Best Restaurants In Central London

We'll let you in on a little secret - if you have a good ol' snoop around China Town, you'll unearth one of the best hidden restaurants in Central London, Opium. This awesome oriental eatery serves up a menu full of delectable small plates - think King Prawn Dumplings and Cantonese Barbeque Pork Buns - as well as whipping up some tasty tipples too! All that and dim sum... 

Found in the heart of the West End, the Leicester Square Kitchen offers up a menu of delicious Mexican and Peruvian small plates designed for sharing, alongside a wonderful South American cocktail menu.

Voted London's best steakhouse and a triple award winner for Best Casino Restaurant, Heliot Steak House has plenty to bolster its claim to being one of London's top eating spots. From renowned Executive Chef Ioannis Grammenos, the menu is not messing about, serving up only the freshest ingredients, USDA Prime steaks and a handpicked selection of the finest global cuts.

Along with world-renowned beef, there's a sensational selection of expertly prepared fish, succulent lamb, tender chicken, indulgent pasta and creative vegetarian dishes on offer. The drinks list doesn't let the side down either, packing in fine wines and fizz from every corner of the world.

Looking for a vibrant spot for a bite in the heart of the city? Get on over to Fonda. Inspired by the colours and generosity of Mexican markets and home kitchens, this is the kind of place where recipes are passed down, tables are shared and the food is inseparable from daily life.

With chef Patron Santiago Lastra overseeing the kitchen, you can expect a modern take on traditional dishes, packed with fresh British produce. We're talking crudos, ceviches, tacos, tostadas, quesadillas, and plenty more.

Having been a Covent Garden favourite since 1991, Boulevard Brasserie brings high-end French cuisine to the heart of the West End. The three-storey venue reflects the atmosphere of 1960s Paris, with elegant furnishings and a sophisticated vibe - and there's outdoor seating that sits across from the Opera House.

Their extensive menu features everything from roasted butternut squash and feta risotto to wild mushroom bourguignon or moules mariniere, and  you can even enjoy two courses for £19.95 on their set menu, available Sunday to Thursday, or until 6.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

The Old Compton Brasserie knows a thing or two when it comes to whipping up tasty British classics. Whether you're sinking your teeth into chicken liver parfait on toasted sourdough with a rich plum chutney or a refreshing duck breast salad, this Soho venue is sure to impress.

In The Cumberland Hotel at Great Cumberland Place, Marble Arch, Hell's Kitchen brings Gordon Ramsey's signature dishes to the heart of the city. Inspired by the hit TV show, it shows off the chef's best known dishes, from pan-seared scallops to the 1.2kg wagyu tomahawk.

Looking for something extra special? Book the chef's table and you'll be served a six-course tasting menu prepared right before your eyes.

Crafted by Chef Founder Eran Tibi, Kapara draws inspiration from his mother's Middle Eastern home cooking and a rich legacy of baking traditions, all while prioritising fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients. The drink menu features an award-winning wine selection, alongside a unique “Gazoz” offering that blends soda with botanical herbs and exotic fresh fruits.

The result? A chance to experience the diverse flavours of the Middle East right in the heart of Soho.

Oriole is a speakeasy-style restaurant and bar situated in Covent Garden. This sophisticated spot promises live music, as well as a selection of delicious small plates such as Italian beef tartare and mushrooms with huitlacoche and egg yolk. While sharing these tasty bites, sip all sorts of premium spirits and cocktails - we recommend the Hanami Highball for whisky lovers.

Located on the bustling Regent Street, Aqua Nueva is the perfect venue for those of you seeking to share plates with loved ones. Grab your beau or closest pals, to enjoy a tasty Spanish menu curated by the talented Yahir Gonzale. To top it off? There's also a stunning rooftop.

Moments from Covent Garden and Soho, Steak & Lobster Bloomsbury is a top choice for top-notch meal without the huge price tags. From plates of steak and lobster, through to unlimited fries, this venue is all about the best things in life.

Honest Burgers are iconic on the patty scene across the UK and Oxford Circus is no exception. Here you can find affordable eats made with care and from scratch in their own butchery. All ingredients come from a local farm supplier and a super fresh - including the famous rosemary salted chips. On the menu? Classic house buns filled with smoked bacon and cheese, plus chicken breast patties slathered in pesto. 

