Stunning Fish: This incredibly glamorous establishment, owned by British entrepreneur Richard Caring, is a seafood restaurant heavily influenced by Asian cuisine. The restaurant is led by renowned German chef Bjoern Weissgerber.
Smith & Wollensky: Located in the Adelphi Building and spanning two floors, Smith & Wollensky is a traditional New York steakhouse that exudes a powerful ambience with its leather, wood, and brass accents. It is renowned for serving enormous steaks of exceptional quality.
Mere: Pronounced Mary, Mere is run by Monica Galetti and her husband David Galetti, who previously worked at the renowned Le Gavroche restaurant. Mere offers a straightforward menu with six choices available for each course.
Locanda Locatelli: The Italian restaurant we love in London now offers a menu filled with mouthwatering pastas that will leave you wanting more. Following a recent refurbishment, the restaurant looks better than ever, bouncing back from a fire incident.
Experience the culinary delights of Locanda Locatelli.
Zuma: With an impressive track record in Japan, Zuma has established itself as a top-notch eatery in the bustling city of London. Its original restaurant continues to be a sought-after dining destination, offering a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of culinary preferences.
Experience the Unique Flavors of Street XO: Renowned Michelin star chef David Munoz brings his Avant-garde culinary creations from Madrid to London, immersing guests in a dining experience that combines innovative cuisine with captivating artistic performances. Located in a stylish industrial-style basement, Street XO is a must-visit restaurant for those seeking a truly extraordinary gastronomic adventure.
Chiltern Firehouse: With a total area of 4,000 square feet, the restaurant at Chiltern Firehouse has enough space for 120 guests. Despite its lively atmosphere, the restaurant maintains a cozy ambiance.
Experience the unique charm of Chiltern Firehouse!
Henrietta: Renowned chef Ollie Dabbous and the team behind the Experimental Cocktail Club have collaborated to establish a hotel restaurant that exudes distinctive character.
Scott's: This highly regarded seafood establishment in Mayfair is a distinguished part of Richard Caring's esteemed restaurant and private club empire. With its elegant ambiance and exquisite cuisine, it continues to attract a stylish and affluent clientele.
Benares: The restaurant offers a menu that combines the unique flavors of modern Indian cuisine with the finest British ingredients. This culinary experience showcases the chef patron Atul Kochhar's extensive exploration of authentic regional Indian recipes.
Experience the exquisite flavors of Benares.
If you're in the mood for authentic tapas and delicious Catalan cuisine, Barrafina is a must-visit. This popular restaurant chain, run by brothers Sam and Eddie Hart, offers a unique dining experience in London.
With three locations to choose from, you're never too far away from indulging in their mouthwatering dishes. However, be prepared to wait as Barrafina operates on a no reservations policy, making the coveted bar counter seats highly sought-after.
If you're lucky enough to secure a spot, you'll be able to witness the skilled chefs in action, as they prepare the tapas right in front of your eyes. The vibrant and lively atmosphere further adds to the charm of dining at Barrafina.
The Ivy: After an extensive and widely discussed renovation, this renowned restaurant has managed to preserve its most iconic elements. Additionally, all the beloved dishes that have made The Ivy famous are still available for patrons to enjoy.
The Colony Grill Room is located in the discreet Beaumont hotel and pays homage to the classic grill rooms of the early 1900s, offering a selection of transatlantic dishes.
This elegant dining establishment, helmed by chef Nick Ingram, combines vintage charm and culinary expertise to create a memorable dining experience. From hearty steaks to delicious seafood, the Colony Grill Room showcases a diverse menu of timeless favorites.
Spring: Nestled within a wing of Somerset House along the iconic Strand, this captivating venue was once a tax office under the government's jurisdiction. Today, it stands as a remarkable testament to architectural transformation, boasting a sleek and contemporary aesthetic, helmed by renowned chef Skye Gyngell
Park Chinois: Park Chinois is a premier Chinese restaurant created by renowned entrepreneur Alan Yau. Offering a complete evening experience, it features a sophisticated ambiance, delectable cuisine, and live entertainment. Indulge in delightful cocktails, savor exceptional food, and enjoy captivating performances at Park Chinois.
Explore the captivating world of Park Chinois.
