-inspired delicacies, perfect for sharing, socialising, feasting, reminiscing – the kind of food that comes with a hug for the soul. The restaurant is currently located at the top of Soho's Kingly Court, in a space decked out in earthy tones and natural textures.

Michelin-trained chef Chet Sharma's grandmothers (bibis) shaped his culinary identity, and he's honouring their gift at Bibi in Mayfair. The polished, dimly lit venue serves chaat street food plates and charcoal-grilled delicacies, using sustainably sourced ingredients from both the UK and India. One of the country's top restaurants serves an à la carte menu for lunch and a tasting menu for lunch and dinner, accompanied by wines and spirits from all over the world.

Sessions Arts Club is housed in an elegant Grade II listed building with a stripped-back decor and a laidback atmosphere. Encompassing a bar, a restaurant, and a performance space, the Club offers a unique dining experience based on and highlighting creativity and the collective. Serving some of the best food in London, the kitchen draws inspiration from around the world, making good use of ingredients such as 'nduja, quail, and white asparagus.

Bethnal Green's Marksman has been a part of the “London's best gastropub” conversation for years, especially since becoming the first pub in the capital to be named Michelin Pub of the Year. The buzzy local, regularly hailed as one of the best places to eat in London, serves a daily menu of British-inspired cuisine in a muted upstairs dining room, along with bar snacks such as the famed filled buns in the welcoming ground-floor bar area.

Kiln, a renowned London restaurant serving Thai food in a vibrant setting with an open kitchen, offers a sharing menu packed to the brim with an array of Thai classics. You can sample Northern-style Laap sausage, succulent slow-grilled red mullet, flavourful lamb and cumin skewers, and much more here, all without breaking the bank despite this being among the most popular restaurants in London.

Thanks to its fashionable, Scandi-style minimalism, attentive service, and ever-evolving menus, Lyle's in Shoreditch has garnered widespread recognition as one of the top local food places and earned a coveted Michelin star. With ingredients sourced from across the country, Lyle's captures the essence of contemporary British cuisine, serving an à la carte menu for lunch and tasting menus for dinner. Pair them with a sophisticated wine list for all-around enjoyment.

Uchi distinguishes itself from London's more opulent dining establishments by embracing a different, more understated charm. The unassuming Japanese eatery thrives on simplicity, with white curtains, gentle wooden accents, and slippers for patrons creating a serene ambiance. All the better for the exquisite plates of sushi to take centre stage, with a changing assortment of carefully sculpted morsels available for dinner and Sunday lunch. If you're looking for nice places to eat in London, this one has all the bases covered.

Rick Stein is one of the UK's most renowned seafood experts, having cooked for the likes of the Royal Family. His eponymous location in Richmond is a much more relaxed and accessible affair, however. Dine on the finest Cornish seafood for lunch and dinner, with breakfasts served on weekends as well, all while taking in the marvellous views of the Thames.

When it comes to good restaurants in London, Spring takes the “good” to heart – both as good food and as doing good. Set in the charming Somerset House arts centre, this great place to eat serves ever-evolving seasonal menus curated by head chef Skye Gyngell. Sustainability and environmentalism are at the forefront of Gyngell's work here, with the daily offerings celebrate the bounties of each season. You can order off an à la carte menu or go for a set lunch, but the real highlight is the innovative "Scratch" tasting menu. It's only served in the evening and ingeniously utilizes surplus and waste ingredients for a zero-waste dining experience.

The Hoxton hotel's much-lauded restaurant earned its place among the best restaurants in London by offering a creative fusion of vibrant Thai flavours and comforting American indulgence. The all-day menu features New-York-style bodega sandwiches sitting next to chicken 'n' roti waffles, Thai Cobb salad, and other creative combinations. Furnished with 70s-style patterned textiles and a neutral colour palette, Chet's has a retro, effortlessly cool vibe about it, along with cuisine you'll have a hard time finding elsewhere.

The Four Legs crew from the nearby pub, The Plimsoll, has transformed this old fish and chip shop into a Spanish-themed fish bar, retaining charming elements like the original tiling and Formica flooring. This relaxed spot offers Spanish seaside cuisine paired with a selection of beers, wines by the glass, and Spanish vermouth. There's only a little counter seating, but the food comes with oodles of authentic Spanish vibes.

Launched in 2023 at the London Fields location once home to Bright, Bambi is a trendy wine bar and restaurant where music plays a crucial role. Drop by during the day for a coffee and deli sandwiches, or come in the evening to savour enticing small plates such as arancini, along with natural wines and inventive cocktails. The venue boasts a modern design, an impressive sound system, and live DJ sets to maintain a vibrant atmosphere.

Clipstone is a popular bistro near Regent's Park, known for its relaxed atmosphere and homey interior, complemented by pavement tables for people-watching. It offers a set lunch and an à la carte menu featuring seasonal and sophisticated European dishes. The bistro also boasts an extensive wine selection with over 100 options, including a unique single bottle list.

