Romantic Restaurants In London

In the heart of London's Theatreland is a gorgeous, Art Deco-inspired restaurant called Balthazar, filled with towering pillars and opulent fixtures. Atop crisp tables are French dishes bound to please those who have a palate that favours European cuisine. Among candles and wine racks, you'll find live jazz nights and private dining rooms, but if you're on a date? Opt for a table for two and tuck into the likes of pea and mint soup followed by beef bourguignon. 

Decked out with a pretty pond, India-inspired furniture and lush seating, Michelin-starred Benares Restaurant & Bar is an excellent shout for date night. Interior-wise, you can expect to be seated at crisp white tables, surrounded by textured walls and dark panelling. Tuck into a menu of traditional Indian fare, thoughtfully curated by chef Sameer Taneja. Their tasting menu (£99) is also worth checking out if you want to impress your other half: think tandoori ratan, Hiran boti hot tikka and tawa masala stone bass, plus so much more. 

Ready to book a table and want to find something quick? Use our brand new search engine to choose between 1000s of venues, from romantic restaurants and cosy pubs to swanky cocktail dens. Even better? You'll earn rewards to spend on incredible experiences and events on DesignMyNight, just by booking. It's that simple.

Located in the heart of Soho, Ember Yard is definitely a spot for a romantic night out. It sports industrial-style interiors with low-hanging, exposed light bulbs and high tables surrounded by sleek leather stools. Dive into their fabulous Spanish and Italian tapas-style menu, with dishes ranging from yellowfin tuna with guindilla ajoblanco, to grilled lamb cannon fillet with burnt aubergine and, of course, some fabulous cocktail options. The Passion Yard includes vodka and passionfruit and the blood orange margarita is a must-try, if you haven't filled up on sugary churros for dessert. 

Boasting sultry vibes, Jones & Sons is the ideal stop-off for romantic occasions. Located in an old Victorian textile factory, the venue boasts original features and simplistic Scandinavian furnishings, alongside a cracking menu filled with British plates. Book your spot for dinner to delve into the house focaccia to start, followed by grilled asparagus topped with truffle and parmesan, burrata drizzled in pesto and sea bream fillet in wild garlic, capers and anchovy. As for the drinks, it doesn't skimp on flavour with fruity numbers like the smoked watermelon paloma packing a punch. 

Schmooze your boo by treating them to an evening of exceptional wining and dining over at Bleeding Heart. The atmospheric Farringdon find is sure to send hearts aflutter with its delicious French fare, extensive wine list and intimate interiors. Choose to dine in either the bistro and terrace, equipped with authentic pieces of art and mustard-coloured walls, or the Tavern Bar & Grill. At the former, you'll find an incredible wine list boasting more than 350 by the bottle, as well as dishes like escargot 'bourguignonne' and French rabbit leg with mustard. 

Bardo St James's is a real winner for date night and Instagram. From mirrored walls to red velvet chairs, it's certainly a seductive spot. Since its opening in 2021, it's been marrying delectable Italian cuisine with live entertainment and elegance. Munch on everything from homemade rosemary focaccia to lobster tagliatelle while admiring the venue's luxe interiors and gorgeous greenery. If you're keen to try a bit of everything, order the tasting menu for £90 per person, which includes the likes of short rib beef and aged balsamic vinegar-glazed duck breast.

Found near St. James' Park in Westminster, The Pem is a gorgeous restaurant that's ideal for a romantic meal. Their plush velvet seating and pink interiors add a date night vibe to the restaurant, where you can enjoy smoked trout or roasted venison. What's more, this menu is designed by the award-winning Sally Abe and Michelin-trained head chef Laetizia Keating, executed by a female-powered kitchen team.

Romantic, fancy restaurants in London don't get much better than Trishna, where they're delving out Michelin star Indian cuisine in a stripped-back space. Wander past dark, wooden tables and exposed brick walls to find your seat where you'll be able to tuck into its scrumptious fare. Begin with some masala fried soft shell crab before making your way onto the mains: think peanut garlic prawns and tandoori lamb chops to name a few. If you're really looking to treat someone special, this is the place.

Is there anything more romantic than an exclusive sky-high bar? We don't think so. Head along to 8 at The Londoner, where you and your partner will be able to enjoy traditional Japanese izakaya in the open-air Shima Garden. Swoon. With leafy green surrounds and modern architecture, it's a really sophisticated spot to try the likes of sea bass carpaccio and beef tataki with truffle ponzu. And if that wasn't enough, the whisky and sake collection is worth coming for alone, as well as signature cocktails such as the jasmine and yuzu margarita and the vodka-based Matcha. 

