37 fun places to eat in London: From immersive experiences through to themed restaurants

There’s no shortage of fun places to eat in London. The city is chock full of entertainment restaurants and daring dining experiences that will tickle the fancy of tourists, and even locals who have “seen it all”. There are exciting but fleeting pop-ups you won’t want to miss and truly out-there concepts that will prompt queues around the block. From Monopoly-themed eateries to full-on circus show extravaganzas, there are endless fun restaurants in London that are worth checking out. 

We’ve seen these kinds of restaurants and venues only grow in popularity, causing a creative explosion in the capital. It’s not just table football or darts either; these are full-on immersive experiences. You and your group might even end up winning some prizes, or better still, some free food!

If you think you’ve seen it all, ask yourself these questions. Have you ever eaten in pitch-blackness? Or karaoke-ed after a feast of bao buns? Or hit a hole-in-one to win your mates free shots? If you’ve done all three, there are still plenty of others on the list. If you haven’t, then you’ll have even more options to explore. 

From the truly incredible and Instagram-worthy to the downright unusual and bizarre, grab a spot at one of the best party restaurants in London. In our books, it doesn’t even have to be a celebration - there’s no law against going for a crazy night of cabaret on a Thursday, after all.

We’ve whittled down the best restaurants with entertainment in London, so you can make your way to one of our recommendations down below. The list has been sorted into categories depending on your mood and preferences; we’ve got casual, classy, fancy and more. Your experiences at London restaurants with entertainment are about to seriously get levelled up.

The best places for dinner and a show in London

Who doesn't love a spot of entertainment with their meal? Especially when it involves mind-blowing circus performances and exciting cabaret shows. London plays host to some of the best acts and performers in the world and combined with some smashing food, you're in store for a great evening. 

The Maine, Mayfair

Why: Looking for a restaurant with guaranteed entertainment every night? You’ll want to check out The Maine, where everything from jazz vocalists to Cuban artists to impromptu Burlesque dancers have been known to grace its stages. All entertainment is held in The Brasserie, a glamorous subterranean space dressed in crystal chandeliers and Hollywood regency sofas. The food is excellent, too. Think old-school, indulgent brasserie classics, from a ‘colossal’ shrimp cocktail to large cut steaks.
Where: 6 Medici Courtyard, W1S 1JY
Want to make it a party? Check out venue hire options at The Maine
Book now: The Maine

Punk Royale, Mayfair

Why: Originally starting in Stockholm, Punk Royale is a unique concept centred around a 20+ course dining experience. Sounds straightforward, right? Not quite. Expect virtually pitch-black lighting and glow-in-the-dark artwork and an evening that goes through separate sensory stages. Your multi-course extravaganza begins with an ice-cold shot of vodka and a caviar bump (practically a fistful of the stuff). Then the team confiscate your phones, so you can sit back and properly enjoy the show. On our visit, this included waiters slapping neon ‘pesc’, ‘no alc’ and ‘no foie’ labels onto guests with preferences, a mini course hand-fed to each guest, a banging playlist, gloves as ‘cutlery’, sweet wine syringes, plus plenty of smoke machine and laser action. We won't give too much away, but come with an open mind for this wild, rollicking ride. 
Where: 6 Sackville Street, W1S 3DD
Book now: Punk Royale

Park Chinois, Mayfair

Why: Frivolous and most definitely fun, Park Chinois is one of the best places to combine both dinner and a show in one, luxurious location. Smack bang in the heart of Mayfair, this high-end Chinese restaurant is a split-level affair. Upstairs you’ll find Salon de Chine, where you can enjoy a meal of dim sum and Chinese classics to the sound of live music from the grand piano on the central stage, which is typically accompanied by a female vocalist. Downstairs is where things get even more lively, with nightly cabaret shows weaving amongst diners and drinkers. 
Where: 17 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EA
Want to make it a party? Check out private dining options at Park Chinois
Book now: Park Chinois

The Magician’s Table, Southwark

Why: A completely unique experience in London, The Magician’s Table is an immersive journey that follows the fictional story of magician Dieter Roterberg. Guests all play a part in his memorial service, and also present are a number of his friends, played by some of the most acclaimed Magic Circle magicians in the business. Table service is on hand to deliver suitably clever cocktails as you gasp at some unforgettable magic tricks and illusions. If you're looking for interactive restaurants in London, this one is not to be missed. 
Where: 49 Tanner Street, SE1 3PL
Book now: The Magician’s Table