The Roti King restaurants might be budget-friendly and humble, but they're some of the toughest spots to get into without a booking in the entire city, with wait times regularly hitting 45 minutes and more. If you do manage to get a table at Roti King, you'll be treated to some of the best food in London – comforting Malaysian cuisine, with the highlight being the warm rotis that melt in your mouth. They come stuffed with fillings such as cheese or chicken, or served alongside your choice of kari.

Amazing restaurants in London come in all shapes and sizes, and Mangal Ocakbasi is proof. Located just a few minutes away from its more refined and expensive spin-off, Mangal 2, this popular restaurant offers a traditional Turkish open charcoal grill menu featuring kebabs and a variety of mezze. The restaurant's ambiance and culinary offerings embrace simplicity, devoid of any unnecessary embellishments or pretensions, but have won it the praise of chefs such as Jamie Oliver, Sam Clark, and Yotam Ottolenghi. There's just something irresistible about that smoky charcoal flavour.

It might be unassuming, but trust us, it's one of the best places to eat in London. Xi'an Impression is part of a culinary trend that's been taking London by storm – street-style food from China's Xi'an province, heavy on the spiciness and full of flavours and textures you likely can't find at your local Chinese takeaway. The seemingly never-ending noodles, pulled by hand, are a definite highlight, but there are plenty of other intriguing options such as shredded bread in broth or Xi'an-style burgers to try out as well.

This family-run Punjabi restaurant has been an East London icon for decades, its instantly recognisable neon blue sign drawing patrons into a hectic, bustling world of South Asian deliciousness. It's easy to get overwhelmed by the options and the atmosphere, but if you're looking for comforting dishes, rich in spice and flavour, you can't really go wrong with anything. You can bring your own alcohol, or order one of the traditional lassis, and polish off a classic South Asian dessert to round things off, all without breaking the bank.

Crowds of people waiting in line or happily munching on steaming Cantonese buns are a regular sight at Bun House, arguably the best food place in Chinatown if you're after something quick, cheap, and satisfying. Really the only limit on how many of the fluffy treasures you can devour comes down to your stomach and your wallet, and with the affordable prices, the former will have to shoulder most of the responsibility. You can choose from different fillings, such as BBQ pork belly or curry chicken, and various other Cantonese small plates are available as well.

For affordable and incredibly flavourful Caribbean cuisine, Troy Bar in Old Street is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Not only does it offer delectable dishes such as plates of jerk chicken served with seasoned rice and peas, sweet plantain and creamy coleslaw, it also provides a vibrant atmosphere with open mic nights and live performances featuring jazz, blues, reggae, and more, making it one of the most interesting places to eat in London.

In a realm of private clubs, glamorous star-studded affairs, and heavily guarded royal quarters, getting a restaurant booking for Singburi, a modest Thai eatery in Leyton, may prove to be the most challenging of all. No website, cash only, sporadic phone availability, serving only dinner, and with a daily blackboard menu comprising the vast majority of its social media presence, Singburi is as hidden a gem as it gets. But the affordable and delicious Thai cuisine served here makes all the hassle worthwhile, and those who've tried it will gladly defend it as one of the best food places in London.

Having moved to Leytonstone after grinding it out in Wood Street Market in Walthamstow for years, Homies on Donkeys is now larger and better than ever before. The acclaimed taqueria has been winning praise from all over and built a dedicated following thanks to its imaginative fusion of authentic ingredients into a mouth-watering array of tacos, tacos, nothing but tacos. Cutlery is neither required nor provided, just sit down, take in the graffiti-adorned walls, and start stuffing your face to a bangin' hip hop soundtrack. Good food in London doesn't come much more enjoyable than this.

Good food places in London aren't hard to come by, but Etles Uyghur has drawn the attention of adventurous foodies by introducing the rarely seen cuisine of the Uyghur minority from Northwest China – must-try food you'll have a hard time finding at any of the other great restaurants in London. Soon recognised as one of London's top affordable restaurants by those in the know, the cosy Etles Uyghur is adorned with traditional instruments and tapestries. The menu features traditional delicacies such as hand-pulled noodles, delectable skewers, offal dishes, and other regional specialties, often infused with a spicy kick. Drinks are BYOB.

Miznon stands out as an exceptionally peculiar restaurant that maintains a light-hearted approach – its Comic Sans menu humorously mentions "slaughtering tomatoes" and "cauliflower's inner parts," accompanied by unconventional phrases adorning the walls. The culinary offerings are outstanding, however, with the renowned pitas fuelling Miznon's rise among the top-rated restaurants in London. Fillings range from crispy falafel to delicate rib-eye steak strips and a variety of Mediterranean-inspired delights, and the quirky setting and service adds to the memorable experience.

Among the most famous restaurants in London thanks to its celebrity owner, Ramsay's Chelsea flagship restaurant has held three Michelin stars for more than 20 years, a testament to its quality and dedication to serving the finest French cuisine. Currently helmed by chef Matt Abé, the menu at this top London restaurant still features signature Ramsay dishes such as lobster ravioli, along with beautifully presented French delicacies and accompanied by carefully curated wines. For the ultimate dining experience at one of the best restaurants in London – one of the best UK restaurants, really – you can book a tasting menu or the chef's table.

