Best Restaurants in London

London is vast and vibrant, with so many avenues to take for a completely different experience. London’s restaurants are definitely no different. Whichever cuisine takes your fancy, London has a restaurant that will take your breath away.

Now that London is fully back in business after two years of uncertainty, the city is bustling with commuters and tourists ready for a great dining experience. The future is looking very bright for London’s fine dining restaurants, as there is a surge of multiculturalism. If you’re a foodie, there is nowhere better to bag some Michelin stars and a cultured meal than London.

Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester

One of just five London restaurants with three Michelin stars, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester has long been regarded as the city’s finest dining destination. The restaurant offers an imaginative take on contemporary French cuisine in modern and effortlessly brings elegant décor as well. Restaurant goers have quoted the meals and experience as faultless. 

Hélène Darroze at The Connaught

This three-Michelin-starred restaurant showcases brilliantly tailored menus artfully created by Hélène Darroze. Every menu is a reflection of your personal tastes, as the chefs transform your selected ingredients sourced from the farmers into original works of culinary art. The menu is centred around classic French cuisine, with hints of British flavours. This is truly a marvellous delicately handcrafted dining experience that can not be missed out on.

Da Terra

The Brazilian-inspired Da Terra has made culinary waves since it opened in 2019. Head chef, and co-owner Rafael Cagali, who has experienced several Michelin star restaurants has acquired his first star within 9 months of opening Da Terra and later got his second star.

As a result, this restaurant has turned into the latest hotspot. You may be left waiting weeks to get a table in front of Cagali’s open kitchen, so make sure you stick to your booking. Da Terra is a tasting menu-only restaurant, offering an 11-course menu. As much as all the other dishes are fabulous, it is the Moqueca (Brazilian fish stew) that will take your breath away.

Trivet

Trivet is deconstructing fine dining in style. There is no tasting menu, only a la carte. This restaurant prides itself on hearty portions of perfectly-prepared high-quality ingredients. Both founders and chefs, Jonny Lake and Isa Bal, thought about how food and drink work together.

The wine list itself is set out chronologically, following the historic beginnings of wine to present day. There are over 350 wines from classic producing countries such as Italy and France. You’ll be sure to enjoy your time at Trivet.

Lecture Room & Library at Sketch

We find ourselves often revisiting Sketch in our suggestions when visiting London, and with good reason! It is glamorous, chic and trendy. Diners can choose between a seven-course tasting menu or a full a la carte menu. There is also a vast wine list containing some expensive vintages on offer.

An added bonus to the restaurant for some of you will be just how Instagrammable it is. The Lecture Room & Library serves you haute-cuisine by chef Pierre Gagnaire in a plush setting of ivory leather walls, ornate plasterwork ceilings, and rich furnishings. If this isn’t a star studded fine dining experience then I don’t know what is. 

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay

Combining contemporary elegance, an intimate atmosphere and unparalleled service, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay is a must for the culinary connoisseur. This restaurant has continuously wowed its diners with its constant quality control.

The menu prides itself on its flavour combinations, and finely sourced ingredients. As notorious as Gordon Ramsay is on television for causing hell, his restaurant delivers heaven on a plate.

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal was one of the most anticipated openings, and has since lived up to his expectations. Paying homage to historical British cooking, the menu reclaims traditional dishes, whilst also reinventing them for the modern day.

The menu lists dishes with the year they were first cooked, and Heston’s wit is on top form creating himself a trademark and personality in the culinary world.

Core by Clare Smyth

Previously being the head chef at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, Clare Smyth struck out on her own and has since established her own household name. The vibe at Core is different to what you might expect; Smyth calls it “casual luxury”, taking humble ingredients like a carrot and flipping it on its head to create sustainable haute cuisine.

La Dame de Pic

La Dame de Pic is the work of internationally acclaimed chef Anne-Sophie Pic. Offering a menu that flicks between British and French cuisine, the majority of the ingredients are British produce. Merging both culinary cultures successfully is what makes this restaurant widely regarded in the restaurant world.