Inca, Soho

Why: Everything at Inca is inspired by the colourful energy of Latin America, including the decor, cocktails, food, music and performances. Sip on exciting cocktails, tuck into delicious food and enjoy the show. Dishes pull from all over South America, so expect ceviche, tacos and asado galore. Performances, meanwhile, include DJs, dancers, acrobats and more, so strap in!
Where: 8-9 Argyll Street, London, W1F 7TF
Want to make it a party? Check out venue hire options at Inca
Book now: Inca

London Cabaret Club, Holborn

Why: London Cabaret Club is great for group bookings, for those special occasions that you want to mark with a memorable experience. This cabaret venue promises an immersive theatre experience, led by a star-studded cast of West End regulars who will take you on a journey back to the roaring twenties, Gatsby-style. The food is good too, with set menus boasting several courses of scrumptious modern European fare.
Where: Victoria House, Bloomsbury Square, WC1B 4DA
Book now: London Cabaret Club

The Courtesan, Brixton

Why: Not only does The Courtesan feature a tantalising line-up of dumplings - scrumptiously filled with wasabi king prawns, mushroom, deep-fried sea bass, and plenty more – but it also plays host to some mesmerising Burlesque performances. Courtesan Lates pays homage to global influences as much as the eclectic food does, so be prepared for a heady swirl of fun.
Where: 69 Atlantic Road, SW9 8PU
Book now: The Courtesan

Haus of Cabaret, City

Why: Haus of Cabaret is a glamourous club dressed in vintage speakeasy era décor, where you can let yourself be immersed in the world of opulence and burlesque. This 1920s Parisian-style cabaret venue is great for birthday parties, and the themes for the shows change regularly, ranging from Gatsby to Broadway. Order from the list of tempting cocktails and tuck into a globally inspired menu. Proud also has sites in Embankment and Brighton. 
Where: 1 Mark Lane, EC3R 7AH
Book now: Haus of Cabaret

The best restaurants with live music in London

London has a thriving music scene and an equally exciting restaurant industry, so why not get the best of both worlds and dine at one of these places, while being entertained by some top-quality musicians? These live music venues will put you in a great mood, and if you want even more where that came from, check out our ultimate pick of the best pubs and bars for live music in London. 

Albert's Schloss, Piccadilly

Why: This giant Bavarian beer house is set right in the heart of London, just a minute’s walk from Piccadilly Circus. Descend the stairs and you’ll find raucous fun happening all over the shop, with a meaty menu going down a storm alongside a foot-stomping oompah band soundtrack. There are other regular performers too, including Albert’s signature Kunst Kabaret, and musical extravaganzas to accompany the very popular Sunday roast.
Where: 20-24 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7EU
Want to make it a party? Check out venue hire options at Albert's Schloss
Book now: Albert's Schloss

House of Louie, Covent Garden

Why: Even before you venture upstairs to the bar – which is where the most fun happens, naturally – the restaurant’s energy is infectious. Stop in for dinner before drinks in the packed-out, buzzy dining room where the kitchen turns out dishes with a Creole heart. Think Louisiana crab cakes, barbecued lobster in a Creole butter sauce or a punchy seafood and sausage gumbo. On the next floor up you’ll find the immaculately decked out bar with its beautiful design details and brigade of knowledgeable staff. Every Tuesday there’s a jazz night which sees some of London’s brightest musicians gather around the piano to entertain guests with classic New Orleans style jazz on a range of instruments. If you didn’t manage to eat pre-music, there’s also a light bites menu here.
Where: 13-15 West Street, WC2H 9NE
Book now: House of Louie

Big Easy, Various locations

Why: Big Easy might be known for its authentic Texas BBQ cooking, but live music is very much the heart and soul of this American restaurant chain. From rock and blues to jazz and soul, you’ll find a variety of genres being served at each of its locations – both local and international artists alike. Settle in for a night of great music while you tuck in to one of its big-flavour BBQ platters, all served up with ‘Bar.B.Q’ beans and house slaw, and a signature cocktail or two.
Where: Various locations
Book now: Big Easy Canary Wharf; Big Easy Covent Garden; Big Easy Chelsea; Big Easy Bluewater; Big Easy Westfield Stratford