Located on the high street is Home Marylebone, a gorgeous restaurant and bar that fronts extraordinary floral decor, inside and out. It's a great watering hole for a post-work drink or a laidback spot for a bite to eat thanks to its delicious, fresh and flavourful menu. Get your chops around the likes of garlic dough balls, holy f**k chicken wings alongside a blue Monday dip, plus pizzas topped with 'nduja and pancetta. To drink? Think signature cocktails like an Espresso Tequilatini and a Pineapple Margarita. 

This Berners Street gem offers the dining experience of a traditional Japanese izakaya with a contemporary twist in the heart of Central London. Flesh & Bins Oxford Circus is lined with golden lucky cats and cool, leather furnishings where diners sit and devour the likes of crispy duck leg, olive-fed British wagyu and lamb shank all served with two fluffy buns each. There's also sushi up for munching too, like sashimi and California maki, plus small plates such as beef fat potato chips and Korean fried wings. 

Located in St Christopher's Place, Busaba is bringing you the flavours of Bangkok right in the heart of London. Grab a weekday lunch for just £13, or push the boat out for date night with small plates and main dishes like red or green curry, flavourful soups or chargrilled steak.

After a restaurant near Oxford Circus? The Restaurant At Sanderson is a hotel spot that's got you covered from breakfast through to dinner, thanks to scrummy plates of British grub. Think miso-glazed salmon, steaks and more.

Mowgli is certainly one of the coolest restaurants in Central London. Situated on the ever-popular Charlotte Street, this unique Indian restaurant boasts pretty interiors, including hanging foliage and pendant lights, not to mention scrumptious curries and tiffin boxes.

Located in trendy Fitzrovia, 74 Charlotte Street is slinging out contemporary British and European dishes in a cool, elegant space. Decked out with earthy tones, natural textures and warm lighting, combined with friendly, knowledgeable staff, it's a place you can genuinely relax, while also enjoying some delicious, refined food that has earned the restaurant a recommendation from the Michelin Guide.

The kitchen, led by Ben Murphy (who has worked at numerous Michelin star kitchens across the world), serves a la carte, set and tasting menus, ideal for any occasion. You can expect fresh, flavour-packed plates such as tuna ceviche, Ben's fried chicken (with an optional caviar topping), lamb with cucumber and sweetbread, roast English duck, mushroom tart, and plenty more. You won't be stuck for wines, as the list here is incredibly extensive, with an expert sommelier at hand to help with pairings - although there are also cocktails (including a great selection of martinis) if that's where the mood takes you.

One the best tapas restaurants in central London, Salt Yard is all about simple, delicious and authentic Spanish cuisine done expertly. Head down to Goodge Street where you can nab some delicious plates of haddock croquetas, macaroni cheese and pork belly, washed down with fine wines and cold sherry.

Whether you're in Fitzrovia or Paddington, The Mughals Indian Restaurant is a great choice for authentic Indian fare in the heart of London. These guys have been cooking up a storm in London for over 50 years, bringing you family-style dishes.

Their menu ranges from paneer tikka to chicken jalfrezi and prawn saag - all halal and featuring plenty of plant-based options. Plus, they offer a special lunch deal for just £7.

Located in a former timber yard in the heart of Belgravia, Wildflowers Restaurant and wine bar is a sophisticated spot for date nights and meals out with friends alike. Much of their seasonal Mediterranean fare is cooked over coals to be enjoyed in a stylish setting full of vintage furniture. Tuck into everything from grilled red mullet to slow-roasted duck with grilled cherries here, paired with an Amalfi spritz cocktail or a glass of vino.

Below a massive disco ball are rows of benches, chopped wood and a stage boasting entertainment seven nights a week at this Bavarian haven. Albert's Schloss Soho is a restaurant and bar that's inspired by the heritage of Prince Albert and his love of the arts. The menu sees Alpine eats take over, such as schnitzel, currywurst and gooey fondue served with sourdough and potatoes. And for drinking? Expect plenty of bier and signature cocktails. 

One of the best restaurants in Central London, Whitcomb's is a French Mediterranean fine dining restaurant in the West End. Enjoy everything from pre-theatre dinners to elevated breakfast dishes and a sublime list of cocktails.

For something a bit sleek in Central London, check out JW Steakhouse for their selection of meats and prime beef. You'll get a perfectly cooked meal, alongside an impressive list of bourbons and whiskies from their bar.

Quaglino's is a luxurious restaurant in Central London that offers up a menu of European classics with a Middle Eastern twist. Executive Head Chef Mickael Weiss and his team here are known for rustling up some truly delectable dishes here - we'd recommend the Sea Bass, Fennel Purée, Lemon Confit & Back Sesame Dressing. Having mastered the art of combining flavours, Quaglino's is a extraordinary place to dine in London. 

