Restaurants in Central London
From 'Forest Gump' themed diners to fine dining banquets (and everything else in between), Central London has it all when it comes to places to fill your chops. So, if you're feeling peckish, we can throw a cracking list of suggestions your way. In fact, let's do that right now... here's our hand-picked list of places to eat out in Central London.
Looking for further inspiration for dinner and drinks in London? Check out our complete guide.
Last updated on 27th June 2022
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.
£44 standard group deal, bringing you a flavour of Spain and Italy and 1 other offer
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.
Covent Garden boasts a stunning lineup of restaurants; none finer than the long-standing Tuttons. Situated on the eastside of the piazza, and looking out across the bustle of the famous markets, this is a place for classic English fare featuring seasonal dishes and traditional fare. It's open from breakfast right through until the evening and makes for a great spot to relax away from the markets themselves.
This Iberian eatery brings a slice of Spain to Leicester square. Head down and tuck into a menu full of tasty tapas dishes that deliver authentic flavours thanks to the super-fresh ingredients and original recipes. Naturally, make sure you wash down all of this continental cuisine with plenty of Sangria. And to end your night the right way, get to hip-swinging on the dance floor!
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.
Flight Club is here to add fun to all your Central London restaurant needs. The quirky venue is all about the darts, with state-of-the-art ochres, an electronic scoring system and piles of pizza. Head to Holborn for a dinner like no other.
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...
Just shy of both Covent Garden and Leicester Square alike, The Long Aacre is a Central London restaurant known for their fun-time atmosphere and affordable menus. Churning out classic British plates alongside curated and crafted cocktails The Long Acre promises lush dinner and drinks in their quirky confines.
Ruby Blue offers up a luxurious dining and drinking experience without the hefty price tag. Located on the world-famous Leicester Square, the team here put the focus on hearty comfort food, with burgers and moreish finger food to satisfy every craving. It's ideal for an early-evening meal or sitting down for a feast before the theatre, and happy hour offers up to 50% off drinks (5pm-8pm, Sunday to Friday) to boot.
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.
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.
Only a short stroll away from Piccadilly Circus, Dirty Bones Carnaby has been turning heads with its Southern-inspired offering and fun-loving vibe. The team behind this venue combine mouth-watering comfort food with playful cocktails and serve diners a meal that'll leave them waddling on their way home. Enjoy fiery buttermilk fried chicken, sink a few ice-cold whisky cocktails and see where the night takes you at this fun venue.
Head to the fittingly named One Tower Bridge where you'll be treated to incredible views, a lush outdoor terrace and food from well-known names on London's dining scene. Such as? Gunpowder, Rosa's Thai Café, Prosseco House and The Ivy, to name just a few.
Lunch menu for £23 & £25 (Monday to Friday 12-5pm) and 2 other offers
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.
A hive of activity for theatre-goers just around the corner from Covent Garden, Ping Pong is a welcoming and chic restaurant specialising in dim sum and cocktails (although there's no table-tennis). Make yourself at home in the mezzanine dining room or retreat to the basement floor, the restaurant serves a seasonal menu of bite-size dim sum paired with delicious cocktails and theatrical Chinese teas.
With locations in Barbican and Kensington, Côte St Katherine Docks is a great spot to frequent if you're looking for French food in Central London. Chow down on sumptuous charcuterie boards and classic steak frites while tipping back a glass of Champagne.