Lost Society, Battersea

Why: This immersive party spot combines decadent art deco interiors, creative cocktails and roof-raising DJs for the ultimate night out in south west London. Lost Society throws some seriously epic events come the weekend, from Disco Brunches to ‘Lost Made Me Do It’ Saturday nights, all of which feature DJs on the decks to keep the vibes going all night long. Right now, it’s running a series of Brazilian nights every Sunday from 5pm, with live bands playing everything from Samba to Sertanejo, Pagode and Bossa Nova.
Where: 339 Battersea Park Road, SW11 4LS
Book now: Lost Society

The Piano Works, Farringdon and West End

Why: The Piano Works promises a jam-packed schedule of fun at its two locations, where you can expect to be wowed by live musicians, pianists, and bands. Each night is themed and the cocktail lists are based on the top ten songs requested by the audience, making for a vibrant atmosphere, frenetic with energy. The food menu, from burgers to bar food to set menus, will keep you properly fuelled as the night goes on.
Where: 113-117 Farringdon Road, ECR1 3BX; 47 Whitcomb Street, WC2H 7DH
Book now: The Piano Works Farringdon; The Piano Works West End

Blues Kitchen, Brixton, Shoreditch, and Camden

Why: Come hang out at the Blues Kitchen for a hearty dose of American soul food. Dine on classic southern dishes such as shrimp jambalaya and beef brisket, and wash it down with a strong bourbon – there are over 100 to choose from. Once your stomach has been lined, it’s time for some night train soul tunes or check out the blues gospel for a feel-good Sunday brunch.
Where: 40 Acre Lane, SW2 5SP; 134-146 Curtain Road, EC2A 3AR; 111-113 Camden High Street, NW1 7JN
Book now: Blues Kitchen Brixton; Blues Kitchen Shoreditch; Blues Kitchen Camden

Ayllu, Paddington

Why: Fusion is always fun, and at Ayllu you're getting an exciting combination of Peruvian and Japanese. With a great menu centred around sharing food with your table, you're in for a lively and certainly delicious dining experience. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Ayllu hosts live DJ sessions, so if you're after a fun dinner with tunes then this one might be for you.
Where: 25 Sheldon Square, W2 6EY
Want to make it a party? Check out private dining options at Ayllu
Book now: Ayllu

Chino Latino, Lambeth

Why: From the glitzy light installation that greets you as you enter, to the array of flaming and smoking dishes that arrive at the table, Chino Latino knows how to keep things light and fun. A giant floor to ceiling panoramic glass wall lets you gaze out onto the river as you wait for cocktails and courses to arrive, and there's often some live singing, which switches between classic crooners and light-hearted swing. 
Where: Park Plaza Riverbank London, 18 Albert Embankment, SE1 7TJ
Book now: Chino Latino

The Exhibit, Balham

Why: The Exhibit is somewhat famous amongst Balham locals for being a great night out, so let it be known for those further afield! This place is worth the trip. Even the website says it’s a ‘damn good time’. You can book a table in the main restaurant for everything from bottomless brunch to happy hour cocktails and pizza. You’ll also find tasty sharing plates and indulgent burgers for something a bit more chill. If you're after an extra dose of energy with your meal, the team are constantly throwing events and themed nights, from live music to sports screenings and fun quiz nights. Take your pick!
Where: 12 Balham Station Road, SW12 9SG
Book now: The Exhibit

The best activity bars and restaurants in London

Got a competitive streak? Uncover your hidden talents at London's best activity bars. Impress your friends with your mad ping pong skills or kick it up a notch and belt out a tune at karaoke. Why not up the stakes even further, and have the loser buy dinner for everyone? Proceed with caution, fun ahead.