In need of a rather special date night? Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant has got you and your partner covered. One of the most romantic restaurants in London with a view, this sleek rooftop bar comes complete with a swish terrace, dazzling drinks and a menu that will melt even the coldest of hearts. Located on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel, it's made for cosying up in and enjoying a selection of small plates, like crispy seven-spiced squid with a sesame and lime dip, or charcuterie boards washed down with a signature cocktail. From the gin-based Amalfi to the vodka and eucalyptus Midnight Lover, there's plenty to choose from.

For those romantic dinners with your other half or potential partner, head along to Colonel Saab in Holborn. Whether you're popping in for an Indian and British fusion afternoon tea touting mouthwatering treats or for the delicious tasting menu (£80 each), you're both bound to be impressed. Its interiors are dazzling, with ox-blood walls and sparkling chandeliers, not to mention the pretty plates fixed to the walls. Marvel as you feast on the Madras-spiced pulled chicken cutlet, a home-style lamb curry and more.

When it comes to romantic restaurants in London for couples, Barge East is bowling down the competition. Perched on the water, just shy of the Olympic Stadium, the 120-year-old barge offers couples the choice of dining onboard or on their riverside terrace - ideal for those starry summer evenings. The menu embodies a sustainable fine-dining ethos and is developed by head chef Stefano Camplone who's helped the eatery win AA Rosettes for culinary excellence. The a la carte includes the likes of Fowey mussel escabeche with salt and vinegar chips, British asparagus and aged beef tartare, followed by mains such as glazed aubergine or local fish over coals. 

Piazza Italiana touts gorgeous Grade II interiors, including ornate ceilings and stylish chandeliers, making it perfect for date night. While it's housed in the former home of British Linen Bank, it's not just a pretty face; there's also a mouthwatering Italian menu to sink your teeth into, from burrata to droolworthy risotto, creamy spaghetti and more. Chef Remo Mazzucato has over 50 years' worth of experience across the globe, and the food at this gorgeous venue is reflective of that and worth the wait.

A popular pick in Clerkenwell, Bourne & Hollingsworth is an all-day eatery and bar combining tasty food with swoon-worthy scenes. It sports an elegant, marble mosaic cocktail bar that opens out to the street and park, as well as a leafy green dining room where brunch or dinner can be enjoyed in a botanical setting. Take your other half here for a special date night, devour roast cod or grilled ribeye steak followed by the sake-based Kyoto Sunrise to quench your thirst and you'll see why it's gained a name as one of London's best romantic restaurants.

The original cabaret hotspot in Soho and Mayfair, Inca London, is bringing a flair for the dramatic and a touch of Latin American pizzazz to your plain ol' date night. With their vibrant decor and delicious food, get set for a dining experience that'll leave you and your boo in awe. Dive into goodies like Nikkei baby chicken and yellowtail hamachi roll to ascend to foodie heaven.

Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, The Petersham is a beautiful, botanical restaurant that's ideal for a romantic dinner. As well as a pretty garden featuring wooden animal sculptures and elegant patio chairs, its interiors front gorgeous chandeliers and plants. The menu draws upon Italian flavours and uses seasonal produce to create inspiring plates such as asparagus and scallop risotto (£29), hake, leek and dill oil (£36), plus glazed short rib alongside wild garlic mashed potato (£38).

For a meal by candlelight in sexy surroundings, Wood & Water in Brixton is just the place. It comes equipped with elegant marble tables and rich furnishings that make for a sultry setting. Head here for a mix of British and Jamaican small plates like plantain chips or slow-cooked goat croquettes, all washed down the hatch with a unique cocktail list worthy of date night. Stare into each other's eyes over a Pimento Old Fashioned, served short and with chocolate, while also tucking into the likes of paella popcorn.

A slinky little number in Brixton, it's not hard to see why The Courtesan is one of the most romantic places to eat in London. The speakeasy has garnered acclaim for its dim sum dishes, themed cocktails and salacious burlesque nights. Adorned with dark wooden panelling and ruby red lights, it's an intimate den to enjoy XO chicken cress dumplings and curious pumpkin buns, washed down with a Diaochan, made with cognac, almond, plus limoncello and chocolate cream. What's more, its drinks list includes exclusively female-produced wines, spirits, liqueurs and syrups which is a unique draw.

