24 of London's fanciest restaurants to add to your bucket-list

Finding the best fancy restaurants in London is no small feat. As a city that plays host to a relentless cycle of world-class culinary talent, the list of high-end restaurants in London is constantly evolving. From the arrival of boundary-pushing new concepts to the enduring legacy of the old guard, the capital’s upscale restaurant scene has never been more vibrant.

But what defines fine dining in London today? For some, it’s the classic allure of fancy dining in London - starched white tablecloths, impeccable silver service, and buckets of vintage Champagne on ice. For others, the best fine dining London has to offer is found in more contemporary, trendy spaces, where the focus is on pared-back aesthetics and innovation.v

The beauty of eating out in the capital is the sheer diversity on offer. You’ll find world famous, Michelin-starred eateries sitting alongside high-end street food specialists and luxury bistros. Whether you’re looking for a blow-out birthday celebration or a glamorous restaurant in London for a sophisticated Monday night meal, there’s a table for every mood. Michelin heavyweights are the backbone of ‘bells and whistles’ fine dining in London, and London’s huge collection of Michelin-starred restaurants remains the gold standard if you’re looking to treat someone (or just yourself) to something special.

That said, we’ve also included a number of other restaurants that we think go the extra mile. Increasingly, some of the best fine dining in London is found in more laid-back settings - places that manage to retain an air of being special while serving soulful, expert-led comfort food.

At SquareMeal, we spend nearly every night of the week reviewing the city's latest openings to help you find your next foodie fix. From world-leading Indian fine dining to top-class Italian plates, these fancy London restaurants represent the absolute pinnacle of the city’s food scene.

The English Grill at The Rubens at the Palace, Victoria

What: Located in a hotel that was once part of Buckingham Palace’s grounds, it is no surprise that The English Grill offers their customers the royal treatment. Several dishes are served tableside, for an immersive journey into theatrical dining, and bubbles are served from a dedicated champagne trolley. Chef Ben Kelliher builds his menu around classic British dishes, expertly grilled meats and seasonal produce, to create a cuisine that is straight-forwardly delicious. You can even book a lesson with the chef to learn how he makes his famous beef wellington.
Best for: Living out your royal fantasy
Where: 39 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 0PS
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at The Rubens at the Palace
Book now: The English Grill at The Rubens at the Palace

Isabel, Mayfair

What: Perched on the edge of Mayfair’s fashion district, Isabel is a masterclass in Art Deco opulence. Jaw-dropping interiors feature macassar wood panelling and a shimmering gold-mirrored ceiling - palatial enough to attract a legion of London-based celebs. The menu is equally decadent, featuring lux Mediterranean plates like Champagne risotto topped with gold leaf. From high-end dining to agave cocktails at the stunning bar, Isabel defines pure Mayfair glamour.
Best for: Bold, brash, gold-tinted glamour
Where: 26 Albemarle Street, W1S 4HY
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Isabel
Book now: Isabel

Da Terra, Bethnal Green

What: Da Terra offers a masterclass in minimalist sophistication from within the historic Bethnal Green Town Hall. This two Michelin-starred sanctuary pairs soaring ceilings and understated elegance with Rafael Cagali’s vibrant, Italy-meets-Brazil tasting menus. Service is polished yet personable, guiding guests through artistic courses that celebrate luxury ingredients. It’s a refined, high-concept destination for those who appreciate culinary innovation within a beautifully grand, light-filled setting.
Best for: Understated elegance with top-class cooking
Where: 8 Patriot Square, E2 9NF
Book now: Da Terra

Restaurant Story, London Bridge

What: Tom Sellers’ two-Michelin-starred flagship has always stood out for unique, narrative-driven dining, but following a major refurbishment, the sleek, minimalist space also looks the part too. Each chapter of the menu tells a tale through artful cookery and outstanding ingredients, complemented by impeccable, storytelling service. It’s a sophisticated haven for those seeking something deeply personable and memorable.
Best for: Milestone celebrations
Where: 199 Tooley Street, SE1 2JX
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Restaurant Story
Book now: Restaurant Story