Whether you're looking for a post-shopping bite or fancy a date night dinner, head to El Pirata. You'll find everything from tapas and paella to wine and desserts, so you won't go hungry or thirsty here.

Central London steak restaurants don't get much better than Steak and Company (it's literally in the name). Whether you fancy the steak stone experience, where the meat comes out sizzling and you can cook it more if that's to your liking, or halal options and other prime cuts, here's where to head.

Right in the heart of central London, Ekstedt at The Yard brings the bold, primal magic of open-fire cooking to Westminster. Housed in the iconic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, this Michelin-starred restaurant is the brainchild of renowned Swedish chef Niklas Ekstedt, known for fusing Scandinavian techniques with modern British ingredients.

Every dish is kissed by flame - no gas, no electric - just the elemental power of wood and smoke. From fire-charred oysters to reindeer with black pudding, it's a true sensory experience. With a cosy yet refined interior and an open kitchen that doubles as live entertainment, it's the perfect spot for a standout meal in the capital.

Situated on James Street, Gaucho Covent Garden is a top-notch Central restaurant. Dig into an array of succulent cuts, including ribeye, fillet and sirloin, complemented by delicious sides. On top of that, there are also bottomless Sunday roasts, live entertainment and cocktails galore.

After Indian restaurants in Central London? You can book the gorgeous Farzi 7 days or more in advance, which sees you tuck into tandoori paneer, lamb shank, biriyani and more. Plus, the city's best mixologists have cocktails for you too.

If you fancy a bit of Latin American flair, shimmy your way over to INCA London. Decked out with glowing, ambient colours, tropical plants and plush seating, this a gorgeous spot to tuck into a divine dinner. And while you chow down, you can also enjoy n extravagant performance.

Behind its luxe velvet curtain in Mayfair, Dover Street Counter blends retro Americana nostalgia with refined Milanese architecture. This high-energy, all-day diner serves up a menu that mimics the ultimate globally inspired hotel room service menu.

Expect everything from perfect cheeseburgers to decadent sourdough tuna melts made with Red Leicester. To wet your whistle while you're here, there's eight creative margaritas over on the cocktail list.

When it comes to Central London eateries, Mayfair's finest: Sartoria is a top-notch choice. Step inside this Savile Row gem and treat yourself to a range of luxury plates, from the likes of burrata to grilled octopus, accompanied by some Italian wine.

Visitors to Walkers of Whitehall will certainly be impressed by both the restaurants ambience and decor. As soon as you step through the door, the sleek, simple furnishings and tranquil painted walls gives the entire venue a refreshing feel. Adding to that, the diverse food menu is made up of both exqusite brunch dishes and brilliant dinner treats. Why not sample the Cumin Leg of Lamb or the bavette Steak served with chimichurri at this cosy resturant in the heart of Westminster. 

Standing proudly in the legendary Savoy Buildings, Simpson's in the Strand is one of London's true dining icons. Revived by renowned restaurateur Jeremy King, it serves up serious nostalgia with its classic British cooking.

Expect top-quality meats, seasonal produce and old-school technique. Standout signatures include roasts carved at the table from silver trolleys, hearty pies and heritage dishes like grilled bacon chop and railway mutton curry.

Searching for places around Adelaide Street? Barrafina is a Spanish restaurant worth getting stuck into. Settle into their stylish space as you tuck into everything from ham croquettes to lamb shanks and a wide range of cheese. Pair with a glass of wine or sherry.

From courgette flowers stuffed with goats cheese and topped with honey through to confit of pork belly and smoked Sardinian tuna, Opera Tavern really is showcasing the best of Mediterranean cooking. Head to the Covent Garden favourite for food that'll really tickle your tastebuds.

Central London's dining scene is home to the brilliant, affordable Crust Bros in Covent Garden. It combines two enormous pizza ovens, a huge bar, private rooms, and a playful menu that spans a margherita, Vegan Harlem Truffle, Cheesus Walks, and the indulgent Lasagne Bomba.

Whether it's lunch, dinner, or a late-night drink, cocktails and frozen beers keep you hydrated, and the West End location ensures it's always in the centre of the city's buzz. 

Tucked into St James's Market, just a short stroll from Piccadilly Circus, Fallow has rapidly cemented its status as one of Central London's most electrifying culinary powerhouses. Founded by chefs Jack Croft and William Murray alongside restaurateur James Robson, this dining spot turns sustainable eating into an absolute art form. 