Having honed her skills at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, chef Clare Smyth launched her Notting Hill venture in 2017 and soon bagged three Michelin stars of her own, making Core part of the exclusive club of the world's best restaurants. The menu at this must-try London restaurant showcases the best artisanal, sustainable British produce, crafting beautiful food that is a delight on the eyes as well as the taste buds. The restaurant itself is light and elegant, setting the tone for one of the best dining experiences in London.

Located in the Grade II-listed Shoreditch Town Hall, this bright and stylish London restaurant offers a two-Michelin-starred culinary experience. Immerse yourself in the exquisite seasonal tasting menus showcasing contemporary British cuisine, available for both lunch and dinner. The Clove Club prides itself on catering to all dietary preferences, with a thoughtfully curated vegetarian selection. The gastronomic journey you'll embark on here is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Synonymous with elevated Chinese cuisine, chef Andrew Wong's flagship London restaurant offers a journey through the rich and varied regional cuisines of China. The menus at this extravagant two Michelin-starred eatery change regularly, offering fresh, seasonal blends of classic Chinese flavours, contemporary cooking techniques, and quality produce. Sharing is encouraged, and tasting menus are available as well. This is the place to eat for those who want a whole new outlook on Chinese food.

Ikoyi is one of the best places to eat in London, having forged a unique culinary style with the help of West African influences. The two-Michelin-starred dining destination showcases its commitment to sustainability, seasonality, and innovation through a tasting menu and a set lunch option, with an emphasis on meat and seafood. The contemporary restaurant is decorated with vibrant artwork. Private dining is available as well.

Many will point to this as the best restaurant in London, and it's a hard to argue when the chef in charge boasts more than 20 Michelin stars. Operating out of the opulent Dorchester hotel in Mayfair, culinary legend Alain Ducasse serves three-Michelin-starred modern haute cuisine, with both à la carte and seven-course tasting menus to choose from. Vegetarians are catered to as well at this exquisite fine dining establishment, and the delicious food is complemented by a constantly evolving wine list with more than 1,000 bottles.

Renowned as one of the top restaurants in London for decades, The River Café is a classic destination for those seeking exceptional Italian cuisine and picturesque riverside dining. With its ever-evolving menus, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional ingredients, this culinary gem has proudly earned a coveted Michelin star. Drawing in patrons with its genuine Mediterranean flavours, the restaurant offers a tantalizing array of dishes such as nettle tagliatelle or a whole wood-roasted pigeon, with the infamous Chocolate Nemesis cake for a truly indulgent finale.

A revolutionary take on fine dining, chef Alexis Gauthier's flagship in Soho is fully plant-based. Based on more than a quarter of a century of experience, Gauthier's ground-breaking tasting menus are suitable for everyone, specialising in seasonal, ethical food and modern French cooking. Retaining its original townhouse features, the restaurant features a crisp and clean dining area, including several spaces for private dining. Regardless of your feelings on vegan cuisine, this is undoubtedly on of the restaurants to try in London.

Exemplifying grandeur and opulence in its baroque style, The Ritz Restaurant, adorned with chandeliers, marble columns, and lavish golden accents, sets the stage for an extraordinary fine dining experience. Situated within one of the world's most magnificent venues, the five-star hotel's restaurant showcases the finest seasonal British ingredients, expertly crafted into traditional British and French dishes infused with gourmet flourishes. For added flair, dishes such as beef Wellington or crêpes Suzette are finished at your table.

Kol opened in 2020 and accolades soon followed, with the London restaurant receiving a Michelin star in 2022 and being named one of the world's best restaurants in 2023, ranking the highest of all the London restaurants at #23. The bold Mexican cuisine on offer at this great place to eat is the work of creative chef Santiago Lastra, who enhances familiar dishes and flavours with high-end ingredients such as caviar or wagyu, all in a stylish setting with a soothing atmosphere. The restaurant also boasts a stylish mezcal bar and an intimate private dining experience.

The flagship restaurant by one of the top chefs in the world, Tom Aikens, features a glitzy interior with plush seating and private spaces, making it a great choice for an exclusive dining experience. Though it's open for lunch as well, the extensive tasting menus make Muse one of the best places for dinner in London, taking patrons on a sophisticated culinary journey inspired by Aikens' memories, personal life, and career. Cementing its status as one of the best restaurants in the city, this top London restaurant received five prestigious AA Rosettes in 2023.

In the instantly recognisable Michelin House building, acclaimed chef Claude Bosi serves bold French cuisine in a historic Art Deco setting. The à la carte and tasting menus feature contemporary cooking with bold flavours, made with the best seasonal produce from France and Britain. Dishes such as the Bibendum egg or Bosi's double chocolate soufflé are the stuff of culinary legends, and the recommended wine pairings add to the experience.