Best restaurants for groups London: Where to go for your next group dining event

The Beatles famously once sang about getting by with a little help from their friends. Well, considering the rise of sharing-style menus in London over the last decade, it would seem that The Fab Four clearly had a crystal ball. Although we are reluctant to admit it (we have no problem polishing off a meal on our own most of the time), it is true that sometimes the food burden is too great for one or two people to bear alone. That's where the best London restaurants for groups come in.

If you find yourself perusing a restaurant’s menu online and realise that it is time to call in some gastronomic reinforcements, a night of group dining in the capital is the perfect solution. Although heading out with friends doesn’t have to mean opting for a family-style meal, there are considerable perks to dining out in a group - namely that you can try quite a lot of the menu between you. In London, the best restaurants for groups range from venues that have large dining rooms complete with comfy booth seating or long banquettes, through to actual private dining spaces where you can enjoy a meal with friends or loved ones in total privacy. If you're looking for restaurants in London for big groups, many of these offer exclusive private hire, so you can make the whole restaurant your own for an evening. 

To help you find London's best group dining restaurants for you, we have divided our list into key neighbourhoods. If you are flexible on location, scroll through our best London restaurants for groups list, or if you have a particular area in mind, use the quick links below to skip straight to your preferred section. We have also included a mixture of restaurants ideal for small groups and those occasions when a private room is required, so there’s really something for everyone.

There's also a nice range of cuisines and price brackets, from fancy sushi to more relaxed pizza joints. That way, you'll be able to match the restaurant to what you're in the mood for (and how near payday is).

Best restaurants for groups in North London

Towards the north of London, you'll find a little more breathing room. Expect spacious restaurants with a buzzy atmosphere.

Dishoom, King’s Cross

What: Known for its Bombay cafe-inspired interiors, and vibrant menus of authentic Indian fare, a private dinner at Dishoom is always a good idea. The King’s Cross location boasts a variety of versatile spaces, from the 14-person chef’s table to the large family room that can seat up to 70. Enjoy a couple of tipples, and plenty of plates from the group feast menu.
Capacity: Up to 70
Where: 5 Stable Street, N1C 4AB; 7 Boundary Street, E2 7JE
Book now: Dishoom King's Cross; Dishoom Shoreditch

Rotunda, King's Cross

What: This bar, restaurant and private dining room in the heart of King's Cross is an ideal spot for groups. Sip cocktails on the terrace before tucking into the delicious British fare on offer, along with an extensive wine list to peruse. The private room seats up to 30, with a semi-private room available for 40, so there's plenty of space for you and your group.
Capacity: Up to 40
Where: 90 York Way, N1 9AG
Book now: Rotunda

Best restaurants for groups in East London

Heading east to the busy offices of the City of London and laid-back edginess of Shoreditch, you'll find plenty of great spots for groups.

Mallow, Canary Wharf

What: Known for vibrant and innovative plant-based dining, Mallow stands as a great option for internationally inspired plates that work well for sharing, though we wouldn’t blame you for keeping it all to yourself! It’s a gorgeous dining room, with comfortable banquette seating, and a joyful pink, blue and tan colour scheme. Bank this one for birthdays, corporate dinners, and get-togethers with friends.
Capacity: Up to 50
Where: 12 Park Drive, Wood Wharf, E14 9ZW
Book now: Mallow Canary Wharf

1776 at 1 Lombard, City of London

What: Tucked away behind the popular 1 Lombard restaurant, you’ll find 1776, an impressive private dining room with high ceilings, chandelier lighting, and a central table. Menus here reflect the seasons, offering set courses informed by British classics and elevated by pure skill. With great transport links nearby, a sophisticated atmosphere, and flexible menus to choose from, this one’s a real treat for corporate groups.
Capacity: Up to 50
Where: 1 Lombard Street, EC3V 9AA
Book now: 1776 at 1 Lombard Street

SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower, City of London

What: It’s hard to get over the impact of this private dining space. Decked out with plush seating, curved lines, and blessed with incredible views, there’s nowhere quite like SUSHISAMBA ’s private dining room in Heron Tower. And that disbelief isn’t just surface level, group dining here offers an exploration of Japanese, Peruvian, and Brazilian fusion, covering all the classics and more.
Capacity: Up to 30
Where: 110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY
Book now: SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower

Duck & Waffle, City of London

What: By hosting your group dinner at Duck & Waffle, you have the opportunity to eat in the highest private dining room in the country. Floor-to-ceiling windows and mirrored walls ensure you can enjoy all of the great views on offer. Group-dining sharing menus for brunch, lunch or dinner are available, created by executive chef Maxwell Terheggen.
Capacity: Up to 20
Where: 110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY
Book now: Duck & Waffle

Los Mochis, City of London

What: Honing in on Japanese and Mexican fusion dishes, Los Mochis is quickly becoming one of London’s best-known restaurants. It’s not so hard to see why; the atmosphere here is decidedly indulgent, but there’s a modern feel to it, thanks (in part) to impressive views over London. While there are larger tables available within the restaurant itself, the private dining room, which seats 22, adds to this appeal.
Capacity: Up to 60
Where: 9th Floor, 100 Liverpool Street, EC2M 2AT; 2-4 Farmer Street, W8 7SN
Book now: Los Mochis London City; Los Mochis Notting Hill

Best restaurants for groups in West London

Moving to the west, everything gets rather boujie. Expect lavish spreads and stunning interiors galore.