The hyper-creative menu celebrates nose-to-tail and root-to-stem cooking with total flair - think their now-legendary snotty egg, smoked cod's head with sriracha butter, and irresistible whipped salmon belly.

When it comes to restaurants in Central London, it doesn't get better than Bardo St James's. Boasting red plush seating and gorgeous greenery, the haunt is perfect for date night. We recommend trying the lobster tagliatelle.

Looking for a restaurant with added entertainment? Boisdale of Belgravia is a stunning venue spread out across multiple floors, flaunting vibrant red walls, cosy velvet seats and a stage in the centre. While you're listening to live jazz music and sipping whisky or wine, tuck into their mouthwatering menu of pickled Orkney herrings, roast Dumfriesshire haggis with neeps and tatties, crispy chilli squid and much more.

Looking for a hearty feed in the city? Get on over to Prince Arthur. Part pub, part elegant dining room, it serves up delicious Basque dishes.

Think Galician Blond beef, wild turbot and bluefin tuna. Its signature cuts are all cooked over open flame on a custom-built, Spanish-imported grill.

A bit of an all-rounder, Colonel Saab in Holborn and Trafalgar Square is not only an absolute stunner of a restaurant, but it also serves up some of the best Indian food around. With a menu curated by Karen Anand, chow down on traditional lunch tiffins, butter chicken and so much more.

A trip to Inamo is akin to being warped into the future - here, you'll order your dishes via a sleek digital menu and you'll be kept entertained as you wait by the table-top-projected playful fishes. But this isn't just a techno-drenched gimmick, Inamo serve up some of the best Asian cuisine in London. Gorge on a menu of authentic dishes, from sushi & sashimi to Black Cod in Spicy Miso. 

This central London restaurant is a piece of Parisian paradise. Balthazar comes nestled just off Covent Garden plaza in the heart of theatreland bringing you a darling dinner and drinks set up for your pre or post theatre bash. Enjoy some classic French dishes and drink from their collection of fine wines and cocktails.

Lahpet is a Burmese restaurant in the heart of London, cooking up the flavours of Myanmar and serving them in a gorgeous, golden dining space. Founded by Dan and head chef Zaw, both of Burmese heritage, the eatery provides a tranquil and modern destination to wolf down fragrant curries and bespoke tipples alike. Perch upon a wooden high table underneath a crown of foliage, or take a seat on a leather sofa and tuck into coconut noodles, hake masala and braised mutton curry, followed by cassava cake for dessert.

Located just minutes from Oxford Street, this striking spot is home to mouthwatering Thai dishes, friendly service and impressive drinks. The first London outpost from the popular Asian eatery, Greyhound Cafe is the perfect place for everything from after-work drinks to weekend brunch.

When it comes to places to eat in Central London, Machiya - found between the main streets of Soho and Trafalgar Square, will sort you out with plenty of Japanese fare. Gorge on teriyaki-glazed salmon, tonkatsu curry and more, all while washing it down with the extensive sake list.

When it comes to the best restaurants in Covent Garden, Gura Gura has to be right up there. Not only will you get a stunning space of foliage-packed ceilings and cool tiles, but also a choice of pan-Asian fare for your meal. Think sushi, dim sum and more.

When you are planning a dinner in Central London, you often want a sense of occasion—a venue that feels large, ambitious, and pulsing with city energy. Town delivers exactly that on a grand scale.

This massive Drury Lane opening combines a striking, high-design dining room with a masterclass in modern sustainability. The food is wonderfully unpretentious yet deeply luxurious, featuring indulgent bites like honey-drizzled tempura sage leaves and pristine Cornish lobster laced with lardo and house-made XO sauce. It's a rare central hub where strict agricultural ethics meet pure, unadulterated urban fun, making it an essential anchor point for any night out in the capital.

Located in the heart of Soho, this stylish and relaxed restaurant serves up a simple, seasonal selection of Spanish-Italian tapas, cheese and charcuterie, as well as a slap-up selection of wines and a few unique cocktails.

Sit back and relax with a hearty plate full of American-inspired goodies with a soundtrack or rock n roll hits and famous instruments covering the walls. Hard Rock are famed for providing a truly unique and authentic experience, so indulge before you hit the shops.

Bringing a tasty of Italy to the streets of Fitzrovia, Conchiglia is a family-run restaurant specialising in pizza, pasta and classic dishes native to the country. Head here for a delicious meal with friends or an evening apritif with your beau.

28-50 Covent Garden is one of the best places to eat in Central London, offering a swish setting for grazing on European fare and sipping fine wine. Stop by after a busy day of shopping for a high-end feast from their team of acclaimed chefs. 