Hide

This restaurant's success is due to a number of factors, including its extensive and incredible wine list, beautiful Instagram-worthy interiors and the ingenious food. Hide’s menu often changes but the signature dish is the Nest Egg, an eggshell filled with egg yolk, smoked butter, toasted mushrooms and cream. An inventive creation worthy of its reputation.

The Ritz

As much as The Ritz is the epitome of old-school luxury, its restaurant continues to deliver innovative and imaginative haute cuisine. Head chef Williams is very passionate about British produce and truly champions this in his seven course Epicurean menu.

It takes diners on a journey around the British Isles, from the Cornish moors to the Scottish Highlands. The service also stands out to the highest standards, adhering to its traditional values. The Ritz is a staple of British culture, dining here will feel like dining in the grand history itself.

The Ledbury

Chef Brett Graham’s innovative cooking offers diners an a la carte menu from a spectacular array of expertly prepared dishes or if they are feeling bold they can experiment with an eight-course tasting menu. 

Like what you see? Want help organising a trip to London with style, and with a special touch dedicated specifically to you? Please do not hesitate to get in touch. Let us relieve you of all the stress so you can sit back, and relax. We are here to help 24/7.

Edited by Thomas Bracken

The 10 Most Instagrammable Places in London

London is an incredibly photogenic and a very Instagrammable city. There is an infinite number of floral covered cafés, colourful restaurants, and rustic and authentic streets. You’ll be sure to turn a corner and be able to capture that pic. It’s no wonder why the bloggers, influencers and basically anyone with an Instagram feed can look like a superstar. 

Many of these shops adapt their décor for the seasons making them ever-changing and stunning that attracts anyone and everyone.

Peggy Porschen 

The Peggy Porschen café is notoriously known for their pink exteriors and floral decorations that shot to fame due to social media. With such a unique layout and vibe, expect to wait in line to eat or take your photo. This place is definitely a great place to have brunch, a coffee or a cake, but it’s even better when you’ve captured your photo to go along with it.

Coppa Club

Coppa Club is that place to eat, drink, and unwind after a long week. With igloos right on the River Thames, offering views of the Shard and Tower Bridge. The igloos seat around 10 people, making it a great date night with your friends or family. It truly is a beautiful place in the day and at night, so be sure to book in advance to get a spot because it’s hands down one of London’s hotspots. 

Neal’s Yard

Neal’s Yard is one of London’s hidden gems that many people are actually not aware about. You’ll pass cobblestone streets to get there, reminiscent of Harry Potter, and then you’ll find colourfully painted houses and small restaurants. This place gets packed quickly with tourists and locals, so I’d advise to gear down there early. I guess grab your pic and go!

Portobello Road

If you haven’t seen Notting Hill’s colourful houses on an Instagram feed then you don’t know London. Portobello Road is the road where you will find these beautiful shades of pink, teal, light blue houses on the main road. It’s not just Balamory that has colourful houses. Notting Hill is truly an iconic place, not only for their carnival but they’re beautiful homes. 

Keep in mind that these are people's homes so be as respectful as possible, and please don’t disturb their peace just for some clout..

Sky Garden

High up above London, sits the building known as the Walkie Talkie due to its unique shape. The skyscraper features a top-floor restaurant, tropical garden and sweeping views of the entire city. Here you can experience London from a spectacular viewpoint and capture the most insane pictures. Access to the Sky Garden is free of charge but spaces are limited so be quick!

Sketch

Sketch in Mayfair is London’s destination for food, drinks, music, and art. For many years Sketch was famous for its iconic pink interiors, with the pastel walls and its artwork. However, the place has since received a makeover, and now the space is lavished in golden, sunny hues.

This place is the definition of an Instagrammable hotspot. You won’t lack in having the most radiant of vibes for your pictures to post on Instagram feed. 

The Shard

The Shard is now the tallest building in the United Kingdom, houses London’s Shangri-La, bars, and observation deck. Grab a drink and watch the sun set in the distance. Don’t forget to capture these memories for your feed. 

Tate Modern

One of the most photogenic museums in London, displaying modern and contemporary art. See work by Picasso, Rothko, Dali and Matisse for free and check the latest installation of the Turbine Hall. Create brilliant TikToks and take the most artistic pictures. 

