London is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to cozy hidden gems serving authentic flavors. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a seasoned local looking to explore something new, these top five restaurants in London should be on your must-visit list. From exquisite tasting menus to unforgettable ambiance, we cover what makes each restaurant special, along with their estimated costing.
Top 5 Best Restaurants in London
1. Restaurant Gordon Ramsay – A Michelin Star Legacy
📍 Location: 68 Royal Hospital Rd, Chelsea, London SW3 4HP
⭐ Michelin Stars: 3
What Makes It Special?
Established in 1998, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay is a legendary dining spot, holding three Michelin stars for over two decades. The restaurant offers a French fine-dining experience curated by Chef Patron Matt Abé, with exceptional service and an intimate atmosphere (only 14 tables!). Every dish is an artful presentation of seasonal ingredients, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Signature Dishes:
- Ravioli of Lobster, Langoustine & Salmon – A delicate and flavorful seafood creation.
- Cornish Turbot with Shellfish – A seafood lover’s delight.
- Tarte Tatin – A perfect ending to a gourmet meal.
💰 Costing:
- Tasting Menu: £185 per person
- A la Carte: Starters from £50, Mains from £90
👉 Best For: Special occasions, gourmet dining, and Michelin-star lovers.
2. Sketch – A Dreamy Wonderland of Culinary Art
📍 Location: 9 Conduit St, Mayfair, London W1S 2XG
⭐ Michelin Stars: 2
What Makes It Special?
If you want a restaurant that’s as Instagrammable as it is delicious, Sketch is your go-to. Known for its quirky pink-themed interiors and avant-garde dishes, this Mayfair gem combines art and food to create an immersive dining experience. From the futuristic egg-shaped toilets to the elegant Lecture Room & Library, everything here is designed for a sensory adventure.
Signature Dishes:
- Duck Foie Gras & Truffle Brioche – A decadent starter for true gourmands.
- Cornish Lobster & Black Truffle Gnocchi – A luxurious twist on a classic.
- Chocolate Sphere with Vanilla Mousse – A visually stunning dessert.
💰 Costing:
- Tasting Menu: £185 per person
- Afternoon Tea: From £72 per person
- A la Carte: Mains from £55
👉 Best For: Instagram lovers, art enthusiasts, and high-end afternoon tea experiences.
3. Dishoom – A Bombay Café with a London Twist
📍 Location: Several branches, flagship in Covent Garden (12 Upper St Martin’s Ln, London WC2H 9FB)
What Makes It Special?
Inspired by Bombay’s Irani cafés, Dishoom brings a mix of nostalgia, rich Indian flavors, and a warm, buzzing atmosphere. Expect a casual yet stylish vibe, with vintage Bollywood posters, aromatic spices filling the air, and some of the best Indian food in the city.
Signature Dishes:
- Bacon Naan Roll – A perfect breakfast dish, featuring crispy bacon in a soft naan.
- House Black Daal – A slow-cooked, buttery delight.
- Chicken Ruby Curry – A must-try flavorful curry.
💰 Costing:
- Small Plates: From £6
- Main Dishes: £10-£15
- Feast for Two: Around £50
👉 Best For: Casual dining, Indian food lovers, and a lively social atmosphere.
4. Core by Clare Smyth – British Fine Dining at Its Best
📍 Location: 92 Kensington Park Rd, Notting Hill, London W11 2PN
⭐ Michelin Stars: 3
What Makes It Special?
Founded by Clare Smyth, the first British female chef to hold three Michelin stars, Core is a celebration of modern British cuisine with a focus on sustainability and local ingredients. Expect beautifully plated dishes, exceptional service, and a wine list that perfectly complements the flavors.
Signature Dishes:
- Potato and Roe – A surprisingly delicious dish of potato, herring roe, and beurre blanc.
- Lamb Carrot – A playful take on lamb and carrots.
- Core Apple – A deconstructed apple pie dessert.
💰 Costing:
- Tasting Menu: £195 per person
- Wine Pairing: £155 per person
- A la Carte: Mains from £65
👉 Best For: Luxury dining, British cuisine lovers, and special celebrations.
5. The Ledbury – London’s Ultimate Foodie Destination
📍 Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, Notting Hill, London W11 2AQ
⭐ Michelin Stars: 2
What Makes It Special?
After a brief closure, The Ledbury has returned better than ever, serving innovative British-European cuisine. The restaurant features a chef’s tasting menu with seasonal ingredients, making each visit a unique experience. The service is impeccable, and the intimate setting makes it one of London’s best fine dining spots.
Signature Dishes:
- Salted Duck with Beetroot and Hazelnuts – A bold combination of flavors.
- Aged Pigeon with Girolles – A dish that highlights the chef’s skill.
- Burnt Honey Tart with Milk Ice Cream – A perfect balance of sweetness.
💰 Costing:
- Tasting Menu: £195 per person
- Wine Pairing: £150 per person
👉 Best For: Fine dining enthusiasts, food critics, and anyone seeking an elevated dining experience.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
London has a vibrant restaurant scene, offering something for every taste and budget. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
- For Michelin-star fine dining: Restaurant Gordon Ramsay & Core by Clare Smyth
- For an artistic and Instagrammable experience: Sketch
- For flavorful Indian food in a casual setting: Dishoom
- For an unforgettable tasting menu experience: The Ledbury
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just exploring London’s best restaurants, these picks are worth every penny!
🍽️ Which one are you adding to your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!
