From the eateries of Pall Mall to famous places like The Ritz, St James's is an area of London that oozes sophistication. Whether you fancy Italian fare, a rooftop haunt or somewhere on the Michelin Guide's radar, it's sure to deliver on the food front. So, without further ado, check out our top pick of restaurants in St James's.
At the Trafalgar Square end of St James's sits The Rooftop, which is perched at a hotel named after the famous landmark. Expect a range of small plates while you enjoy the view, such as watermelon 'sashimi' and cider-poached chorizo.
Make your way to Pall Mall and uncover Bardo St James', a high-end Italian boasting live music every evening and a sophisticated menu of seasonally changing dishes. Tuck into caramelised black cod or lobster tagliatelle here.
For an establishment that oozes sophistication, Quaglino's has no rival. Having entertained the likes of Evelyn Waugh and the Queen, this restaurant is truly an elegant affair. The deep red and shimmering gold interiors make it quite the catch too. And the menu? European classics continue the fancy trend.
On the first floor of The Cavendish Hotel London is Mayfair Lounge & Grill. Whether you want afternoon tea, have an important lunch meeting or are craving an iconic British dinner, this restaurant has you sorted with a menu of crowd-pleasing steaks and more.
This St James restaurant's menu offers great British classics like bangers 'n' mash and sirloin steak smothered in peppercorn sauce. To top it off? Davy's Wine Merchants have provided an impressive list of bottles to accompany.
In a historic building in the heart of St. James's, Claro brings the spirit of its iconic Tel Aviv restaurant to London. Founded by three close friends and with Head Chef Shadi Issawy leading the kitchen, its Mediterranean menu has a delicious Middle Eastern twist.
Its vibrant open kitchen serves up dishes packed with the finest British ingredients. We're talking smoked pink trout, lamb platter, gnocchi alla romana and plenty more besides.
Veuve Clicquot Courtyard at The American Bar and 2 other offers
Right in the heart of St James's and Mayfair, The Stafford London sits just a short walk from some of London's most legendary landmarks. Inside, its central restaurant is just as eye-catching.
The Michelin-starred Michael Caines at The Stafford serves up refined European dishes, packed with seasonal British ingredients. Think venison saddle, braised beef cheek and red mullet tartlet.
Restaurants on Jermyn Street don't get much better than Wiltons, which specialises in the freshest of seafood. An icon of British fine dining since 1742, it'll have you chowing down on meticulously prepared wild fish, oysters and game. In need of tapas-inspired plates? Head to sister venue Locket's.
When it comes to approachable fine dining, Scully is a name that you should know. The 8-course tasting menu is a must; we loved the arepa, baby poussin, house-made ice lollipop and caramelized white chocolate desserts. There's also an optional wine flight or non-alcoholic drinks pairing.
Looking for somewhere a bit more relaxed, but with stunning dishes? Café Murano fits the bill. Thanks to a focus on the cuisine of Northern Italy, it's making our guide to the best restaurants in St James. Also, the menu has plates such as chicken milanese and caper buttered plaice, alongside classic cocktails to accompany.
A list of the best restaurants in St James's isn't complete without The Ritz. Was there ever a more famous venue? We think not. You'll be treated to stellar service, stunning food and the most opulent of interiors when you take a special occasion trip here.
This St James's restaurant is a Mayfair institution, having gained a spot in the Michelin Guide. Its interiors are pretty stunning too, making the perfect setting for munching roast pigeon, pork belly and Dover sole.
Top off a trip to St James's in London by heading to Ikoyi, a restaurant dedicated to West African cooking. Signature dishes across the fine dining offering include smoked scotch bonnet plantain with raspberry dust and Jerusalem artichoke moin moin.
