Portrait at The National Gallery is a stunning private dining option for central London gatherings, with exclusive venue hire available and a capacity of up to 150 guests.
Set above the National Portrait Gallery, the restaurant has an incredible view looking out across Trafalgar Square and the ceremonial flags of some of London’s best-known institutions. Charing Cross and Leicester Square are both close by, making it particularly convenient for client dinners, corporate gatherings and celebrations where guests may be travelling from different parts of London.
For larger events, the entire restaurant can be hired exclusively. The space accommodates up to 100 guests seated or 150 standing, with breakfast available from 8am, lunch from midday and dinner from 6pm. That gives organisers plenty of flexibility, whether the plan is a canape reception, networking event or full three-course dinner with paired wines. Smaller groups can opt for the semi-private dining area, tucked beyond the open kitchen. Seating between 14 and 32 guests, it offers a little separation without losing the atmosphere of the main restaurant.
Food is catered for in-house, and the team have created a selection of seasonal menus, from set options to canapes or bowl food. Examples of dishes might include Bentley’s bread basket and cultured butter to start, followed by bitterleaf salad with Parma ham, Parmesan and anchovy dressing, smoked salmon with fennel and horseradish, or roast Jerusalem artichokes with Comte custard. Mains might include beef fillet with potato crisp, parsnip puree and peppercorn sauce, Dover sole with wild mushroom and sea purslane, or ricotta and pumpkin ravioli, accompanied by seasonal sides to share. Dessert keeps things classic with chocolate fondant and honeycomb, creme brulee, or lemon sorbet with candied orange and shortbread.