City Social

This elevated grill and restaurant from Jason Atherton may not be the tallest dining destination in London but the food here still reaches lofty heights. Occupying the 24th floor of Tower 42, Michelin-starred City Social is unusual among London’s high-rise dining rooms in that it sits among London’s skyscrapers, rather than looming over them – you can even spy who’s doing overtime in the office blocks opposite.

Comprising a separate bar and dining room, City Social is an attractive proposition, even if the dark-wood interiors do feel a little dated these days. While it’s mostly favoured by City workers, the low lighting and glittering skyline also make this a viable date-night option, while cosy furnishings and seating on different levels (which ensures everyone gets a good view of the dramatic skyline) are nice touches.

Classically trained chef Tom Lidakevicius (who has previously worked at Galvin at Windows and Corrigan’s) transforms familiar seasonal ingredients with confidence and finesse. To begin, decadent squid ink tortellini parcels are filled with sweet shredded lobster and cloaked in warming lobster bisque, while thick slices of tender duck breast are served alongside a subtly sharp medley of salsify and radish. Of course, you could always order from the grill too, with the accommodating and knowledgeable staff recommending the côte de bœuf to share.

When it comes to dessert, the pastry chef shows off with puddings such as a delicately assembled and refreshing pear tart that resembles a flower in bloom, with shards of meringue acting as the petals. There are afters to tempt the savoury toothed too, though, with one fan confessing they’d 'go just for the cheeseboard'. If you prefer liquid desserts, City Social’s impressive leather-bound drinks list is a veritable bible of booze, with enough options to keep the even the choosiest of oenophiles happy, while cocktails are shaken up in the adjoining bar.

Found on the 24th floor of Tower 42, right in the heart of London, Michelin-starred City Social boasts jaw-dropping, panoramic views of the London skyline and a classy modern British menu to match.

City Social is a particularly bright star in Jason Atherton's impressive Social Company restaurant group. As of 2019, Tomas Lidakevicius has taken over executive chef duties here, and he brings a wealth of experience to the role having worked at the likes of Galvin at Windows, Corrigan’s Mayfair and Texture. 

The menu at City Social is typical of Atherton's restaurants - elegant, modern British food that celebrates the best produce the country has to offer, and elevates it with a dash of international panache. Dishes include the likes of Devon crab with bitter leaf salad, nashi pear and brown crab toast on starters, braised short rib with watercress, alliums and olive oil mash for mains, as well as a pasta course and Hereford beef steaks from the josper grill. Naturally there's a choice of caviar options for those who are ready to push the boat out. City Social also caters well for vegetarians and vegans, offering dedicated vegetarian and vegan set menus as well as the vegetarian options on the a la carte. Don't forget to leave room for desserts like chocolate délice, miso caramel and black sesame ice-cream.

Within the same venue as City Social, you will find Social 24, a more casual bar that features equally stupendous views of London. As well as a terrific cocktail menu, the bar also includes a selection of beers, spirits, wines and Champagnes, along with a bar menu ideal for a relaxed bite with friends or a business lunch.