Park Chinois, Mayfair

What: Transporting guests to 1930s Shanghai, Park Chinois is the grand dame of Mayfair glam. The interiors are a riot of gold leaf and red velvet, providing a theatrical backdrop for world-class live cabaret and jazz, whilst the menu elevates Chinese cuisine with signature Duck de Chine and exquisite dim sum. Every detail, from the decor to the legendary bathrooms, oozes old-world sophistication and unapologetic glamour. If that’s not fancy enough for your next night out, we don’t know what is.
Best for: Elegant Chinese dining and live cabaret
Where: 17 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EA
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Park Chinois
Book now: Park Chinois

Mistress of Mayfair, St. James's

What: Mistress of Mayfair evokes the sultry charm of a Parisian boudoir. This underground gem dazzles with crimson velvet, ornate chandeliers, and candlelit corners, creating an atmosphere of clandestine luxury. The menu celebrates decadence through French-Mediterranean delicacies, including oysters, caviar, and lobster. Whether dining on fine seafood or sipping cocktails in the plush basement lounge, it offers a theatrical, ultra-glamorous escape in the heart of St James’s.
Best for: Sultry late-night dates
Where: 48-49 St. James's Street, SW1A 1JT
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Mistress of Mayfair
Book now: Mistress of Mayfair

Ormer Mayfair at Flemings Mayfair

What: Tucked away inside the prestigious Flemings Mayfair hotel, Ormer is the epitome of classic London luxury. The dining room charms with its dark wood panelling, plush velvet seating and bronze accents, creating an intimate, high-society feel. Service is charmingly old-school, the wine list is gargantuan, and Sofian Msetfi’s cooking has some Old World finesse about it - sophisticated and precise, championing top quality British ingredients.
Best for: A sophisticated Mayfair rendezvous
Where: Flemings Mayfair Hotel, Half Moon Street, W1J 7BH
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Ormer Mayfair
Book now: Ormer Mayfair at Flemings Mayfair

Muse by Tom Aikens, Belgravia

What: Muse’s charming Belgravia townhouse is a sanctuary of culinary storytelling. With only 25 covers, the atmosphere is exclusive, featuring elegant marble counters and soft, ambient lighting. Tom Aikens’ nostalgic tasting menus are masterpieces of technical skill, delivered with attentive, bespoke service, often from Aikens and his chefs. This is high-concept dining at its most personal and refined - a glamorous, boutique experience for the most discerning of palates.
Best for: Intimate, story-led dining
Where: 38 Groom Place, SW1X 7BA
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Muse by Tom Aikens
Book now: Muse by Tom Aikens

Frog by Adam Handling, Covent Garden

What: Frog by Adam Handling is the most luxurious of the Scottish chef’s restaurants, highly regarded for its vibrant, high-energy take on fine dining. The theatrical open kitchen provides a front-row seat to the fireworks, and the menu launches straight out of the gate with signature snacks. The food is ultra-decadent, and every detail is crafted with flair. This is Handling’s stylish, luxurious, high-impact cooking at its very best.
Best for: Open kitchen theatre
Where: 34-35 Southampton Street, WC2E 7HG
Book now: Frog by Adam Handling

The Ritz, Green Park

What: If you’re talking fancy, you need to be mentioning The Ritz. This London institution has long been synonymous with all that is classy, luxurious and opulent, and this has not faltered over the years. Sat in what just may be one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the world, you will be served a selection of classically prepared French dishes, all elevated to the highest degree. The famed Beef Wellington is served tableside and flavoured with truffle. For the full theatrical dining experience, opt for the arts de la table menu which includes the wellington, alongside the rest of their most popular items.  
Best for: Celebration meals
Where: 150 Piccadilly, W1J 9BR
Book now: The Ritz

Row on 5, Mayfair

What: Jason Atherton’s Row on 5 brings high-octane culinary theatre to the heart of Mayfair. This multi-level dining destination centers on an interactive kitchen counter, where guests witness the precision of world-class chefs, led brilliantly by former Ritz chef Spencer Metzger. Row on 5 inhabits an old-school restaurant space where nothing is too much - Atherton offers the chance to buy rare wines from his personal collection, the menu is packed with the most luxurious ingredients you’ll see anywhere, and the team will get your coat dry cleaned whilst you’re dining, all as part of the service.
Best for: Front-row kitchen theatre and high-energy Mayfair dining
Where: 5 Savile Row, W1S 3PB
Book now: Row on 5