The Delaunay: Renowned restaurateurs Chris Corbin and Jeremy King, known for the successful establishment of The Wolseley in Piccadilly, have once again hit the mark with their latest dining venture, The Delaunay.
A testament to their culinary prowess and keen business acumen, The Delaunay has quickly gained popularity and acclaim since its opening.
Unique Dining Experience at Duck & Waffle: Nestled on the 40th floor of the iconic Heron Tower, in the vibrant city of London, Duck & Waffle redefines the concept of round-the-clock dining, offering a delightful twist on classic British comfort cuisine.
Indulge in the Flavors of Duck & Waffle.
Hakkasan: Offering a unique take on contemporary Cantonese cuisine, this establishment in Mayfair represents the renowned Hakkasan brand, known worldwide. The ground floor of the restaurant includes a bar and a spacious casual dining area, while the lower ground floor provides a more intimate and cozy ambiance for dining.
Coya: With three distinct kitchens, Coya offers a modern Peruvian dining experience with a focus on fresh and contemporary cuisine. Guests can choose from the ceviche bar, charcoal grill, or central kitchen to enjoy their meal.
Experience the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Coya.
Elystan Street Restaurant: Phil Howard, the celebrated chef renowned for his tenure at The Square in Mayfair, returns to the culinary world with his latest dining adventure in Chelsea. His elegant Elystan Street Restaurant serves modern interpretations of classic European cuisine.
Elystan Street
London's gastronomic landscape has experienced a transformative evolution in the past ten years, positioning itself as a formidable competitor with its more established international counterparts.
Whether it's high-end gourmet experience, innovative Indian flavours, a fusion of Peruvian influences, professionally crafted sushi and dim sum, or laid-back tapas, London's culinary repertoire is impressively diverse. All dishes are steeped in the vibrant energy of one of the most notable capital cities of the world.
With a lengthy list of 48 potential candidates, LTI has carefully curated this unique assortment of 20 luxury restaurants which represent the finest dining spots in UK's capital. Enjoy unparalleled gourmet indulgence in London.
Smith & Wollensky
Smith & Wollensky, a renowned American steak house known for its classic New York style, has recently expanded its presence to London's Covent Garden, marking its first venture outside of the United States.
Situated in the iconic Art Deco Adelphi Building with two floors of elegant dining space, this London location encapsulates the restaurant's signature atmosphere through its leather, wood, and brass decor.
Smith & Wollensky offers an exquisite menu featuring an impressive selection of mouthwatering steaks, crafted with the highest quality ingredients. Visitors can expect a power-packed experience as they indulge in generous portions of perfectly grilled, juicy cuts.
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this legendary steak house, now offering its renowned dining experience to discerning diners in the heart of London.
The London branch of Smith & Wollensky is a reflection of its iconic green and white aesthetic, featuring an exclusive dry aging chamber and three sophisticated private dining rooms.
The menu is predominantly steak-based, however, it excels in a wide variety of offerings including a remarkable range of shellfish, fish, and poultry dishes.
Their highly recommended starters include the Wollensky's renowned pea soup, their standout crab cake brimming with jumbo lump crab, or the delicate burrata with a refreshing tomato salad.
When it comes down to the main course, this restaurant stands out as the only steak house in London to offer the distinguished USDA prime in its menu – the Cajun bone-in rib eye, in particular, comes highly applauded. All steaks undergo a maturation process between 21 and 28 days, ensuring a quality experience that won't let you down.
The Smith & Wollensky premises reside in The Adelphi Building, situated beside Covent Garden Riverside, at 1-11 John Adam St, London WC2N 6HT and can be contacted via +44 20 7321 6007. Further details are accessible on their website.
Mere
Mere is run by Samoan-born New Zealand chef Monica Galetti and her husband David.
Mere
Mere, pronounced Mary, is overseen by former Le Gavroche duo Monica Galetti and her husband David Galetti.
Monica Galetti is more widely known for her TV appearances on UK cooking show “Masterchef,” and David Galetti is the former sommelier at Le Gavroche.
The restaurant’s head chef is Canadian-born Renee Miller, who has worked at Michelin star level. As you would expect, the dishes are expertly executed and very well presented, with unusual as well as classic combinations.
We like that the menu is uncomplicated – it has just six options for each course, which depend on what’s in season. There’s also a three-course set menu, but it’s not as impressive.
