London’s dining scene evolves at lightning speed, with visionary chefs pushing boundaries while honoring timeless traditions. From Michelin-starred icons to hidden neighborhood gems, the capital offers a culinary adventure like no other.

Whether you’re after intimate fine dining or lively casual spots, these carefully curated best restaurants in London showcase the city’s unmatched gastronomic excellence. Each venue has been selected for its exceptional cuisine, unique atmosphere, and role in shaping London’s reputation as a global food capital.

Exploring the best restaurants in London is more than just eating—it’s one of the most rewarding things to do in London, where culture and creativity meet on every plate.

1. Miga – Modern Korean Excellence

This family-run Korean restaurant in Hackney has captured the attention of London’s most discerning food lovers. Chef-owner’s traditional techniques meet contemporary presentation in dishes like their signature yughwe—a bold beef tartare elevated with crisp Asian pear batons and golden egg yolk. The soy-braised short ribs and pan-fried pork belly in apple-mustard sauce showcase the restaurant’s ability to balance familiar flavors with innovative execution.

• Location: Mare Street, Hackney
• Must-try: Yughwe beef tartare
• Price range: Starters £9–16, mains around £20

2. City Social – Sky-High Sophistication

Perched high above London’s financial district, City Social offers breathtaking views of The Gherkin and St Paul’s Cathedral alongside Jason Atherton’s exceptional modern European cuisine. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the urban landscape while the kitchen delivers consistently brilliant dishes that match the spectacular setting.

• Location: City of London
• Highlight: Panoramic views with modern cuisine
• Perfect for: Special occasions and business dining

3. Endo at The Rotunda – Sushi in the Clouds

This Michelin-starred destination on the eighth floor of the former BBC TV Centre delivers an unforgettable “sushi in the clouds” experience. Chef-Owner Endo Kazutoshi combines supreme technical skill with warm hospitality, creating an intimate omakase experience that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients.

• Location: White City
• Experience: Chef’s counter dining with skyline views
• Reservation: Essential, book early

4. Le Pont de la Tour – Thames-side Icon

Few restaurants can claim such an enviable position as Le Pont de la Tour, situated directly opposite Tower Bridge on the South Bank. The French-influenced menu perfectly complements the restaurant’s classical elegance, while the riverside terrace offers one of London’s most romantic dining settings.

• Location: Butler’s Wharf
• Signature: Tower Bridge views
• Cuisine: French classics with British influences

5. Speedboat Bar – Bangkok Comes to Soho

This vibrant Thai restaurant transports diners straight to Bangkok’s bustling streets through its authentic décor and explosive flavors. The tom yam mama noodles and fried whole mackerel in red curry exemplify the kitchen’s commitment to genuine Thai street food culture, while the neon-lit atmosphere creates an immersive dining adventure.

• Location: Chinatown
• Atmosphere: Authentic street food experience
• Specialty: Tom yam mama noodles

6. Kioku by Endo – Terrace Dining Perfection

Located atop the historic Raffles hotel, Kioku offers spectacular terrace views across St James’s Park with Big Ben visible from the sushi counter. This second venture from Endo Kazutoshi combines the intimacy of traditional sushi preparation with one of London’s most impressive dining rooms.

• Location: Old War Office building
• Setting: Iconic historic building
• Style: Traditional sushi, modern touch

7. Oma – Greek-Mediterranean Fusion

David Carter’s latest venture takes Greek cuisine on an exciting journey through the Mediterranean and beyond. Located in the heart of Borough Market, Oma serves inventive dishes that span from the Ionian islands to the Levant, with standout items including their renowned salt cod XO with labneh.

• Location: Borough Market
• Concept: Greek-inspired, Mediterranean twist
• Must-order: Salt cod XO

8. Restaurant Gordon Ramsay High – 60th Floor Dining

This sky-high restaurant showcases London from an entirely new perspective, with counter seating designed specifically to maximize the panoramic city views. The 60th-floor location provides a dramatic backdrop for Gordon Ramsay’s refined cuisine featuring luxury ingredients and precise technique.

• Location: City skyscraper
• Feature: Counter seating facing the skyline
• Style: Contemporary, luxurious

9. Sam’s Riverside – Thames Views & Fresh Seafood

Housed in the former BBC Riverside Studios, Sam’s Riverside capitalizes on its waterside location with an impressive selection of seafood and shellfish. The restaurant’s terrace provides lovely Thames views, while the menu celebrates the connection between location and cuisine through exceptional oyster selections and seasonal catches.

• Location: Riverside near Hammersmith
• Specialty: Fresh seafood and oysters
• Setting: Relaxed riverside dining

10. Plates – Michelin-Starred Plant-Based

The UK’s first Michelin-starred vegan restaurant continues to challenge preconceptions about plant-based dining. Chef Kirk Haworth’s tasting menu features innovative dishes like caramelized lion’s mane mushroom with cauliflower cream, proving that vegan cuisine can achieve the highest culinary standards.

• Location: Shoreditch
• Achievement: First UK vegan Michelin star
• Format: Seasonal tasting menus

Planning Your London Dining Adventure

These ten spots showcase the diversity and creativity that make London a global food destination. From plant-based innovation to timeless classics, the best restaurants in London offer something for every palate.

Many require reservations—especially Michelin-starred venues—so plan ahead with Forest Travel, your luxury travel agency. Lunch menus can also be a great way to enjoy these culinary gems.

Exploring the best restaurants in London is one of the top things to do in London, combining flavor, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, these restaurants prove that dining here is never just about food—it’s about discovering the soul of the city.