Covent Garden

Covent Garden has always been photogenic and edgy but, in recent years they’ve added lots of Instagrammable props such as a wheelbarrow filled with flowers for your use. Surrounded by shops and food spots, you’re certainly chanced with capturing beautiful images.

The nearby area around Neal Street and Seven Dials also has pretty Instagrammable streets. You’re spoilt for choice! 

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of the most Instagrammable places in London, as one of the most iconic spots in the country. You can walk along the promenade and capture a picture there or from both the north and south side of the Thames river. 

Head to Butler’s Wharf Pier for a hidden and less crowded walkway with better views of the bridge. 

There’s a lot of beauty that we’ve showcased here, but rest assured knowing there’s much more than all this to unpack in London. If you want help organising a trip to London, and fancy visiting places a bit different to what you’ve seen here today, then please do not hesitate to get in touch. We are here to help 24/7.

Edited by Thomas Bracken

Best Dessert Spots In London

For those with a sweet tooth, London has an ample amount of dessert parlours ranging from luxurious gelaterias and the finest of patisseries to gourmet creperies and your low-key waffle stalls. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous for your palette then here are the very best places to go.

We have curated a list breaking down the most unique dessert spots in London, and just why exactly they’re worth your time. Let’s dive in!

1. Fried Horlicks ice-cream bun at BAO

Taiwanese restaurant group BAO are infamously known for their regular state steamed buns. So fluffy, so light and so delicious that you feel as though you’re eating a cloud. Said fluffiness is even more scrumptious under a crispy crust, achieved by the bread being dunked in a hot fryer before being split and filled with a silky, malty scoop of Horlicks ice cream. 

2. Baked Alaska at The Ivy

Haven’t you always wanted to see a waiter set fire to your food in front of you? The Ivy successfully does this with admirable panache with the ‘Baked Alaska’. The cherry and vanilla ice cream centre is kept chilly by the meringue coat, even after the dessert has been drizzled with kirsch and ignited. The beautiful blue flames warm the liqueur-soaked cherries that surround it. 

3. Darlish Baklava ice-cream sandwich at Berenjak

Baklava on its own is truly divine but with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream, it truly is to die for. The sticky sheets of pastry and savoury pistachios come with a sprinkling of chopped hazelnuts all curated by Persian ice-cream professionals Darlish. A luxury ice-cream sundae for the divine palette.

4. Sticky toffee pudding at Hawksmoor

This restaurant is notoriously known for its steak, but always plan for the dessert menu when you’re at Hawksmoor. The light dome of date sponge is drenched in a toffee sauce. If that treacle, buttery flavour wasn’t enough you get some clotted cream to really cement the indulgent feel.

5. Deep-filled apple pie at Chicken Shop

I bet your grandma’s apple pie doesn’t stand a chance of competing with the Chicken Shop’s one. It’s stuffed full of fruit and encased in a buttery, crisp shortcrust pastry. Choose between a drizzle of cream or a soft scoop of vanilla to go alongside. 

6. Lemon Meringue pie at Gloria

Everything about this Italian restaurant is a statement, from the candy-striped uniforms to the bare-chested lad on the pizza boxes, but the lemon meringue pie is the showstopper dish. The crisp pastry, tart curd and fluffy meringue combo is a treat. A pudding with presence

7. Halo Halo at Mamasons Dirty Ice Cream Chinatown

Set in Chinatown’s dessert alley, Mamasons specialise in hot and cold ube-based ice cream desserts. This dessert has everything from ube ice cream and dulce de leche to cornflakes and jackfruit that you mix in order to enjoy.

Many Filipinos come here for a taste of home, and many others go because it is incredibly popular with Instagrammers. A dessert to enjoy nevertheless. 

8. PBJ from Pophams

Any baking connoisseur knows croissants reflect the pinnacle of technique and ability. The team at Pophams love a challenge and they have become masters at challenging pastry. The showstopper is the PBJ: a little muffin-shaped swirl containing peanut butter, jam and a sliced banana. 

9. Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley 

French pastry chef Cédric Grolet is renowned for his realistic treats, resembling a fruit or a flower. The dessert experience is probably the most expensive in town but, of course, definitely worth it.

What’s surprising though is his single daisy tart which is composed of a fragile shell made using seven layers of filo pastry filled with vanilla pastry cream, two different styles of choux pastry buttons and chantilly cream. 

10. Shiratama Dango at Tsujiri Chinatown

Our final recommendation takes us right back to the heart of London’s very own Chinatown to discover the most unique of beverage cuisine.

Right next to Mamasons is Japanese dessert shop Tsujiri. They serve ice cream sundaes, Basque cheesecakes and gourmet drinks like bubble tea, frappe and floats. Everything here features traditional Japanese flavours.

Like what you see? Fancy getting a few more recommendation, or help for your trip to London? Let us assist you. Please do not hesitate to get in touch and let us help you organise the best trip to London you could dream of. We’ll relieve you of the stress and ensure that the trip is the best it can be. We are here to help 24/7.

Edited by Thomas Bracken

6 of the Best Things to do in London: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

London truly is an incredible city, isn't it? There's just so much to discover and explore. With countless attractions, restaurants, and museums, it can be tough to decide where to begin. But don't worry, we've got you covered. We've put together a comprehensive list of the top six things to do in London to help make your trip stress-free and unforgettable.

Party all weekend at Notting Hill Carnival

I'm so excited for the upcoming Notting Hill carnival! It's Europe's biggest street party and celebrates the amazing culture and traditions of London's Caribbean communities. This annual event has been going strong since 1966 and features a parade, live music, static sound systems, soca floats, and delicious Caribbean food. After the pandemic put a halt on live events, I'm thrilled to be able to attend the carnival this year. Don't miss out on the fun - mark your calendars for August 27th and 28th!

See free art at Tate Modern

If you're looking for modern and contemporary art in London, the Tate Modern is the place to be. Located on the South Bank, this gallery showcases works by some of the world's most renowned artists, including Warhol, Matisse, and Bourgeois. It's the perfect destination for anyone looking to witness artistry that is truly unique to the Tate Modern. And with different exhibitions and events taking place throughout the year, you're sure to have a completely different experience every time you visit. Be sure to take a ride on the Tate Boat, which shuttles between Tate Modern and Tate Britain along the Thames. This is an iconic gallery that you won't want to miss!

Discover the finest delicacies at Borough Market

Borough Market is a must-visit if you're looking for artisanal finds and delicious gourmet goodies. It's steeped in London's rich history and is definitely worth your time. You can watch in awe as you witness different cultures merge in this market. It used to be all about British produce, but now you can find dishes from all over the world, like French confit-duck sandwiches, Ethiopian stews, and even scotch eggs.

Feast on the finest food in Chinatown

Chinatown is one of London’s foodie gems. Standing in between Soho and Theatreland, you truly get a hit of that Chinese culture in an instant.

Bilingual street signs, lion statues and red-and-gold gates are there to welcome you back into an area of shops and restaurants filled with some of the best Chinese food you will ever eat. Go explore supermarkets like See Woo, and grab a meal at fast-food spots like Chinatown Bakery.

Discover drama and comedy at the National Theatre 

The National Theatre is an iconic landmark in the UK, situated on the South Bank which is a prime location for experiencing everything London has to offer. Despite the COVID-19 lockdowns, they managed to keep the show going by offering live events virtually, enabling viewers to stream some of the most popular plays. You can now enjoy unforgettable British theatre at any time and from anywhere. Make sure you catch The Crucible and Hex later this year, they're not to be missed!

Book yourself a ride on the London Eye

If you're looking for an extraordinary way to explore London's iconic skyline, there's no better option than the London Eye. It's Europe's tallest observation wheel, located on the South Bank of the River Thames, and it's also the most popular paid tourist attraction. Whether you're with your family, friends, or significant other, you can enjoy this attraction with a bottle of Champagne and create unforgettable memories on the London Eye while admiring the stunning views.

If you need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact us. We're available 24/7 to help you plan the perfect trip to London tailored to your preferences. Let us take care of the details so you can enjoy all that London has to offer stress-free.