More unusual dishes include roasted squab with manuka glazed swede and a starter of scallop with black curry. All tables are well spaced and agreeable, but the sofa tables under the murals are the most comfortable.
Mere, 74 Charlotte St, Bloomsbury, London W1T 4QH; +44 20 7268 6565
Locanda Locatelli
Locanda Locatelli offers an inventive take on classic Italian dishes.
Locanda Locatelli
Giorgio Locatelli still personally oversees our favorite Italian restaurant in London, which is looking better than ever since undergoing refurbishment after a fire.
Legendary interior designer David Collins devised this cream and dark wood, intimate but luxurious dining space that’s all about relaxed indulgence.
Soft, rounded banquettes curve around large tables, and the ambiance is welcoming and cozy, yet elegant.
The menu consists of melt in your mouth pastas and the emphasis seems to be on letting the natural quality and flavors of the ingredients shine through, with many elements imported directly from Italy. A wide and impressive variety of breads are made fresh on the premises.
Roast monkfish in walnut caper sauce is one of the many stand out dishes and we also love the Tiramisu, which is perfect for sharing.
Locanda Locatelli, 8 Seymour St, Marylebone, London W1H 7JZ; +44 20 7935 9088
Henrietta
The establishment known as Henrietta provides a refreshing and innovative French menu at an appreciable price.
Henrietta
This exclusive hotel eatery, Henrietta, is the product of a collaboration between the Michelin-awarded cook Ollie Dabbous and the influential team responsible for the Experimental Cocktail Club, resulting in a destination with a unique character.
The stunning design aesthetic owed to Dorothée Meilichzon, a celebrated Parisian designer, ensures a memorable first impression.
Carrying a fusion of design choices such as forest green velvet chairs, brickwork on full show, glass ceilings, and the incorporation of dried flowers as a nod to reminiscence of historic gardens contributes to a cheery, vacation-like ambience.
The bar at this restaurant specializes in spirited creative mixtures, drawing inspiration from popular authors. Highlights include The Citadel - a punchy cocktail concocted with absinthe, gin, and a dash of orange bitters.
The Henrietta offers an inventive, Francophilic food menu, surprisingly cost-effective, with main courses starting just under £19 (approximately $25). Add a variety of grilled flatbreads ideal for communal dining and end the meal with perfectly executed madeleines, striking the sweet ending.
Henrietta, set at 14- 15 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8QH; reachable at +44 20 3794 5313.
Benares
Benares -- a British-Indian fusion restaurant from Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar.
Benares
Chef patron Atul Kochhar carries the distinction of being the first Indian chef to receive a Michelin star (at Tamarind), before earning one for Benares.
The restaurant, which occupies a large piece of prime Mayfair real estate, has a relaxed vibe despite its elegant surroundings. Tables are well spaced and the lighting creates a moody and romantic vibe.
The menu is made up of innovative, sophisticated and modern Indian cuisine using the best British ingredients, showcasing Kochhar’s tireless research of regional Indian recipes and global travels.
All the dishes prepared in the tandoor oven are excellent. Other stand outs are the crispy soft shell crab and the roasted rump of English lamb. The three-course set lunch is a good deal, and there’s a very interesting street food menu, but the tasting menu is ideal for special occasions.
Benares, 12a, Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1J 6BS; +44 20 7629 8886
Barrafina
Barrafina -- a no reservations Spanish tapas restaurant from restaurateurs Sam and Eddie Hart.
Barrafina
Sam and Eddie Hart now have three Barrafina restaurants, serving the best tapas and robust Catalan cuisine in London, with its original earning one Michelin star. A no reservations policy means queuing for one of the coveted bar counter seats, which would be very off-putting if the food was not outstanding.
The ethos here is to use the freshest and finest ingredients, and to interfere as little as possible. Barrafina’s famous specials board changes twice daily.
Head chef Angel Zapata Martin, who replaced Nieves Barragán Mohacho in 2017, presides over an ever-changing menu showcasing tapas from every region of Spain.
There is no bad choice here, but the restaurant serves some of the most flavorful pan con tomate and the specials are well worth trying, particularly the fresh fish.
Barrafina, 26-27 Dean St, Soho, London W1D 3LL; +44 20 7440 1456
The Ivy
Longstanding celebrity favorite The Ivy has undergone a major refurbishment process.