A sure-fire way to wow your date? Take them to one of the best restaurants the city has to offer. Fortunately for you, the award-winning Opium just so happens to be in the running. Tucked away behind an inconspicuous green door, this chic, 1920s-themed dim sum parlour and bar treats you to a menu of fresh seasonal dishes and some firecracker cocktails. You'll find the Peony and Apothecary bar on the second floor; intimately lit with a seductive red glow, it's the ideal corner to hide yourselves away and sip signature serves, such as the Luna Rossa, made with Plantation Original dark rum and Dolce Vita aperitif.

Up there for romantic London restaurants, No 1 Duke Street is a beautiful Richmond kitchen and bar. Along with a fairy-light-clad courtyard and stunning interiors, the date night spot also has a range of cocktails, beers and sustainably sourced food available. Make a brunch date of it and invite your partner along to revel in buttermilk pancakes topped with streaky bacon and fried rich egg yolk, or visit for dinner when rare-breed steak sandwiches are on the menu. As for drinks? You'll be spoilt for choice when you spy Salt Toffee Coladas and Pear Vanilla Collins up for sipping. 

Located in the heart of Chelsea, Ollie's House is an ideal venue for those low-key sultry evenings with your loved one. It's a tropical all-day paradise that offers an alfresco feel inside, thanks to its soft lighting, thatched wooden chairs and potted plants. So what's on the menu? Sink your teeth into moreish steak fried rice or Korean beef short rib, followed by an apple crumble bao bun. If you're looking for cheap eats, this venue slings out gyozas for 50p a pop from Monday to Friday, 3pm 'til 6pm. What a bargain.

For a truly decadent date night, step back in time at The English Grill at The Rubens at The Palace Hotel. Steeped in history and grandeur, this mahogany-lined restaurant is covered in Renaissance artwork and crystal blue-encrusted chandeliers. It serves up some of the highest quality food in the city and holds two AA Rosettes to prove it. Executive chef Ben Kelliher leads the menu full of signature British classics and steaks cooked on a charcoal-fired Josper Grill. Begin with lamb croquettes before tucking into its famous beef Wellington, made for sharing. Romantic, right? 

Come rain or shine, Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is the perfect venue for those much-deserved date nights with your other half. Touting two terraces, a rooftop space and a gorgeous dining room, this restaurant is full of sultry spots to charm your partner. Among soft, olive green furnishings and golden light fixtures, dine on seasonal British produce such as a rack of lamb alongside potato terrine, plus lamb shoulder croquettes with a fermented plum sauce. Tempt your partner to a cocktail too, with a list featuring the coconut rum-based Gold and the fruity Ruby, made with pineapple gin. 

Hidden below the streets of Paddington, Ayllu will transport you and your partner to the plains of Japan and Peru through its fusion cooking, with sushi and small plates on the menu. Kitted out with rich hues, booth seating and intimate lighting, this broody spot oozes romance. Be tempted by one of its bespoke cocktails, such as the Nikkei Mojito, made with shiso leaves and plum wine, or the pisco-based, fruity Flamingo, then feast on salmon tacos, ceviche and delicious meats from the robata grill. 

Located on Fenchurch Street, 14 Hills offers unparalleled views in a stunning green setting and is a visually striking restaurant thanks to the towering trees that branch over tables in the main dining area. Surrounded by soft peach lampshades and sparkling light fixtures, kick things off with a bottle from their extensive wine collection, before moving on to the main affair, where British classics are cooked to the highest standards. Pull apart a tender Herdwick cannon of lamb served alongside creamed potatoes, or tuck into a seared fillet of halibut. 

For romantic restaurants in Central London, look no further than the sultry interiors and top-notch Spanish fine dining fare at Arros QD. Born from chef Quique Dacosta's lifelong adoration of paella, the gorgeous haunt's menu revolves around a six-metre wood fire stove. The space is designed by interior master Lázaro Rosa-Violán and features cool, coal-black tiles and rich, burnt orange furnishings. You can tuck into a range of tasting spreads or opt for their tapas bowls; from Presa Ibérica to panko-fried prawn rolls, you'll be spoilt for choice. 