Grosvenor Casino The Victoria, Marylebone

Why: For those looking to pair a glamorous evening meal with a little entertainment, Grosvenor Casino The Victoria offers the best of both worlds. Kick off the occasion with a sophisticated dinner featuring globally-inspired dishes such as fresh oysters with citrus-soy dressing, fragrant coastal prawn curry, and za'atar-spiced sea bass. Then head down to the gaming floor and try your luck at the casino games while soaking up the buzzy atmosphere. Alternatively, switch things around and save your dinner for after gaming, when you'll be able to revel in your winnings - or commiserate over your losses.
Where: 150-162 Edgware Road, W2 2DT
Book now: Grosvenor Casino The Victoria

F1® Arcade, City of London 

Why: Formula 1 fans and foodies alike are in for a treat with this unique F1® racing experience in the City of London. Guests can race their mates on one of 60 full-motion racing simulators, before heading over to the bar to grab a drink from its reimagined classic cocktails list, with creations such as Pole Position and Slipstreamer on the menu. There’s plenty of food options to suit everyone too, from sharing plates to tacos, flatbreads, burgers and more. Fancy booking F1 Arcade for your next event? You can do that too thanks to a huge range of food, drink and activity packages.  
Where: 1 New Change, EC4M 9AF 
Book now: F1® Arcade

TOCA Social at the O2, Greenwich

Why: Score big at this high-energy interactive football experience in the O2, where groups of up 12 can put their shooting skills to the test in their own bookable box. Not a footie fan? TOCA offers a range of games for everyone, from foosball tables to arcades, selfie booths and more. Work up an appetite playing against your mates, then refuel with smashed burgers, chicken wings, and Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, washed down with slushy cocktails. Want to eat while you play? There are picky bites like sliders and bao buns to keep you fuelled.
Where: Peninsula Square, Greenwich, SE10 0DX
Book now: TOCA Social at the O2

Lucky Voice, Various locations

Why: Lucky Voice is without a doubt a karaoke spot first and foremost, but whether you’re looking to belt your heart out with your mates or not, it’s also one of the best late-night cocktail bars in town, with tasty food menus and a club-like energy making it a guaranteed fun night out. These guys also offer bottomless brunch events, quiz nights, cocktail making classes and more.
Where: Various locations
Want to make it a party? Check out venue hire options at Holborn and Liverpool Street
Book now: Lucky Voice Soho; Lucky Voice Holborn; Lucky Voice Liverpool Street; Lucky Voice Waterloo

BAO, Various locations

Why: Did you know that five out of BAO's seven restaurants boast state-of-the-art karaoke rooms? The brand's iconic KTV rooms (Taiwanese ‘karaoke TV’) are sleek, atmospheric spaces for between two and 23 people (depending on which site you go for), where you can choose from over 300,000 songs ranging from Western hits to popular Asian tunes. Guests are charged a £35 minimum spend each, which is pretty good going for award-winning food and drink with two hours of karaoke. The KTV set menu can be ordered across all BAO's karaoke rooms, which includes the likes of classic pork belly and daikon mini baos, lamb dumplings with soy sauce, and Taiwanese fried chicken. To drink, choose from large-serve cocktail jugs (think Umeshu Negronis and Cucumber Spritz') and beer towers. 
Where: Various locations
Book now: BAO Shoreditch; BAO Borough; BAO Battersea; BAO City; BAO Marylebone

Swingers, City and West End

Why: Crazy golf courses aren't typically famed for their food. Yet Swingers has really surprised us with the canny move of choosing much-loved favourites as culinary residents. The West End branch offers a pretty stellar trio of burgers from Patty & Bun, tacos from Breddos and pizza by Pizza Pilgrims. Chow down then hit the course for nine holes of seriously good fun. Cocktails here are on-point too, with the chance to win free shots with a hole in one. 
Where: 15 John Prince’s Street, W1G 0AB
Want to make it a party? Check out venue hire options at Swingers
Book now: Swingers

Bunga 90, Covent Garden

Why: Bunga 90 is a one-stop-shop for fun and good food. This retro 90s interactive cocktail bar is designed to look like a retro video rental store - complete with shelves of dusty VHS tapes, Pepsi vending machines and old-school Super Nintendo game consoles. The multi-sensory experience features a huge range of activities, from jumbo arcade games to pinball machines, karaoke and themed brunch events. It's a choose-your-own-adventure night out! Don't worry, there's plenty of good grub to keep you fuelled, but super-nostalgic cocktails and American-style pizzas are the main draw. 
Where: 167 Drury Lane, WC2B 5PG
Book now: Bunga Bunga 90