The Ivy
The iconic Ivy is back to its best following a major and much publicized refurbishment. It used to be known for its good and bad tables, but since its reopening and new layout, all tables thankfully share the same billing.
The small cramped bar at the entrance has been replaced by a majestic bar, designed for lingering and dining. However some of the restaurant’s more memorable features have been retained, such as the famous diamond shaped stained windows and leather banquettes.
Time-honored dishes such as shepherd's pie, liver with onions, and sausage with mash continue to grace the menu. These classics have been paired with unique options including miso blackened salmon and tuna sashimi.
The mouthwatering burrata with datterini, and beetroot salad make delightful starters. Main course favorites include the sumptuous fish and chips and the delectable rib eye steak, further elevated by the selection of accompanying sauces.
Expertise of the administrative personnel is commendable, though at times, their professionalism may give off an air of detachment.
Contact The Ivy located at 1-5 West St, London, WC2H 9NQ or call +44 20 7836 4751 to experience these exquisite culinary delights.
Explore six of London's finest and most enduring dining establishments, true classics of the capital city.
Scott’s
Scott's -- a seafood lover's heaven located in London's Mayfair.
Scott's/Paul Winch-Furness
This Mayfair seafood stalwart is part of Richard Caring’s restaurant and private club empire, and still draws a well-heeled, attractive crowd.
Dominated by a quietly majestic, marble topped seafood and champagne bar, dark red banquettes are discreetly glossy, fine silverware and crystal gleam gently under universally flattering light. The tables by the bar are the most sought after, as they give diners a perfect view of the entire room.
When it comes to food, the oysters are king when in season, otherwise there’s assorted crustacea such as the classic Lobster thermidor and a dizzying array of fresh off the line fish.
While Scott’s is a seafood lover’s paradise, the menu also has some game and meat dishes like venison and roast Cornish lamb.
It also offers an impressive 42 wines by the glass (with many available by the half-bottle carafe), showing an admirable commitment to the modern restaurant ideal.
Scott’s, 20 Mount St, Mayfair, London W1K 2HE; +44 20 7495 7309
Chiltern Firehouse
Chiltern Firehouse, an opulent hotel and eatery, finds its home within a restored fire station, courtesy of André Balazs.
Chiltern Firehouse
André Balazs stirred a whirlwind of excitement and debate in 2013 when he introduced this substantial addition to London's hospitality and gastronomical sphere - an event that very few other establishments can claim to have replicated in the past.
Chiltern Firehouse stretches across a sprawling 4,000 square feet and can comfortably host 120 guests. It is thoughtfully segmented into four interconnected sections: an intimate bar, the primary dining hub, a secluded zone tucked behind a partition within the main area, and a slimmer area at the rear.
This establishment exudes an energetic yet comforting ambience, and with a strict reservation regime, it remains a desirable location for patrons.
The lauded Chef Nuno Mendes, an El Bulli alumnus, masterfully crafts a cuisine that draws inspiration from America, but interprets it with a fresh approach. The restaurant's wine list is equally impressive, presenting options that cater to every budget, from modest to extravagant.
Chiltern Firehouse, 1 Chiltern St, Marylebone, London W1U 7PA; +44 20 7073 7676
StreetXO
StreetXO is Madrid Michelin star chef David Munoz's first restaurant outside Spain.
StreetXO / John Carey
Madrid Michelin star chef David Munoz (Diver XO) has brought his Avant-garde style cuisine to London, complete with a lot of artistic showmanship.
Set in an industrial style basement, the décor comprises red Formica tables, leather chairs and lots of art including a stand out neon fish over the counter area.
If you don’t take things too seriously and embrace the theater of it all, you’ll have a relaxed and fun evening.
Munoz has previously worked at Nahm and Hakkasan, and there are Asian influences in his dishes here, as well as European and South American.
The menu, which changes regularly, is varied and original, with steamed club sandwich, Pekinese dumplings, prawn suqet stew amidst the wildly colorful options.
It’s worth noting that the background music here is loud – so it’s not an ideal venue for those who want a quiet night out.
StreetXO, 15 Old Burlington Street. Mayfair, London W1S 2JR; +44 20 3096 7555
Zuma
Renowned for its reputation, the flagship establishment of the acclaimed Japanese chain in London continues to reign supreme in popularity.
