Whether you're planning a landmark dinner or simply looking for somewhere that rewards curiosity, these are the London restaurants that deliver on every level – exceptional food, considered interiors and the kind of unhurried hospitality that stays with you. Spanning Mayfair, Soho, Notting Hill, Knightsbridge and beyond, this is London dining at its most refined.

This London dining guide brings together the restaurants worth knowing right now from the storied New York-Italian institutions, the quietly brilliant Japanese omakase counters to the seafood-led bistros drawing on the flavours of coastal Spain and Greece. Our Head of Restaurants, Shyna Melwani shares a selection of her favourite places to dine in London.

Carbone

30 Grosvenor Sq, London W1K

Classic and glamorous, the vibe is steeped in Old-New York charm with theatrical flair, ready to deliver cinematic energy. Cuisine is unmistakably Italian-American, rich and nostalgic, evoking indulgent staples and iconic dishes. The buzz reflects Carbone’s celebrated status as one of Major Food Group’s most famous and sought-after restaurants.

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Shanghai me

Hilton on, 22 Park Ln, London W1K 1BE

Shanghai Me, with acclaimed restaurants in Dubai and Doha, blends the nostalgia of 1930s Shanghai with fresh Pan-Asian invention. Art Deco interiors set a glamorous yet intimate scene for creative dishes where Chinese tradition meets Japanese technique in a modern flavour journey.

Lilibet’s

17 Bruton St, London W1J 6QB

Lilibet’s offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience, blending classical elegance with playful touches of whimsy. The cuisine centres on exquisite seafood, with globally inspired flavours and artful presentation. Service is polished and personable, ensuring every visit feels graceful without pretension.

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Lita

7-9 Paddington St, London W1U 5QH

A Spanish-inspired bistro offering superb fish-based dishes in a farmhouse-style setting. The atmosphere is warm and rustic, evoking the charm of the Spanish countryside. It’s a place where traditional flavours meet modern culinary artistry.

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Zephyr

100 Portobello Rd, London W11 2QD

Inspired by Grecian culture, Zephyr offers a casual dining affair with Mediterranean flavours. The ambiance is breezy and contemporary, reflecting the spirit of the West wind. A downstairs bar adds to the relaxed, late-night vibe.

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Aki

1 Cavendish Square, London W1G 0LA

Aki presents a refined take on Japanese cuisine, blending seasonal ingredients with artful techniques. Set in a beautifully restored heritage space, the atmosphere exudes quiet elegance and creativity. Each dish balances precision and surprise, offering both comfort and inspiration.

La môme

Wilton Pl, London, SW1X 7RL

Bringing the French Riviera to the city, La Môme exudes elegance and charm. The cuisine is Mediterranean, served in a setting adorned with 1960s Riviera-inspired décor. It’s a celebration of joie de vivre and refined tastes.

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Bar Des Pres

41a S Audley St, London W1K 2PS

A chic fusion of French and Japanese cuisines, offering inventive dishes in a stylish setting. The atmosphere is cosmopolitan and vibrant, with a subterranean lounge for cocktails. Chef Cyril Lignac’s signature flair is evident throughout.

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Mount Street

First Floor, 41-43 Mount St, London W1K 2RX

Offering modern British cuisine with a nod to traditional London classics. The restaurant is adorned with an impressive art collection, creating a cultured dining atmosphere. It’s where culinary and artistic excellence converge.

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Mountain

16-18 Beak St, London W1F 9RD

A contemporary restaurant focusing on seasonal ingredients and bold flavours. The setting is minimalist yet inviting, encouraging a communal dining experience. It’s a culinary journey that celebrates simplicity and taste.

Bottarga

383 King’s Rd, London, SW10 0LP

A modern Mediterranean restaurant offering refined dishes with a focus on seafood. The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, perfect for leisurely dining. Expect a menu that celebrates fresh ingredients and bold flavours.

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The Dover

33 Dover St, London, W1S 4NF

A New York-Italian eatery blending classic hospitality with contemporary flair. The setting is sleek and sophisticated, ideal for intimate dinners. Menus feature Italian favourites crafted with precision and style.

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Igni

12 St George St, London W1S 2FB

An intimate and elegant atmosphere, centred around a dramatic open-fire kitchen that creates a warm, immersive dining experience. Its refined tasting menus showcase seasonal British produce, with a particular focus on seafood and ingredients cooked exclusively over wood fire. The cuisine combines precision, creativity and smoky depth.

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OMA

3 Bedale St, London SE1 9AL

A sense of serene sophistication, marrying the austerity of Greek island minimalism with vibrant Levantine and Mediterranean zest. The cuisine weaves elemental, sun-lit flavours of the coast – think minerality, salinity, fresh herbs and crispness.