If you're looking for a fun spot for dinner in Central London, check out Ember Yard. The restaurant and bar is dishing up Spanish and Italian-inspired cuisine straight from its kitchen in Soho. After dinner? They've got a stylish basement so you relax with a drink in hand.

If you're after restaurants in Soho, Bella Italia is the casual yet cute destination you should hit up. It's dishing out all your favourite Italian classics, including freshly made pasta and authentic pizzas, alongside boasting its very own gelato van.

Located on the 4th floor of Selfridges in Soho, Pizza Pilgrims has made quite the name for its delightful slices and laidback vibes. If you're not quaffing lip-smacking cocktails in its gorgeous space, you're probably delving into its creamy burrata or dough balls. Yes, please.

Probably one of the most glamourous boozers around, The Sun & Thirteen Cantons is a popular Soho spot for the city's thirsty and hungry folk. As it's boasting Parisian-style interiors, as well as scrumptious vegan and veggie fare from Tendril, you can see why it's so sought-after.

After something different from your central London restaurant? Head to The Barracuda Club, where there's an eatery of cuisine from across the world attached to the casino. Expect live entertainment while you dine and plenty of cards for afters.

Situated in Marylebone, The Seashell of Lisson Grove is quite the stunner. Decked out with an aquarium seating area and an octopus bar, the venue slings out seafood and fish 'n' chips from popcorn cod to prawn cocktail and calamari strips. Choose between freshly grilled fish or get it nice and crispy.

For some of the best Spanish food in Central London, Pizarro is a real winner. Boasting stylish interiors and a tonne of wine, the venue also showcases the most scrumptious small plates. Think everything from white pickled anchovies to olives and grilled squid.

Combining the finest gastro grub and the feel of a British boozer is The Devonshire, a famous pub on Denman Street in Soho. The teams behind the likes of Guinea Grill and Flat Iron have joined forces here, making sure the menu reflects all your British favourites while making use of UK produce and in-house butchery.

If you're looking for indulgent Italian eats in gorgeous surrounds, then make your way to Bocconcino Soho, found on Great Marlborough Street. This decadent spot is full of marble and quirky design, as well as a menu full of Mediterranean goodness. We're talking aubergine parmigiana, truffle and prawn ravioli or wild boar tagliatelle, and if you swing by at lunchtime then you can even bag three courses for £29.

Looking for a stunning spot to drink and dine in the heart of the city? Located in Fitzrovia, Lucy Wong is a stylish cocktail bar and restaurant inspired by 1950s Hong Kong - fronting gorgeous pink and golden decor, marble-topped bars and sultry low lighting.

There's all sorts to enjoy here, from late-night cocktails to dim sum or even bottomless afternoon tea. Tuck into the likes of king prawn dumplings, crispy chicken skin or salt and pepper tofu, paired with a classic paloma or a signature Pandan Milk Punch.

Located right on Leicester Square, it doesn't get much more central than Skewd. This is an award-winning Turkish restaurant that takes a fresh approach to cooking, boasting a wide range of beautifully prepared mezze and larger dishes.

Tuck into everything from coal-fired octopus with chips to seasonal vegetable skewers and their signature lamb shish. On the drinks front, there's a wide variety of wine and cocktails to enjoy.

Situated in Fitzrovia, LIMA is an authentic Peruvian restaurant run by brothers Gabriel and José Luís Gonzalez. This place has won many awards, boasting a hearty menu of pistachio lamb rump, stone bass ceviche, maitake mushroom with fresh corn cake and much more.

There's also an extensive range of drinks on offer, from fine wines to Latin American-style cocktails. As for the interiors, think sleek grey walls, simple wooden furniture and colourful ceiling displays.

Richoux stands out for its confidence and consistency. This central London restaurant champions classic brasserie dining in a setting that feels both grand and comfortable, striking a balance that's increasingly hard to find.

The menu spans generous, well-executed dishes such as bone-in ribeye for two, mushroom rigatoni with Madeira crème, and squash and potato gratin finished with Brie de Meaux. 

You might have guessed from the name, but Ember At Horizon is mighty passionate about fire. Expect charcoal-grilled meats, smoky mezze, perfectly seared seabass and bold Pan-Asian dishes - all carrying that unmistakable depth that only live-fire cooking delivers. 

If you feel like an alfresco evening, head out to the heated terrace. This place gives you shisha, handcrafted cocktails and an atmosphere that keeps going long after the West End shows have wrapped up.