Wine and dine your other half at Gaucho Covent Garden. Located within an extension of the historic Royal Opera House, it fronts low-lit interiors aiming to captivate the essence of Buenos Aires' tango theatres. At this gorgeous Argentinian venue, you'll get to dig into an array of succulent cuts of steak that are ethically sourced. From fillet to wagyu, accompany your choice with tasty sides, such as truffle mac 'n' cheese and sauteed broccoli. Thirsty? Check out the cocktail menu that boasts the signature rum-based Honey Punch and a Citrus Negroni.

Stepping into Circolo Popolare is a little like stepping into a fairytale. Adorned with hanging flowers, candles and fairy lights, this trattoria takes the crown for Italian romantic restaurants in London. Famed for its giant cheese wheels full of pasta and ten-layer lasagnas, the Fitzrovia den is a feast for the eyes in more ways than one. And for dessert? The Big Mamma group eatery whips up a towering feast in the form of The Incomparable Lemon Pie: a zingy tart with a 5'9-inch meringue layer, which is also available at its pretty Shoreditch haunt, Gloria. 

Looking for a romantic restaurant in London? Kudu, the hotspot on Queens Road in Peckham, is shaking things up in the neighbourhood's dining scene. Run by the dynamic duo Amy Corbin and Patrick Williams, this joint serves fresh South African-inspired dishes using herbs and vegetables straight from their backyard. We'd recommend trying out their delicious confit duck served with maitake, Jerusalem artichokes, and minestra nera.

Noble Rot is an award-winning restaurant situated on Lambs Conduit Street, boasting sultry interiors and walls fixed with its own graphic artwork. What was formerly a bootmaker, surgery and an electrical shop at different periods in time has now evolved into a trendy haunt where executive chef Stephen Harris whips up his French English-inspired menu. The likes of coq au vin and rhubarb crumble cake can be inhaled here, alongside a glass of wine as it would be rude not to, considering it was voted 'Wine List Of The Year' at the World Restaurant Awards 2019. 

High up in the iconic London building is Hutong at The Shard, an enigmatic Northern Chinese eatery that comes with panoramic views of the city. It was founded and designed by the founder of Hong Kong's Aqua restaurant group and fronts ruby red lanterns, towering trees and intimate lighting. A romantic meal is without a doubt on the cards when booking a spot at this sought-after setting serving Lu cuisine. If you're worried about spending too much, it's got you covered with its £39 lunch tasting menu, featuring Iberico pork dumplings, Sichuan shredded beef and salted egg yolk prawns.

Jolene is an incredibly popular restaurant on Newington Green that's frequented by celebrities and locals alike who are looking for delicious, ethically sourced sharing plates to gobble down. Boasting shabby-chic walls and natural interiors, it was founded by Jeremie Cometto-Lingenheim and David Gingell (from Western Laundry). The pair source their produce from farmer Andy Cato and turn it into a daily-changing menu that's seen the likes of saffron risotto and lemon sole take centre stage. 

Nestled in the oh-so-fancy Belgravia hotel, il Pampero is the real deal when it comes to authentic Italian goods. They whip up delicious classic food, pour great vino, and mix up some seriously creative cocktails. The menu is all about hearty comfort food, with dishes like the slow-cooked lamb shoulder and spring veggie casserole, as well as the veal chop Milanese-style with rocket and parmesan salad on offer.

J Sheekey Oyster Bar is an iconic seafood restaurant that can be located in the bustling Leicester Square. Fronting an iconic ruby red exterior and a dining room sporting leather booths and monochrome pictures, it's a picturesque, old-fashioned haunt which sees live jazz bands play every Sunday. Visit with your partner for the obvious oysters and Champagne that the eatery is so well-known for, as well as plates like roasted Cornish scallops, sticky tiger prawns and Galician octopus.

At Carousel's Neighbourhood Wine Bar, seasonal snacks and small plates are the stars, perfectly complemented by an expertly curated lineup of minimal-intervention wines and signature cocktails. The menu draws on Chef and Co-Founder Ollie Templeton's explorations through Central America and the innovative spirit of Carousel's guest chef program, resulting in an explosion of vibrant and inventive flavours.

Visit here for a cute date night - dishes to try include crispy hash browns with 'nduja and boquerón, burnt asparagus with leeks and sesame, and grilled squid with smoked butter and chintextle.

