London is a treasure trove for luxury dining and this year has seen a huge resurgence in tasting menus across the capital. Now, more than ever, high-end restaurants are moving away from à la carte offerings in favour of chef’s tables and curated tasting experiences.
This shift, especially among venues that must balance sustainability and seasonality, allows chefs to create menus that showcase ingredients at their peak, adapting to seasonal changes and wavering food costs, while still ensuring the best flavours. Whether you’re in the mood for the refined elegance of Japanese omakase, the vibrant fusion of Peruvian and Asian flavours, or the dramatic flair of a high-altitude dinner, there’s a tasting menu in London to match.
Here’s a round-up of some of the city’s most captivating experiences, guaranteed to offer an unforgettable meal.
The Ukiyo Room at The Aubrey
Earlier this year, a new and elevated omakase experience was added to The Aubrey in the form of The Ukiyo Room, inspired by ‘The Floating World’ (Ukiyo), an imagined Japanese universe of hedonism and extravagance. This intimate tasting journey offers ten courses that celebrate the Japanese spirit of omotenashi, or selfless hospitality.
Head sushi chef Miho Sato presents a menu inspired by Japan’s 72 micro seasons, featuring both beloved classics and innovative new dishes. Guests could start with an A4 Kagoshima wagyu sando adorned with caviar and gold leaf, followed by an indulgent Alaskan king crab leg with kimuchi, for example. The culinary adventure concludes with a whimsical dessert, such as the Mt. Fuji, combining elderflower mousse, poached peach, candy floss, and milk ice cream.
Pachamama East
Pachamama East in Shoreditch is the sister to the original Marylebone location, where Peruvian and Japanese culinary traditions come together in a dynamic fusion.
The menu is a colourful journey through small plates organised by ‘soil’, ‘land’, and ‘sea’, all perfect for sharing. Highlights include the irresistible tapioca marshmallows paired with a rich ocopa black mint and peanut sauce, and the miso-cured carrot served over black quinoa with Peruvian kimchi. For a main course, the ‘Duck on Rice’ offers tender duck on a bed of dashi-infused white rice, while the yuzu ice cream is a refreshing finish.
Ekstedt at The Yard
At Ekstedt at The Yard, the newly introduced Chef’s Table offers an immersive experience right inside the kitchen. Guests are served by head chef Theresse Andersson and can witness the preparation of signature dishes cooked over coals. The nine-course tasting menu is a seasonal delight, featuring dishes that highlight the primal elegance of wood-fired cooking. Whether booked as a shared table or a private gathering, this experience is a must for those who appreciate culinary craftsmanship, with each diner receiving a bespoke Ekstedt gift upon departure.
Los Mochis
For a fusion of Mexican and Japanese culinary traditions, head to Los Mochis in Notting Hill, or its outpost in the City. This pan-Pacific restaurant combines fine dining with street food sensibilities, creating a unique menu that blurs the boundaries between these two culinary traditions.
Los Mochis is a standout spot for bold flavours and creative presentations that challenge traditional dining norms. The yakiniku taco, consisting of grass-fed sesame-soy steak with chilli-ginger honey and micro-herbs, as well as the ube panna cotta are both highlights.
BiBi
BiBi in London offers a constantly evolving menu of pan-Indian cuisine that is perfect for those seeking an intimate, immersive experience. Bar seating puts couples and groups right at the heart of the action, with a front-row view of executive chef Chet Sharma and his team. Sharma’s frequent menu changes reflect a commitment to seasonality and innovation, while the personal touch at the bar brings extra depth to the dining experience.
Expect thoughtfully crafted dishes like galouti kebab with roomali roti, native lobster with sesame-peanut salan, and scallop ceviche with lime-infused nimbu pani, plus unique snacks and surprises tailored to your tastes. At BiBi, dining alone feels anything but solitary – it’s a one-on-one journey through the layered flavours and vibrant textures of modern Indian cuisine.
Fish and Bubbles
Fish and Bubbles offers a playful yet sophisticated take on Italian seafood dining. The tasting concept here is their Fritto Misto al Metro – a metre-long board brimming with a selection of fried seafood, perfect for sharing. The Tagliere di Mare offers an equally impressive array of small dishes, including tuna tartare, swordfish caponata, and Sicilian panelle. Pair these with a glass of prosecco or a classic Negroni for an afternoon of indulgence. For those seeking variety, the crudi di mare and Italian-inspired poké bowls provide fresh and delicious options.
Zephyr
Named after the Greek God of the west wind, Zephyr brings a touch of Grecian culture to West London with its refined dining experience. The menu features modern mezze-style dishes, with chargrilled meats and fish taking centre stage.
The staggered dining approach encourages a leisurely pace, allowing the dishes to truly shine. Be sure to savour wild prawns and the lamb cutlets, as well as the moreish smoked aubergine spread. Downstairs, a late-night bar adds a lively energy, making Zephyr a versatile spot for both meals and mingling.
Bōkan 37
For those seeking a dinner with a view, look no further than Canary Wharf’s Bōkan 37, which offers a sky-high fine dining adventure.
Perched above London Novotel, this restaurant serves a seven-course tasting menu that celebrates British produce with a modern European twist. Executive chef Robert Manea’s ever-evolving and seasonal creations, such as cod cheek with ras el hanout and pork shoulder with spicy chorizo, are as artful as they are delicious. While the panoramic views of London’s skyline provide a breath-taking backdrop.
Coya Mayfair
COYA Mayfair infuses the spirit of Peru into London’s Mayfair; it’s an immersive Latin American experience, ideal for social gatherings or special celebrations.
The tasting menu is crafted to transport guests through Peru’s rich culinary landscape, featuring signature dishes perfect for sharing, like crocantes con guacamole – a blend of creamy avocado with crispy corn tortillas and aji amarillo – and anticucho de res, tender beef fillet marinated with ají panca and coriander. Highlights also include the empanadas and soft, flaky Chilean seabass, made even more delicious in COYA’s opulent dining room. Round off the meal with a platter of delicious desserts, like warm gooey churros, dragon fruit and house ice creams.
