Best Restaurants Near Aldgate

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By Marcus Sanigar Food, Drink & Events Writer, DesignMyNight Food, drink and events writer with a decade of experience covering the UK hospitality scene. Has written for Expedia, Trainline and more. Last updated on 13th May 2026

Aldgate is a complex and fun mix of vibrant cultures from neighbouring postcodes, towering skyscrapers thanks to its prominence for London businesses and the tourist crowds of nearby Tower Bridge. Found in the heart of the City of London, this area is known as being a great place to get dinner and lunch combined, whether you're in need of a restaurant for after work, or just a casual coffee and small plate. Whether it's Italian, Asian or South American, we've done the job of recommending some of the best restaurants in Aldgate.




Penny Squares

On the hunt for the best restaurants near Aldgate Theatre? You'll find Penny Squares less than a 10-minute walk away slinging out contemporary British fare in a swish setting. We're talkin' dishes such as poached Cornish hake and roasted Jerusalem artichoke risotto.

The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen

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Situated on Aldgate High Street, The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen is atop spot for drinks and dining in the heart of the city. There's a pretty outdoor terrace, as well as gorgeous interiors filled with luscious greenery, colourful furniture and striking paintings on the walls.

Whether you're after casual cocktails and small plates or a larger meal, there's something for everyone here. Think butternut squash ravioli, steamed pork bao buns, steak frites and so much more.

Mowgli London Stratford

In Westfield Stratford City, Mowgli is perfect for a pitstop between shops. As you recharge after retail therapy, you can tuck into sensational Indian street food like tamarind treacle fries, Himalayan cheese toast and spicy chats. 

Got a bigger appetite? Try the delicious house specials - we're talking temple dahl, lamb bunny chow and Aunty Geeta's prawn curry.

The Hoop and Grapes

The Hoop and Grapes has a lot going for it besides its cracking drinks list. Pop by the traditional boozer and melt into one of the Chesterfield sofas before devouring all manner of hearty fare, from wild boar and chorizo pie to salmon fishcakes.

Som Saa

A restaurant from Andy Oliver, Mark Dobbie, and Tom George, Som Saa is a Thai restaurant with a reputation for offering a comprehensive, regional tour of the country through food. You can get to this Spitalfields location easily from Aldgate and with a two minute walk from Aldgate East.

Choose between the likes of five spice, soy-braised pork with fermented chilli sauce and a soy-cured egg and green curry with courgette, tofu, peas, aubergines and Thai basil. Better yet, their set menus start at only £30 per person - spanning from appetisers through to dessert - so you can keep to a budget.