Zuma
Acting as the foundational pillar for Zuma's global influence, the original restaurant still maintains a commanding presence among London's most prominent dining establishments. It perpetually resonates with a vibrant buzz every day of the week.
Playing host to authentic, gourmet Eastern gastronomy complemented by a dynamic, sophisticated Izakaya-like atmosphere, the Zuma experience is truely one-of-a-kind.
Mirroring the minimalist charm of its Eastern roots, its interiors display an inviting blend of subtle sophistication and casual relaxation with its unadorned wooden tables, understated beige chairs, and characteristic wooden latticework.
Its extensive menu caters individually to different palates, offering everything from Robata-style grilled dishes to a delightful assortment of freshly prepared sushi and sashimi. Featuring a Sake bar with a collection that spans over 40 different types of sake and signature Zuma cocktails, it provides an opportunity to explore the exotic.
Zuma, located at 5 Raphael St, Knightsbridge, London SW7 1DL, welcomes you. For reservations, dial +44 20 7584 1010.
Colony Grill Room
The Beaumont's Colony Grill Room serves up a classic American grill menu.
Colony Grill Room / Nick Ingram
Inspired by grill rooms of the early 1900s that offered gentlemen a welcome respite from the constraints of formal evening dress and dining, the atmosphere at Colony Grill Room is quietly cozy and relaxed, even when the dining room is full.
Tucked away in the hip yet discreet Beaumont, Chris Corbin and Jeremy King’s debut hotel, its decked out with plush deep red leather banquettes, white linen covered tables, sepia-toned deco inspired wall murals and framed images of yesteryear personalities.
The menu contains transatlantic classics such as chicken pot pie, Colony Club chopped salad, oysters (when in season) and beloved back catalogue hits like shepherd’s pie.
We recommend the build your own ice cream sundaes for dessert.
The Colony Grill Room, The Beaumont, 8 Balderton St, Brown Hart Gardens, London W1K 6TN; +44 20 7499 9499
Spring
Spring stands out in the culinary realm by featuring a versatile, daily evolving menu that marries seasonal British fare with innovation.
Spring
Nestled in a division of Somerset House on the Strand, Spring has metamorphosed from an erstwhile government tax office into a noteworthy gastronomic outpost, helmed by renowned culinary tactician, Skye Gyngell.
Step into the main dining precinct and let your eyes feast on the visual delights including an awe-inspiring white marble counter, broad paneled oak wood flooring, pastel-hued walls, towering ceilings, pristine white columns, and luxe honey-toned leather dining seats. If you are planning a visit to London and need accommodation, you can explore a variety of hotels near Somerset House here >>http://www.hotels-of-london.com/en/type/hotels-12/ for a comfortable stay that complements your dining experience.
Staying true to its mission of bringing only the ripest, seasonal ingredients to its customers, Spring’s culinary trajectory is marked by a simple yet tasteful approach to cooking.
Examining the menu one might encounter intriguing culinary pairings such as Guinea fowl teamed with butter-smothered leeks, delectable chanterelles, and velvety crème fraîche or perhaps, the wild sea bass perfectly meshed with a robust assortment of smashed borlotti beans, gently cooked tardivo and aromatic rosemary.
LTI also mentions that the restaurant's dedication to use only 'no-spray' vegetables and other ethical suppliers, has put it at the forefront in embracing sustainability in its operations. A notable fact is that it offers a 'scratch menu', made up of ingredients that often go to waste in other establishments, which underlines its commitment to significantly reducing food waste.
Spring, Somerset House, Lancaster Pl, London WC2R 1LA; +44 20 3011 0115
Park Chinois
Park Chinois pays homage to 1930s Shanghai glamour whilst serving the finest dim sum and Chinese cuisine.
Park Chinois
Alan Yau’s high-end Chinese restaurant is a sight to behold – its interior is as graceful as an 18th century French building, with a nod to 1930s Shanghai glamor.
Park Chinois provides the perfect full night out, with cocktails, great food and entertainment – there’s a live jazz bar on most nights – and it’s open until 2 a.m. every night.
All tables are excellent, but if you want to be closer to the action we suggest a table near to the small live music stage.
And although there’s much to admire on the menu, the duck for sharing is what most diners come for.