Ayllu, Paddington

What: Ayllu blends Peruvian and Japanese influences across a slick menu that includes contemporary small plates, sushi and colourful cocktails. We love the moody dining room, perfect for groups of 25, not to mention the location which is handily just a few minutes walk from Paddington, and situated right on the very serene Paddington Basin. Head out to the al fresco Terrace for an idyllic outdoor dinner.
Capacity: Up to 36
Where: 25 Sheldon Square, W2 6EY
Book now: Ayllu

Mosimann's, Belgravia

What: Taking a prime spot in the heart of Belgravia, Mosimann's sits in the upper echelons of London's private dining scene. Boasting spaces with capacities ranging from two to 110, this elegant space is home to cooking fit for royalty - literally. One only needs to read a testimonial or two to get an impression of just how excellent the food, wine and service supplied by Mosimann's really is. 
Capacity: Up to 50
Where: 11B West Halkin Street, SW1X 8JL
Book now: Mosimann's

The Cadogan Arms, Chelsea

What: Beautifully refurbished but still every bit a buzzy neighbourhood pub, The Cadogan Arms delivers everything you could want from a boozer - delicious pub grub, great atmosphere and an excellent drinks selection. Groups can hire the Private Dining Room or The Rose Room for gatherings of up to 40 and choose from bespoke feasting menus.  
Capacity: Up to 40
Where: 298 King's Road, SW3 5UG
Book now: The Cadogan Arms

Riding House, Fitzrovia

What: Riding House is ultra-accessible, not just because of a plum location on Great Titchfield Street, but also thanks to the menu, which is packed with internationally-inspired comfort food. The plush private dining room hosts up to 14 guests, too, or there’s a large sharing table in the dining room for up to 21. Larger groups can opt for exclusive hire of the main dining room too.
Capacity: Up to 55
Where: 43-51 Great Titchfield Street, W1W 7PQ; and various other locations
Book now: Riding House Fitzrovia; Riding House Bloomsbury; Rail House Victoria

Best restaurants for groups in Central London

Central London is packed with incredible restaurants, and most of them are very experienced at hosting groups for special occasions. You're not short of options here, but these are some of our favourites. 

The Maine, Mayfair

What: Looking for a private dining room in Mayfair? Few restaurants deliver extravagance quite like The Maine with its Hollywood glamour and extravagant chandeliers. Large groups can take over the main Brasserie, but for more intimate celebrations you'll be better suited in the 20-person Tavern or the light-filled Drawing Room which can host 30. Expect menus packed full of fresh seafood and prime cuts straight from the grill.
Capacity: Up to 40
Where: 6 Medici Courtyard, W1S 1JY
Book now: The Maine Mayfair

Isabel, Mayfair

What: For a private dining room full of Mayfair glamour, Isabel is an obvious choice. Upstairs, the golden-lit main dining room makes quite the impression, whilst the downstairs Dragon Room offers a moody, low-lit feel that’s perfect for groups of 40. Menus showcase modern European cooking with a Latin flair, with an extensive collection of classic and bespoke cocktails to enjoy too.
Capacity: Up to 40
Where: 26 Albemarle Street, W1S 4HY
Book now: Isabel

Swingers, Marylebone

What: Nothing says fun like mini golf, and Swingers has nailed the experience by providing a brilliant food and drink offering, with the latter even delivered to you whilst you’re out on the course. There are lots of private areas to retire to after you’re putted out, where you can order food from the likes of Pizza Pilgrims, Patty & Bun and Breddos Tacos.
Capacity: Up to 50
Where: 15 John Prince's Street, W1G 0AB
Book now: Swingers West End

Nessa, Soho

What: With a modern British menu, gorgeous earthy-toned interiors, several private dining rooms and a dedicated feasting table for groups between nine and 14 guests, Nessa covers all the bases. Naturally, there’s a feasting menu to match, offering a selection of plates to share between the table, a choice of mains, and dessert, all at an incredibly reasonable price point.
Capacity: Up to 30
Where: 86 Brewer Street, W1F 9UB
Book now: Nessa