Flight Club, Shoreditch, Bloomsbury, and Victoria

Why: Make your way to Flight Club for a round of darts and plates of smashing food you’ll want to fight over. There’s Korean sesame pork, fried mac 'n' cheese croquettes, salmon ceviche tacos, and more to chow down on for those moments when you’re not exploring the two floors of darts heaven. Players of all levels are welcome to join in on the fun, although there is a signature trophy cocktail up for grabs for high scorers!
Where: 2a Worship Street, EC2A 2AH
Book now: Flight Club Shoreditch

The best themed restaurants in London

Novel concepts often get a bad rap but these ones are actually worth the hype. Come for the food, stay for the pure escapism! From Gatsby to gaming, there are so many different themes to choose from.

Little Scarlet Door, Soho

Why: Styled on a boujie flat share, the Little Scarlet Door is a fantastic restaurant and bar hidden in plain sight just moments from Tottenham Court Road. Head down for a party every night of the week: with fabulous happy hours, killer DJ nights, and plenty of space to dance your socks off. Menus are geared towards cocktails and sharers, although there are a few light bites and nibbles to keep hunger pangs at bay. Don’t miss its legendary bottomless brunch, available weekends, with board games to boot.
Where: 6-8 All Saints Road, W11 1HH
Want to make it a party? Check out venue hire options at Little Scarlet Door
Book now: Little Scarlet Door

Red Dog Saloon, Various locations

Why: Inspired by Southern smokehouses and old-school saloons, this BBQ joint and burger restaurant has sites all over London, and is an ever-reliable spot for birthday celebrations, group dinners, and late-night feasts. It’s immersive as hell, with wood-panelled walls, industrial lighting and even animal skulls channeling a rustic Western vibe. Get stuck into ultra-indulgent fare cooked over hot coals – we're talking hickory-smoked meats, barbecue sandwiches and a whacky burger list with names like the Gooey Louie filled with mozzarella sticks, American cheese and Red Dog sauce. Yeehaw!
Where: Various locations
Book now: Red Dog Saloon Hoxton; Red Dog Saloon Soho; Red Dog Saloon at World’s End Finsbury Park

Cahoots Postal Office, Borough Market

Why: Tucked away in the heart of Borough Market, there’s something truly wonderful about an evening at Cahoots Postal Office. This 1940s post office-themed cocktail bar is unlike anything you've seen before, decked out with letters, parcels, and old-timey decorations as far as the eyes can see. The cocktails are equally wonderful: with the world’s first pneumatic cocktail delivery service that allows you to get a selection of cocktails delivered through the air, with over-the-top drinking vessels from tiny post boxes to Winston Churchill’s head. Whilst the food menu only consists of a couple of nibbles, this is absolutely one of the most fun places to drink in London, with extravagant cocktails, exciting decor and a truly electric atmosphere.
Where: 18 Stoney Street, SE1 9AD
Book now: Cahoots Postal Office

Bob Bob Ricard, Soho and City of London

Why: Still famous for its ‘Press for Champagne’ button, Bob Bob Ricard is the place to go for no-expense-spared good times. Enjoy the feel of a proper crystal Champagne glass between your fingers as you dunk round after round of caviar blinis and generally feel like royalty.
Where: 1 Upper James Street, W1F 9DF; The Leadenhall Building, 122 Leadenhall Street, EC3V 4AB
Want to make it a party? Check out private dining options at Bob Bob Ricard Soho and Bob Bob Ricard City
Book now: Bob Bob Ricard Soho; Bob Bob Ricard City

The Top Hat Restaurant & Bar, Holborn

Why: Themed on the classic Monopoly board game, The Top Hat Restaurant & Bar finds its home next door to its immersive gaming experience partner. Once you’ve whizzed round the life-size board, you’ll have worked up quite the appetite. Luckily help is at hand, as here drinks and food are plentiful, and loosely themed around the game. Interiors also pay homage to the classic family pastime through subtle nods like using tube-line fabric on upholstered items.
Where: 213-215 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7PN
Want to make it a party? Check out venue hire at Monopoly Lifesized
Book now: Top Hat