Complemented with steamed pancakes and hoisin sauce, Thai cucumber and spring onions, as well as a choice of caviar (a classy touch), it’s a particularly memorable dish that elevates Park Chinois into our London favorite list.
Park Chinois, 17 Berkeley St, Mayfair, London W1J 8EA; +44 20 3327 8888
Where to eat in London's Chinatown
Sexy Fish
Gastronomists with an affinity for seafood will find a treasure trove of flavors at the Asian-influenced Sexy Fish restaurant.
Sexy Fish
Introduced as an opulent addition to the portfolio of renowned restaurateur Richard Caring, Sexy Fish thrills the palate with an array of Asian seafood dishes, masterfully curated by accomplished German chef Bjoern Weissgerber.
This high-end, visually striking brasserie showcases a remarkable collection of custom-made art pieces, including unique creations by celebrated artists Damien Hirst and Frank Gehry, the visionary behind Bilbao's Guggenheim design.
Patrons can savor a spectrum of enticing dishes from the tempura section, indulge in seafood-packed salads, soups, and noodles, or relish a variety of flavorful fish dishes, intricately blended with Asian-style garnishes.
Seeking alternatives to seafood? The menu doesn't disappoint with its assortment of choice meats such as succulent bone-in rib eye steak, and the sought-after Japanese wagyu.
And wine connoisseurs will appreciate the restaurant's serious dedication to viticulture, featuring a selection dominated by reputable European producers and illustrious domaines and chateaux. Fans of aged bottles will find the vintage depth noteworthy. With its enormous popularity among London's culinary scene, a reservation at Sexy Fish is a must to ensure a seat.
Sexy Fish can be found at Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square W1J 6BR; To contact, call +44 20 3764 2000.
Hakkasan
With the capacity to accommodate 220 patrons over two levels of dining space, Hakkasan Mayfair, owned by the Hakkasan Group, is an impressive venue.
The second location of this globally recognized brand in London, Hakkasan Mayfair has consistently enhanced its reputation by offering innovative, modern Cantonese cuisine.
The establishment is divided into two sections - the larger, more relaxed dining space and bar on the ground level, followed by a secluded and intimate area in the lower section of the restaurant.
Hakkasan first made a name for itself with its original eatery at Hanway Place, known for a unique 'nightclub Chinoise' atmosphere, which was achieved through a thoughtfully designed and monumental interior featuring dramatic shades of blue and black. Hakkasan Mayfair continues this aesthetic, offering a sophisticated, glamorous ambiance.
Offering exquisite dishes such as honey and champagne-glazed roasted silver cod, stir-fried Chilean sea bass, and roasted duck with black truffle, the menu is a symbol of culinary delight.
Not just the dishes, but even the wine list has been meticulously crafted for a harmonious pairing. Each wine is tried and tested with at least four dishes to ensure a seamless complement with the cuisine.
Hakkasan Mayfair is situated at 17 Bruton Street, London W1J 6QB, and can be contacted at +44 20 7907 1888.
The Delaunay
The grand cafés of Mittel-Europe are the inspiration behind The Delaunay.
The Delaunay
Restaurateurs Chris Corbin and Jeremy King opened Delaunay following the huge success of The Wolseley in Piccadilly – and it has proved to be another big hit for the dynamic duo.
The dining room, modeled on the grand cafés of Vienna and Budapest, is undeniably stunning, with Old World charm in spades. Imposing chandeliers and leather banquettes add to its grandeur.
The menu is split into lots of sections, from soups, starters and wieners to crustacia, caviar, cakes and coupes – with lots in between.
Dishes are simple but well executed and, while the food is not fine dining, the sense of occasion being the comes from being in this brass and dark wood venue makes up for it.
We particularly recommend the Wiener Schnitzel and the steak tartare, and a crab cocktail to start.
The Delaunay, 55 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BB; +44 20 7499 8558
Duck & Waffle
Duck and Waffle is positioned on the 40th floor of Heron Tower, offering fantastic views over London.
Duck & Waffle
Bringing 24/7 dining to new heights, Duck & Waffle is based on the 40th floor in the Heron Tower, in the heart of London.
Its magnificent views and fun, playful take on traditional British comfort food make for a winning combination. Inside is industrial chic, from the graffiti in the bar area, to the wood planked ceiling, simple uncovered tables, farmhouse style white wooden chairs and the large u-shaped leather banquettes.
