10 Best Restaurants in London

Did you know some of London's best dining experiences are hidden in its eclectic neighborhoods rather than the city center? If you’re on the hunt for mouthwatering places for dinner in London, it can be tough to know where to start. Fear not! Below, we present the ultimate list of the best 10 restaurants in London.

From the coziest spots and candlelit corners to Sunday family roasts and elegant French brasseries serving robust red wines, The Big Smoke City has it all. Whether you are looking to munch on a hibachi grill at Mambow or a perfect blend of Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Persian at Etles, the best restaurants in London will never disappoint you. So, let’s whisk away into a paradise of flavors!

If you're looking to savor several different flavors, then Mambow is the place to be. It's a small but independent restaurant run by a truly talented chef-owner Abby Lee. This outstanding Malaysian eatery provides a perfect fusion of flavor-filled dishes in a relaxed atmosphere and it’s hard not to be mesmerized by the fine dining in London! And you surely don’t wanna miss out on their powerful hibachi grill catching the attention but it's the Lor Bak who's the one that truly shines, the bean curd rolls paired with the chili vinegar jam remain one of the best snacks in the city.

78 Lower Clapton Rd, Lower Clapton, London E5 0RN, United Kingdom

The Akoko offers a rich blend of bold flavors and traditional techniques, making itself among the best restaurants in London. The menu showcases dishes inspired by suburban West Africa, skillfully combining the freshest British ingredients with African spices, making the dining a culturally rich and unique experience. Enjoy your meal in a relaxing atmosphere and yes make sure to pair your meal—expect extremely moreish jollof rice, lobster tail hunks, and scotch bonnet soup—with a tasty glass of wine.

21 Berners St, London W1T 3LP, United Kingdom

In search of French food? Head straight to Bouchan Racine, a London restaurant that has transformed throughout the years. The restaurant has a classic vibe, keeping things laid-back and cozy, and it really takes care of its staff, too. The menu includes a variety of staples, with the jambon de noir de Bigorre stealing a spotlight. This cured meat, sourced from a breed of black pigs, is made with a smoky and tender flavor that melts in the mouth. And don’t miss out on a rabbit wrapped in smoked bacon topped with beans and buttered sauce—it’s a must-try during your visit.

Upstairs, 66 Cowcross St, London EC1M 6BP, United Kingdom

The Speedboat Bar may be a newcomer to Chinatown, but it’s already made a quite splash! Bright and lively, this spot serves up fun Thai dishes inspired by the bustling canteens of Bangkok's Chinatown. Don’t miss out on crunchy sweetcorn fritters that fill up with flavor and zingy chicken skins sprinkled with zaep seasoning. And be sure to order the Tom Yam Mama noodles loaded with squid, pork, and prawns, all swimming in a rich, creamy broth. This dish packs some serious big-bowl energy!

30 Rupert St, London W1D 6DL, United Kingdom

Another cultural addition is the Etles, providing a great fusion of Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Persian. This cozy little restaurant is run by a talented family with a passion for cooking. As you step in, you're surrounded by a warm and welcoming atmosphere with walls adorned with hangings. Make sure to try out the traditional soft hand-pulled noodles of German spaetzle which are topped with a delicate garnish of sesame seeds.

235 Hoe St, London E17 9PP, United Kingdom

Renowned for being both intense and sophisticated, St John is a Michelin-starred and is a popular London restaurant in the neighborhood. Their cuisine is famous for its delicate and rich flavor and what steals the show is their cuttlefish and onions. You absolutely have to try it! This dish reveals itself in a flavorful ink-based sauce with a dash of mint, perfectly complemented by horseradish and tender cooked tongue. Save some place for the delight of the day, the Hendersons cocktail, a mix of creme de menthe and Fernet Branca, or you can order any other drink that is up to your liking from the attached bar.

26 St John St, Barbican, London EC1M 4AY, United Kingdom

If you’re lucky enough to step into Dim Sum Duck, make sure to savor every moment as if it’s your last and dive into the delectable offerings. Start your meal with the plump har gau (prawn dumplings) and the generously sized xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). And you can’t leave without trying the roasted duck, typically served with ho fun (flat noodles) and topped with classic minced pork.

124 King's Cross Rd, London WC1X 9DS, United Kingdom

Launched in October 2022, The St Bars includes sheepskin-draped chairs that make up a cozy separation from the kitchen, defining the mood for your Scandi-style dining experience. Kick-start with a tender piece of pig neck, grilled to perfection so that it melts in your mouth. Next, indulge in a delightful four-snack course, boasting a small Tunsworth cheese tartlet sprinkled with pickled walnut ketchup, loaded with robust flavor. Another must-try is the East End seafood cocktail, elegantly served in an oyster shell, filled with eel and generously topped with caviar—simply impeccable!

Rachelle Canteen has established itself as one of the best restaurants in London, popular for its meals complemented by exciting ingredients. With a zesty vintage touch, the menu is inspired by British classics, including dishes like parsnip soup, devilled kidneys, and lamb chops with lentils. If you choose the veal brisket as your starter, your taste buds will be treated with delicately coiled slices with pickled red cabbage and a dollop of horseradish. For the main course, make sure to try out their braised rabbit with fennel and black rice, a dish that has a richness of all its own.

16 Playground Gardens, London E2 7FA, United Kingdom

As one of the grandest restaurants in town, the Brasserie Zedel warmly welcomes both locals and tourists. This wonderfully democratic bistro pairs live jazz with French 75s and snails in garlic and parsley butter for an unbeatable experience. Enjoy dressed, shredded carrots followed by the steak haché in peppercorn sauce with French fries—arguably Soho’s most iconic meal!

20 Sherwood St, London W1F 7ED, United Kingdom