Burger & Lobster, Various Locations

What: From semi private spaces that feel the buzz of the main restaurant, to long banquet-style tables for 12, Burger & Lobster's central London sites are a versatile option for a private dinner. Specialising in surf and turf, the menu offers something for everyone. If you're a seafood stan, go for a delicious bowl of lobster ravioli, or if smash burgers are your thing, try the short rib burger with barbecue sauce. Can't decide? The combo meals are the best of both worlds.
Capacity: Various
Where: Various locations
Book now: Burger & Lobster Soho, Burger & Lobster Threadneedle Street, Burger & Lobster Oxford Circus

Bombay Bustle, Mayfair

What: Few restaurants in London do Indian comfort food with the style and panache of Bombay Bustle. The restaurant captures the essence of Mumbai through its unique design, which is inspired by the old first-class railway coaches of India. Smaller groups can grab a seat in the bar, or why not grab the semi-private table in The Carriage, which sits right in the heart of the action.
Capacity: Up to 44
Where: 29 Maddox Street, W1S 2PA
Book now: Bombay Bustle

The Pem, Westminster

What: A fine dining restaurant named for Emily Wilding Davidson (also known as 'Pem'), The Pem is the flagship restaurant at the prestigious Conrad London Hotel. Plush velvet seating and a menu packed full of classic dishes with a contemporary twist make this restaurant an elegant yet fun setting for your next group dinner, with restaurant dining and private spaces available.
Capacity: Up to 20
Where: 22-28 Broadway, SW1H 0BH
Book now: The Pem

Albert’s Schloss, Leicester Square

What: The massive space once occupied by the famous Trocadero is now Albert’s Schloss London, an enormous alpine-style dining room and drinking hall, which comes complete with plenty of entertainment. The location couldn’t be more central, and Albert’s Schloss has everything needed to entertain a big group, from beer steins to a menu full of easy-going comfort food.
Capacity: Up to 54
Where: 20-24 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7EU
Book now: Albert’s Schloss

Bocconcino, Soho

What: A favourite with celebs in the capital, Bocconcino Soho is the second London outpost from the Italian group (following a glamorous Mayfair branch) and frankly, we love it just as much. Expect smart terrazzo tiled floors and stunning marble counters, all bathed in the warm amber glow of overhead lighting. It’s a gorgeous space, and an equally beautiful private dining space can be all yours, with space for up to 23 guests.
Capacity: Up to 25
Where: 58-59 Great Marlborough Street, W1F 7JY
Book now: Bocconcino Soho

Hard Rock Cafe, Piccadilly Circus

What: Arguably one of the most famous franchises in the world, Hard Rock Cafe is a great place for lively dinners and bespoke events. The entire venue can seat up to 650, while the smaller Legends Room seats up to 40. The latter features music memorabilia, customised lighting and a projector screen. 
Capacity: Up to 50
Where: Criterion Building, 225-229 Piccadilly, W1J 9HR
Book now: Hard Rock Cafe

Best restaurants for groups in South London

In South London, things are a bit more relaxed. You'll find buzzy bars and trendy eateries aplenty.

El Pastor, Battersea and Soho

What: Known for vibrant Mexican fare and incredible tacos, El Pastor Battersea comes with a fabulous range of spaces (both private and semi-private) for group dining south of the river. Dine with up to 24 in the glass-walled private dining room with a view of the Thames, take over booths in the main restaurant, or pitch up in the covered and heated terrace. Alternatively, if you’re hunting for a more central location, El Pastor Soho has you covered.
Capacity: Up to 50
Where: Circus West Village, Battersea Power Station, Unit 21-22, SW11 8EZ; 66-70 Brewer Street, W1F 9UP
Book now: El Pastor Battersea and El Pastor Soho

Hawksmoor, Borough

What: Most of Hawksmoor’s grand locations have private dining spaces attached, and even if you’re sitting in the buzz of the main dining room, this seasoned veteran makes a fantastic place to go out with a group. A variety of set menus at different price points are loaded with fan-favourite dishes too, making the ordering process a doddle.
Capacity: Up to 20
Where: 16 Winchester Walk, London SE1 9AQ; and various other locations
Book now: Hawksmoor Borough; Hawksmoor Guildhall; Hawksmoor Wood Wharf; Hawksmoor Spitalfields

Pizarro, Bermondsey

What: For a group dinner in a picture-perfect setting, head to Pizarro in Bermondsey, a stylish restaurant with a Spanish menu. Groups of up to six can enjoy the a la carte menu in the main restaurant. Larger groups can be seated in the beautiful semi-private dining space with chic wooden panels and blue and white ceramic tiling.
Capacity: Up to 10
Where: 194 Bermondsey Street, SE1 3TQ
Book now: Pizarro

If you are planning a summer event, don't miss our guide to the best outdoor private dining rooms in London. Or for something slightly larger scale, check out our guides to the best large summer party venues in London, and London's best garden party venues.