One of the finest food capitals of the world, London flourishes with cafés, bakeries and restaurants offering everything from top-notch takeaways to exquisite sweet treats to multi-Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants that will blow you away. The sheer variety of cuisines available invites you to embark on a global journey without ever leaving the city with each neighbourhood boasting its own unique offerings that reflect London’s rich cultural diversity.
Whether it’s your first time or fiftieth time dining out in London, there’s always somewhere new to discover and a new favourite haunt to visit with your family, friends or loved one, whether you’re seeking a celebratory meal, a simple lunch or mid-week treat.
If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next wander around the city, read on as we dive into some must-visit spots that showcase everything from sweet pastries to exquisite fine dining in London.
The best bakeries
London’s bakeries are a haven for pastry lovers, with each one offering its own innovative twist on classic treats. Start your journey in Knightsbridge at Cedric Grolet at The Berkeley and queue up for sublime sweet treats from the top pâtissier at his first outpost outside of France. His delectable creations look almost too good to eat, but you’ll be glad you did when you take a bite into one of his pastries, which resemble flowers or fruit and are bursting with flavour.
Next up is Brick Lane’s Beigel Bake – open 24/7, this bustling bakery serves some of the best bagels in town. Try their salt beef bagel; it’s a local favourite that never disappoints. Forno is another must-visit, especially if you like Italian inspired bites.
For some top tier pastries, organic breads and sandwiches, head to The Dusty Knuckle Bakery in Dalston, while sourdough lovers should pay a visit to Fortitude Bakehouse in Bloomsbury. St. JOHN Bakery in Covent Garden and Bermondsey and Fabrique Bakery in Fitzrovia, Notting Hill, Covent Garden and High Holborn are also worth adding to your list.
Multi-Michelin-starred meals
To uncover the best restaurants in London, it’s always wise to take a look at the Michelin Guide. It’s common knowledge that Michelin-starred restaurants truly showcase the art of fine dining, with these hard-fought accolades proving that each and every restaurant listed is worthy of its diners travelling from afar to sample its culinary delights. Each restaurant in this prestigious category tells a story through its food and offers an experience you won’t want to miss when exploring London’s best gastronomic offerings.
London is blessed with six three-Michelin-starred restaurants – here’s a quick rundown on those offering ‘exceptional cuisine’ as the guide classifies, and if you’re lucky enough to get a table you’ll no doubt agree with the Michelin Guide’s recommendations here.
First up, and it’s Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, which offers an intimate atmosphere paired with innovative flavours rooted in French tradition. Another standout is Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester – an elegant venue, which boasts French cuisine that redefines sophistication. Each dish is a masterpiece, reflecting seasonal ingredients and expert techniques.
Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library, again, offers up modern French cuisine in a vibrant setting, while you can expect culinary perfection – flavour and presentation wise – at Restaurant Gordon Ramsey in Chelsea. CORE by Clare Smyth serves up modern British cuisine in Notting Hill, while nearby The Ledbury pairs exquisite ingredients in interesting combinations to produce some remarkable dishes.
Supreme Soho
There’s no denying that Soho is a culinary playground, buzzing with energy and creativity. The area boasts an array of unique dining experiences, making it perfect for those who appreciate creativity in their meals. Here, you’ll find a hefty mix of establishments that offer both a winning atmosphere and great victuals.
Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere at Dishoom Carnaby. This Bombay-style café serves up mouth-watering dishes that pay homage to India’s rich heritage in its 1960’s setting. For something more modern, try Bao. Known for its fluffy steamed buns filled with delicious meats and vegetables, it has quickly become an icon in Soho dining.
Experience fine dining at Hoppers, which specialises in Sri Lankan dishes. This gem offers unique flavours that transport your tastebuds across continents. And don’t miss out on the ever-popular Bob Bob Rocard Soho for French fare, Bocca di Lupo for high-end Italian regional dishes and Blacklock Soho for great steaks and cocktails.
Final thoughts
With such variety and quality available across the city, London’s food scene remains one of the most exciting places to explore fine dining options as well as casual eats from countries all over the world.