Galvin La Chapelle, Spitalfields

What: If you’re looking for Michelin star food with a setting to match, Galvin La Chapelle should be at the top of your list. Set in a former school in the heart of Shoreditch, a meal at Galvin is a treat for all the senses. Sip on a glass of bubbles delivered to you by the Champagne trolley before sampling their French inspired menu. A meal here does not come cheap, though the top-quality service and stunning surroundings are sure to prevent you from feeling short-changed.  
Best for: Elegant date nights
Where: 35 Spital Square, E1 6DY
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Galvin La Chapelle
Book now: Galvin La Chapelle

Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay, Knightsbridge

What: One of the cornerstones of fancy fine dining in London, Pétrus is a temple to modern French gastronomy. The striking circular dining room, anchored by an iconic glass-encased wine cellar, radiates sophistication. Michelin-starred dishes are executed with flawless technique, paired with some of the world’s finest wine vintages. Polished and prestigious, Pétrus is still a quintessential destination for those seeking an ultra-exclusive and classically luxurious London dining experience.
Best for: Serious wine connoisseurs
Where: 1 Kinnerton Street, SW1X 8EA
Book now: Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay

Jamavar, Mayfair

What: After finding huge culinary success across India, Jamavar opened their first UK location on Mayfair’s exclusive Mount Street. This Michelin star restaurant offers a fine dining approach to Indian food, taking inspiration from regional cuisines across the country. Begin with a selection of their small dishes, like the lobster idli sambhar or narangi prawns, before making your way through their selection of tandoor grilled meats. Make sure to leave space for their delicious curries though, you won’t want to leave without sampling the malvani prawn curry.
Best for: Group celebrations
Where: 8 Mount Street, W1K 3NF
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Jamavar
Book now: Jamavar

Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, Park Lane

What: With three Michelin stars and a spot in one of London’s most desirable hotels, this is the sort of bucket list destination many have been dying to dine at for years. If you can get a table, you’ll find yourself amongst the magic of a glamorous dining room and the most refined French food to be enjoyed anywhere in London. There’s only one menu option here and it’s the tasting menu – an opportunity to fully relax in the safe hands of a chefs brigade who have expertly paired dishes to seamlessly flow into one another throughout the evening.
Best for: Date nights
Where: 53 Park Lane, W1K 1QA
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester
Book now: Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester

The Delaunay, Covent Garden

Why: Part of Wolseley Hospitality (which includes other favourites like The Wolseley Piccadilly and Brasserie Zedel), The Delaunay has a romantic old-world feel to it. Modelled on the grand cafes of Mittel-Europe, both the décor and the menu are classic down to a T. If lobster-filled rolls or chicken schnitzels don’t do it for you, how about plates of confit duck or bowls full or moules? Earlier in the day you’ll have your pick of brunch favourites like breakfast baps, eggs Benedict or pancakes. Oh, and the iconic dining room is utterly stunning.
Best for: Breakfast
Where: 55 Aldwych, WC2B 4BB
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at The Delaunay
Book now: The Delaunay

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, Chelsea

What: Once-in-a-lifetime stuff, this three Michelin starred restaurant from Gordon Ramsay is an obvious choice for special occasion dining when you’re after some serious wow factor. The widely spaced tables in their elegant surrounds are in such high demand that you’ll have to secure your spot months in advance (yes, even for a mid-week lunch). Your perseverance will pay off when you’re tucking into the refined French cookery that has made this restaurant a classic. Expect lavish ingredients like lobster, langoustine, scallops, truffle and caviar to pepper the menu (although also expect to pay the price of such things, dinner here doesn’t come cheap).
Best for: Celebratory special occasions
Where: 68 Royal Hospital Road, SW3 4HP
Book now: Restaurant Gordon Ramsay

MiMi Mei Fair, Mayfair

What: For gorgeous interiors coupled with theatrical dining, you can’t get much better than MiMi Mei Fair. Opened in 2021 Samyukta Nair (the brains behind Bombay Bustle and Jamavar) MiMi is in fact her mythical empress and the restaurant acts as her imaginary character’s palace. Palatial is the word for rooms bedecked in hand painted silk wallpaper and fringed lamps, while the menu of please-all Chinese dishes is sure to be enjoyed by mixed groups. Start with colourful baskets full of steamed dumplings and the signature house special – the apple wood fire roasted duck. This centrepiece is carved tableside and delivered with all kinds of sides and sauces that far outdo your typical duck pancake spread.
Best for: Group gatherings
Where: 55 Curzon Street, W1J 8PG
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at MiMi Mei Fair
Book now: MiMi Mei Fair

Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill, Mayfair

What: A classic jewel in London’s culinary crown, Bentley’s appeal has transcended the ages. Having first opened over a hundred years ago its timeless appeal lies in its clean-cut classic seafood serves. Our favourite spot is a seat at one of the marble topped bars and our order – if you’re asking – is half a dozen oysters followed by the team’s inimitable fish pie with haddock, prawns and salmon. For traditional seafood dishes, you simply cannot beat Bentley’s. Don’t skip the cocktails, the bar staff are just as talented as the kitchen team.
Best for: After work drinks that turn into dinner
Where: 1-15 Swallow Street, W1B 4DG
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill
Book now: Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill

sketch: Lecture Room & Library, Mayfair

What: You don’t unintentionally pick up three Michelin stars, and internationally acclaimed Pierre Gagnaire has the intent needed to collect this trio of glittering prizes. His restaurants across the world hold a clutch of these celestial badges, and his London outpost serves his signature experimental French food. He’s a godfather of fusion cuisine and his tasting menus take diners on a surprising journey through dishes such as buckwheat ravioli with caramelised onion, Parmesan shavings, toasted buckwheat seeds and Hoegaarden foam; and grilled Isle of Skye scallop corolla glazed in carrot, honey and argan oil reduction in a swiss chard velouté, with sea herbs, buckwheat seeds and blanched celery.
Best for: Impressing clients
Where: 9 Conduit Street, W1S 2XG
Planning something special? Discover private hire options at Sketch
Book now: sketch: Lecture Room & Library

The Goring Dining Room, Belgravia

What: This historic Belgravia hotel returned after a facelift in 2024. While the surroundings have been updated, the same old-school, high-quality, silver service remains unchanged. Start your meal with caviar and lemon blinis, washed down with a crisp glass of Champagne, before moving on to one of their delicious mains, perhaps the lobster omelette, or beef Wellington will take your fancy. The Goring Dining Room specialises in modern twists on classic dishes, made using the best of British produce, making for mouthwatering dishes you will want to have again and again.
Best for: Family dinners
Where: 15 Beeston Place, SW1W 0JW
Book now: The Goring Dining Room

HIDE, Green Park

What: Spanning three floors of a stunning Mayfair townhouse, Michelin-starred HIDE pairs tranquil Green Park views with organic, light-filled interiors. Ascend the iconic oak staircase for refined tasting and a la carte menus, or head to the Ground floor and subterranean Bar Below for more relaxed vibes. Chef Josh Angus delivers innovative, seasonal British plates, perfectly complemented by one of the city's most extensive wine lists - in fact, partner wine supplier Hedonism will even courier over a special bottle for you from their own stash if you order it. This isn’t a cheap experience, but the service is exemplary and there’s no turn-over time on your table (meaning you can stay all evening), which frankly we think you can’t put a price on.
Best for: The fanciest breakfast in town
Where: 85 Piccadilly, W1J 7NB
Book now: HIDE

A.Wong, Pimlico

What: Regularly cited as one of the UK’s best Chinese chefs, Andrew Wong’s eponymous restaurant was born as the reinvention of his family’s business Kym’s which was first opened in 1985 by his parents. Having earned two Michelin stars (the first Chinese restaurant in the UK to do so), Wong’s detail-driven approach has resulted in an opulent dining room, accomplished service and a line-up of wonderfully intricate dumplings and dishes. We’d recommend the full tasting menu for a true reflection of the team’s talents.
Best for: Birthdays
Where: 70 Wilton Road, SW1V 1DE
Book now: A.Wong

Core by Clare Smyth, Notting Hill

What: Spearheaded by the legendary Clare Smyth, Core is Notting Hill’s triple-Michelin-starred powerhouse. Eschewing formal tablecloths for a relaxed, plant-filled elegance, Smyth elevates humble British produce into gastronomic art. Expect sustainable, innovative tasting menus featuring iconic dishes like the ‘Core-teaser’ and scallop tartare with sea vegetable consomme. With world-class service, an extensive French-led wine list, and a refined yet unstuffy atmosphere, it remains one of the capital's most essential fine-dining experiences.
Best for: Laidback fine dining
Where: 92 Kensington Park Road, W11 2PN
Book now: Core by Clare Smyth

Ready for another challenge? How about working your way through London's most Instagrammable restaurants? Or, join us as we narrow down the 11 most famous restaurants in London.