Manzi's, Soho

Why: A fun and flamboyant setting with a menu to match, Soho restaurant Manzi’s offers an impressive seafood selection with a dose of kitsch seaside charm. From the mermaid statues holding up the bar to the silver crab-shaped salt and pepper shakers, every little detail has been carefully thought through. Look out for the restaurant’s oyster hour, fish and fizz Fridays and live music events.
Where: 1-8 Bateman's Buildings, W1D 3EN
Want to make it a party? Check out venue hire options at Manzi's
Book now: Manzi's

Speedboat Bar, Soho

Why: If your idea of fun is live kickboxing on TV, Thai drinking games and food so hot you leave a little sweat puddle if you stay in one place for too long, Speedboat Bar will definitely be for you. Ravenous spice levels, electric neon colours and a quality drinks list that includes powerful Negronis, ice-cold Singha beer towers and chasers, make this a fun hang way into the night. Plus there’s a pool table upstairs.
Where: 30 Rupert Street, W1D 6DL
Book now: Speedboat Bar

Dans Le Noir, Farringdon

Why: Want to put your taste buds to the test? Make your way into Dans Le Noir, but try not to get lost, because you’ll be dining in the dark at this quirky restaurant. Dans Le Noir challenges the norm, and promises to change your perception of food, as you dine on its globally influenced French cuisine and wine chosen by an in-house sommelier.  If you’re feeling very adventurous, go for the surprise menu.
Where: 30-31 Clerkenwell Green, EC1R 0DU
Book now: Dans Le Noir

Balham Bowls Club, Balham

Why: This lively South London pub offers something a bit different for your next meal out. Bringing a classic boozer feel, Balham Bowls Club is exactly what the name suggests, a historic spot decked out with plenty of memorabilia from its former life as a bowls club. Sport is still a big focus today though, with countless screens showing all the major games, along with an expansive beer garden that’s perfect for large groups. Expect creative gastropub menus, including the likes of confit duck cassoulet, haricot beans, and smoked bacon, or chicken with Pink Fir potatoes, Swiss chard, and a tarragon broth.
Where: 7-9 Ramsden Road, SW12 8QX
Book now: Balham Bowls Club

Leaf & Cane, Blackfriars

Why: Tucked away in the heart of Blackfriars, located within the Hyatt Regency London, Leaf & Cane brings a rather unique backdrop for your next dinner. Expect extravagant interiors, from leafy wallpaper and sprawling greenery, bringing a tropical feel to your Latin-inspired menus. Not only that, but Leaf & Cane boasts a series of nine former stone vaults that were once part of a women’s prison, so you and your guests can tuck yourselves away in one of the stylishly reimagined semi-private ‘cells.’
Where: 19 New Bridge Street, EC4V 6DB
Want to make it a party? Check out private dining options at Leaf & Cane
Book now: Leaf & Cane

Inamo, Covent Garden

Why: Inamo is one for the techies. This pan-Asian restaurant is a futuristic experience that allows you to order food and play games via fully touch-sensitive tables. You can watch your sashimi be prepared through the chef cam and play retro video games from your seat. The entertainment at this restaurant is top-notch and the food is on par too, with a lovely selection of sharing plates such as tender squid dumplings, miso black cod, and chicken satay on offer.  
Where: 11-14 Hanover Place, WC2E 9JP
Book now: Inamo Covent Garden

Bustronome, Embankment

Why: Hop on board this bus for a four-course fine dining meal cooked out of the mobile kitchen, for an experience that is pretty high up on the novelty scale. Catch some pretty views as you tour around London, thanks to the glass roof. It’s an impressive feat, and Bustronome pulls it off well – plus the menu is constantly evolving as new chefs are invited on board to develop dishes regularly.
Where: Coach bay 40B, Victoria Embankment, WC2N 6PB
Want to make it a party? Check out venue hire options at Bustronome
Book now: Bustronome

Love living the high life? You'll want to check out our guide to the best rooftop bars in London. If immersive dining experiences are more your thing, however, then definitely don't miss our guide to the best Korean BBQ in London and get your group grilling!