From classic charm to modern elegance: Explore six famous London dining destinations
- The Ivy
Location: Convent Garden, 1-5 West Street, London WC2H 9NQ England
- Price: $$$-$$$$
- Cuisines: European, British
- Ambiance: Chic and sophisticated
The Ivy Restaurant is a popular dining spot in London, especially for celebrities. It has welcomed many famous faces over the years such as Tom Cruise, Angela Jolie, David Beckham, and Victoria Beckham. Among the Ivy chain of restaurants in the UK, the Ivy restaurant on West Street in London’s Covent Garden is the most original and famous location. It is known for its delicious food, extensive wine list and beautiful location – a 19th-century building in the heart of Covent Garden with art-deco-inspired interiors that create an amazing ambiance for both casual dinners and special occasions.
The restaurant offers a delightful selection of dishes, including their signature crispy duck salad, shepherd’s pie, grilled fish, and truffle pasta. Desserts like the chocolate bombe provide a memorable finish to the meal. Every dish is a touch of modern British, with a mix of European tastes.
- The Ritz:
Location: Mayfair 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR England
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisine: Modern British
- Ambiance: Luxurious, Historic
Nestled within the iconic Ritz Hotel opened in 1906, the Ritz restaurant is a perfect dining spot for those seeking classic British cuisine together with a fine dining experience. For over a century, the Ritz has been a popular spot for notable figures such as royalty and Hollywood stars, including English playwright Noel Coward, who frequently dined there during the 1920s and 1930s. Coward even wrote the song “Children of The Ritz” inspired by the hotel.
From the moment guests step through the opulent doors, they are immersed in a world where glittering chandeliers and grand mirrors set a perfect backdrop for a refined meal. The opulent dining room is a masterpiece of architectural design, inspired by Louis XVI-style architecture. Live piano music plays softly in the background, creating an elegant yet intimate setting. The Ritz is a great place to immerse yourself in classic British cuisine and architecture.
The menu mainly focuses on classic British cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes include the “Cornish Lamb” paired with garden vegetables, and the “Dover Sole,” expertly filleted tableside. Each dish is crafted with precision, elevating traditional British flavours with contemporary flair.
- Scott’s:
Location: Mayfair 20 Mount Street, London W1K 2HE England
- Price: $$$
- Cuisine: Seafood, European, British
- Ambiance: classic and cozy
Scott’s is a classic seafood restaurant where traditional British influences and modernity blend in both the architecture and the food. With a long history of serving seafood since 1851, Scott’s is featured in the Michelin Guide as one of the best seafood restaurants in London. Kate Moss, James Corden and Liz Hurley are all fans of Scott’s, and even King Charles and Queen Camilla have dined here.
Originally an oyster warehouse, Scott’s offers a refined dining experience with wonderful dishes for seafood lovers. Atlantic Halibut, Dover Sole, Lobster and Roasted Shellfish are the must-try dishes. The fresh, high-quality oysters, lobster, king crab, and caviar are served beside a raw bar. Their Dover sole, prepared on the bone, is a must-try, while the roasted monkfish with wild garlic and capers shows a perfect balance of flavour. The menu also offers a selection of vegetarian options and standard steak for those who are not fond of seafood.
- The Wolseley:
Location: Mayfair 160 Piccadilly St. James’s, London W1J 9EB England
- Price: $$-$$$
- Cuisine: Austrian, European, British
- Meals: all-day
The Wolseley is well-known for its elegant atmosphere and its delicious food, promising to offer customers an exceptional dining experience. It’s located in the Mayfair district – a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The food at The Wolseley is excellent. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, from classic British food to European cuisine. The roasted salmon with asparagus and hollandaise sauce, the beef Wellington, and the shepherd’s pie are some of the popular and must-try dishes. The portions are generous, and the food is beautifully presented.
- OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie:
Location: South Bank OXO Tower Wharf, Barge House Street South Bank, London SE1 9PH England
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisine: Contemporary British, European
- Special: Bar, Wine Bar
A unique dining experience with breathtaking views of London’s skyline, including the iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral is what OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie offers the customers. Whether it’s a date night, an anniversary, or simply indulging in gourmet dining with a view, OXO Tower remains a top choice for those seeking both culinary and visual delight.
The menu is rich with fresh seasonal ingredients. The standout dishes include the tender lamb rump, served with perfectly cooked vegetables, and the seafood risotto, bursting with vibrant flavours of the ocean. The bar, with its creative cocktails and extensive wine list, perfectly complements the entire dining experience.
- Rita’s:
Location: Soho 49 Lexington St, Soho, London W1F 9AP
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: American
- Ambiance: Casual and stylish
Rita’s in London delivers a fresh perspective on modern British cuisine, infused with international flair. The restaurant’s eclectic menu features standout dishes such as the succulent grilled lamb, indulgent miso aubergine, and their much-loved fried chicken sandwich. By combining bold, inventive flavours with locally sourced ingredients, every meal at Rita’s becomes a memorable experience.
Conveniently located in central London, Rita’s is easily accessible and draws a vibrant crowd. Whether you’re planning a night out or looking for a casual dinner spot, Rita’s is the perfect choice for an enjoyable meal in the city.