A jack of many trades, The Culpeper houses a pub, restaurant and a gorgeous rooftop garden where it grows its own produce. Take your love up to the sky-high terrace and sit among the herbs sipping on botanical cocktails and devouring fresh food made using only high-quality ingredients. Or, if you'd rather save a sneak peek of the Gherkin until later, dine on the first floor among white exposed brick walls and dangling foliage, munching on crab bisque with wild garlic oil, and miso hake served alongside pink fir potatoes, chives and dashi beurre blanc.

Flaunting scalloped, velvet booths, hanging plants and unique artworks, Mina's simply oozes date night vibes. The neighbourhood restaurant can be found nestled in the heart of Belgravia sporting an outdoor terrace facing Motcomb Street, perfect for people-watching. Chow down on European plates, from truffle mafalde to a confit duck burger; there's also a tempting cocktail menu featuring a Picante De Mina, made with spicy mango and tequila, as well as a short Olive Ros Marinus.

Step into Brasserie Zedel in Soho, and you'll be transported to a 1930s Art Deco-style French brasserie. The atmosphere is as vibrant as the menu, which offers a tantalising array of modern European cuisine and cocktails. Drawing inspiration from the former Regent Palace Hotel, this restaurant is a gem in the newly developed Quadrant Three. The menu is a feast for the senses, with classic brasserie fare like the zesty lemon sole meunière, the succulent seared butterfly sardines, and the rich steak tartare.

It doesn't get more extravagant and romantic than The Ritz. This five-star hotel's restaurant offers Michelin-starred dining in a luxury setting, surrounded by dazzling chandeliers and ruby red seats. At its helm is executive chef John Williams MBE who whips up indulgent plates using the finest British ingredients. Choose either a five (£182) or seven-course (£202) tasting menu and prepare to revel in plates such as Dorset crab with crème fraiche and imperial caviar, plus sika deer with parsnip and juniper.  

For a date night that feels like a masterpiece, The Portrait Restaurant is your canvas. Nestled in the heart of the iconic National Portrait Gallery, this romantic haven offers an enchanting blend of Executive Chef Richard Corrigan's European and Irish influences, infused with his love for seasonal, local ingredients.

Perched above Trafalgar Square with sweeping views of the Houses of Parliament, the restaurant sets a dreamy stage for an intimate evening. Whether it's your first date or a celebration of many, this is the kind of place where love feels just a little more magical. Begin your culinary journey with starters like the delicate Jerusalem artichokes with comté custard, pickles, and marjoram, followed by homemade braised rabbit tagliatelle with girolles and pecorino to steamed Dover sole with wild mushroom and sea purslane.

With his Michelin star magic, Jason Atherton has turned Berners Tavern into one of the hottest spots in London. This restaurant oozes old-school charm and elegance with a menu that is a nod to traditional British eats, with top-notch ingredients and fancy cooking skills on display. Think sizzlin' Dingley Dell pork chops, Josper-grilled steaks, and the show-stopping baked Alaska.

What better place to have date night than at one of the most historical restaurants in the heart of London? Eatery and members club Quo Vadis was formerly a brothel and home to Karl Marx and now, thanks to the legendary Jeremy Lee, has been transformed into a dining hotspot, sporting crisp white tablecloths and stained glass windows. Red leather sofas offer a flirty edge to the venue and beckons you and your partner to slink in and enjoy a glass from its global wine list. Famed for its smoked eel sandwich, it's also the prime place to enjoy a hearty pie, hake, mussels and peas velouté, plus gooseberry crème brûlée for dessert.

Brunswick House is a stunning 18th-century, Grade II-listed Georgian mansion filled with antiques and botanical features. Jackson Boxer leads the award-winning, produce-led restaurant at the house which sees the main dining room transformed into a chandelier-clad haven. It's most certainly a special venue that oozes romantic energy, not to mention offers incredible food. The dinner menu sees the likes of chalk stream trout crudo with macadamia, horseradish and dill, plus white asparagus alongside fresh noodles and cured egg yolk available to utterly devour.

Instantly recognisable from its interiors, Sketch has become a bit of a bucket-list restaurant for London food enthusiasts and Instagrammers alike. But the picturesque venue offers more than just dreamy aesthetics and egg-pod loos; the menus here are pretty amazing too, with everything from afternoon teas to seven-course tasting feasts. The Michelin star Lecture Room & Library features food from head chef Daniel Stucki; enjoy three courses for £140 featuring the likes of Spanish black truffle, and grilled limousine veal fillet.