A transport hub like no other, bridging some of the city's most famous areas, including Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square and Soho, you can bet that this focal point of London is close to many fantastic eateries. Whether you fancy wolfing down French fare in stunning surroundings or tend to opt for a comfortable (but delicious) roast in a local, cosy boozer, we've got the best restaurants in Charing Cross right here, whatever your dining priorities.
While only available for private dining experiences, this list wouldn't be complete without Hampshire Penthouse. This snazzy hangout can be found atop a five-star hotel, offering plush seating and awe-inspiring views. Plus, there are lots of menus available, from Italian to Mexican.
All Bar One on Villiest Street takes a cool and comfortable approach to dining, and are a great spot for classics you can count on. Literally next to the station, it's a favourite for a meal with colleagues before heading home, with lunch options keeping midday customers happy too. Pairing burgers with cocktails, and paella with pints, the menu is varied enough to suit all.
The Theodore Bullfrog is a cool, cosy pub that offers perhaps the best lunch near Charing Cross. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main strip, this joint slings out elevated British chow, from ox cheek and blue cheese croquettes to beer-battered cod with triple-cooked chips.
The Wellington is up there as one of the best restaurants on The Strand. Made up of stained glass windows, vintage paintings and chapel-like seating, it's a cool, cosy corner to chomp on toad in the hole and vegan cottage pie - the much-needed fuel you'll need after a day of sightseeing.
If you're on the hunt for fun restaurants near Charing Cross, Leicester Square Kitchen is absolutely killin' it. Toting a cool aesthetic, with marble tabletops, painted brick walls and banging DJs come the weekend, it's a slick spot to indulge in contemporary Peruvian and Mexican fare.
Enjoy dinner with a view over at 1 Leicester Square Rooftop. As one of the best rooftop spots to eat near Charing Cross station, this lofty legend showcases luxe, rounded booths, hanging plants and unbeatable vistas of the city. And when it comes to the cuisine, you can gobble down gourmet, European-inspired nibbles, such as charcuterie boards and fried calamari from as little as £6 a dish.
A traditional boozer boasting oodles of personality, The Princess of Wales sports comfy booths and vintage pictures lining the walls. As for the munch? Think hearty pub grub, including 10oz ribeye steaks, toad in the hole and award-winning pies, washed down with refreshing pints.
Nestled beneath Charing Cross station, Champagne Charlies fronts rustic charm, with bare-brick walls and wooden furnishings. But don't let the interiors fool you; this is a haven of Champers and sparkling wines, as well as a scrumptious menu of beaut, British classics.
At Colonel Saab Trafalgar Square and Holborn, traditional Indian flavours are reimagined through modern culinary techniques. The menu features a variety of dishes inspired by the Choudhary family's experiences across India, including regional specialities like the Sunday lamb curry and the Kandhari paneer tikka.
The restaurant's design reflects these journeys, with interiors adorned with Firozabad chandeliers and a mix of traditional and contemporary decor. The space includes a chic bar, lounge area, mezzanine, and private dining rooms, offering a versatile setting for any occasion. Colonel Saab combines the rich culinary heritage of India with a modern dining experience in the heart of London.
Situated on the site of a former palace, 116 Pall Mall is a stylish space stretching across five stories. The building was designed by the architect behind Marble Arch and Brighton Pavilion, maintaining its traditional features and original portraits of the Royal Family - as well as a 15-foot chandelier.
The menu features premium British dishes like roasted winter squash, Hereford beef burgers and pan-fried sea trout. What's more, there's even a Champagne bar by Searcys in the cellar.
2 or 3 Course Festive Set Menu - From £42 and 2 other offers
Say hello to Whitcomb's, a gorgeous fine dining favourite that champions French and Mediterranean flavours, an easy 5 minutes from Charing Cross, just shy of the main thoroughfare in Leicester Square. Transport yourself with their menu (with options for groups, children and vegans combined), promosing a hub of exciting dishes such as lobster linguine, baked turbot and burratta with Seville orange.
Add a little extra pizazz to your dining experience by heading to one of the finest Michelin-star restaurants near Charing Cross. With eyes over the kitchen, Frog tows the line between both comfortable and elite, promising dishes with stories to tell, all celebrating the best in British flavours and ingredients. There are tasting menus to choose from, featuring Adam's famed chicken butter, including a vegetarian option for the meat-free.
Gourmet Burger Club has planted its flag in Covent Garden with smashed burgers, generous sides and enough choice to keep the whole table happy. Beyond the signature beef patties, you'll find meat-free alternatives, vegan-friendly dishes, chicken options and sweet finishes including premium gelato and waffles.
The finest joint in town for seafood lovers, J Sheekey Oyster Bar has the freshest fish, oysters, and shellfish, all sourced sustainably. Boasting an open kitchen and an extended oyster bar, it's the perfect spot for grubbing before or after a show in Theatreland.
Craving some mouth-watering Italian food? Check out Bancone. This Covent Garden gem specializes in pasta and serves up classic Italian dishes like bucatini cacio e pepe, roasted pumpkin ravioli with oyster mushroom and sage brown butter, as well as tagliatelle with roasted tomato and smoked stracciatella.