The restaurant’s small bar is also a fun destination in its own right thanks to its stellar views.
As for the menu, the eponymous duck and waffle (perfectly crisp duck confit, fried duck egg and waffle, accompanied by mustard maple syrup) is among the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
The majority of dishes here are ideal for sharing, which we highly recommend.
Duck & Waffle, Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY; +44 20 3640 7310
Coya
Located in the heart of Mayfair, Coya introduces diners to a unique and modern interpretation of Peruvian cuisine.
Coya: Redefining the Peruvian Dining Experience
Boasting three specialized kitchens- a ceviche bar, a charcoal grill, and an open kitchen, Coya offers an exotic fusion of traditional Peruvian ingredients and contemporary culinary techniques.
The menu, expansive in nature, invites diners to spend a handful of thoughtful moments contemplating their selection, while the vibrant and casual ambiance keeps the dining experience relaxed and enjoyable.
The appetizers on offer are neatly compartmentalized into four groups- ceviches, skewered anticuchos, thinly-sliced tiraditos, and varied small plates. Main dishes are broadly classified based on the base ingredient and the method of cooking employed.
Coya's menu highlights include the tangy sea bass ceviche, rich crab and avocado tacos, nutrient-packed quinoa salad, and the piquant arroz Nikkei (a hearty dish comprising Chilean sea bass, rice, lime, and chili presented in a compact iron pot). The 28-day aged Chuleton (rib of beef) offers a sumptuous delight for meat lovers. Moreover, the dishes designed for communal sharing add to the convivial dining experience.
Coya, 118 Piccadilly, Mayfair, London, W1J 7NW; +44 20 7042 71 18
Elystan Street
The acclaimed culinary personality, Phil Howard, partners in ownership of the Michelin-starred gastronomic haven, Elystan Street.
Elystan Street
Renowned for his significant contribution at The Square in Mayfair, the two Michelin star chef, Phil Howard is making waves once more. Teaming up with his partner in entrepreneurship, Rebecca Mascarenhas and toque Toby Burrowes, they have launched this enchantingly delightful dining spot in Chelsea.
The aesthetics inside are sophisticated, showcasing voguish concrete tables beneath intimate, sultry lighting.
Though the menu might not be as intricate as that of The Square, it excels in novelty and daring. Among the latest incorporations are a heavenly langoustine tartare and a layered duck salad paired with caramelized vegetables and a flavor burst of red onion.
Even though Elystan Street does not feature a bar, they offer an imaginative selection of cocktails, accompanied by an extensive list of excellent draught and bottled beers.
Elystan Street, situated at 43 Elystan Street, Chelsea, London SW3 3NT; reachable at +44 20 7628 5005.
Our Verdict on London's Restaurant Scene
London's vibrant restaurant scene is fueled by a diverse global influence, resulting in an exciting fusion of cuisines and atmospheres. The city boasts a range of renowned establishments, catering to various tastes and preferences.
When it comes to contemporary Indian cuisine, Benares stands out as our firm favorite. Its innovative approach and impeccable flavors make it a must-visit destination. Locanda Locatelli, on the other hand, reigns supreme in the realm of Italian cuisine, offering an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
In the Japanese culinary sphere, Zuma continues to dominate, impressing patrons with its exceptional food quality and lively ambiance. Furthermore, London's restaurant landscape has also seen a surge of casual eateries that inject new excitement into the dining scene. Noteworthy mentions include Barrafina, Duck & Waffle, and Coya, enticing visitors with their laid-back yet captivating vibes.
For those craving a delectable steak, a visit to Smith & Wollensky is highly recommended. With their expertly prepared cuts of meat, they are sure to satisfy even the most discerning carnivores. When it comes to reliable and enjoyable all-day dining, our preferred choices are The Ivy and The Delaunay, where you can indulge in delectable dishes from breakfast to dinner.
Meanwhile, Park Chinois offers an exceptional dining experience encompassing exquisite food, a charming ambiance, and captivating late-night entertainment. On the other hand, if you're seeking an entirely unique culinary adventure, StreetXO is the place to be. The theatrical presentation of dishes by renowned Spanish chef David Munoz will leave you mesmerized.
London's dining scene is currently at its peak, but with its popularity, securing a table in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Plan your culinary adventures wisely and savor the diverse flavors this city has to offer.