What are the romantic fine dining restaurants in London that are best for a first date, an anniversary dinner, or a special night out with your beloved? We’ve curated a list of the most romantic and chic eateries in London right now.
what are the most romantic restaurants in London right now?
If you’re lucky enough to be falling in love in London, a sure-fire way to enhance those stomach butterflies is, well, through the stomach. Dining out at a restaurant is obviously standard date night activity but at the capital’s finest romantic spots, the striking room, gracious service, and indulgent cuisine all serve as the ultimate aphrodisiac.
We’ve identified the top fine dining romantic restaurants in London for your next first date, anniversary or other special night with your beloved. It’s a well-rounded list of classical rooms with refined French cuisine to sublime Asian food in more trendy settings. Whether you’re finally ready to say the L word or celebrating a milestone anniversary, these hot spots will make you and your date feel like you’re the stars of your own epic romance. The kind where the couple ends up together, happily-ever-after, of course.
the most romantic restaurants for a first date, anniversary dinner or special occasion in London
1. Galvin La Chapelle, Spitalfields
Regarded as one of London’s most romantic restaurants, this former chapel with its vaulted stone ceilings and dramatic arched windows is the setting for the Galvin brothers’ renowned menu of sophisticated French cuisine.
The elevated, modern flourishes and polished service earned this Spitalfields gem a Michelin star in 2011. The restaurant has retained it ever since. Wear your most elegant outfit and celebrate your special occasion here for a night to remember.
2. Clos Maggiore, Covent Garden
Whether you prefer a cozy and intimate nook inside the restaurant, or a table out in their shimmering courtyard conservatory with a crackling fireplace, Clos Maggiore knows how to cast a spell.
Expect beautiful plates of Provençal cooking inspired by stylish country inns of Provence and Tuscany. And the serious wine list from their globally renowned wine cellar boasts over 2,500 selections. It’s all the essential ingredients for night of intoxicating magic.
3. The Tent (at the End of the Universe), Fitzrovia
This chic and sophisticated eatery has only eight tables, and seems to have been created with sexy trysts in mind. Dramatically draped in Bedouin textiles, the intimate room hosts buzzy ex-Noma chef John Javier’s menu of Middle Eastern small plates.
Highlights include spiced lamb shish, fresh tiger prawns, and smokey saganaki cheese served with sweet pomegranate molasses glaze.
4. Benares, Mayfair
London has long been known for its Indian cuisine and the high-end Benares, in the heart of Berkeley Square, is one of the best.
Feast on sublime, succulent scallops served with lime, coriander, and green chili chutney. And delicate saffron curries in the dining room, or distinctive, ‘street-food’ style sharing menu at the bar. There is a hushed ambience in this sophisticated eatery that is perfect for an intimate tête-à-tête.
5. Blanchette, SoHo
Escape to a charming, rural French cottage off the streets of Soho. You and your date are encouraged to share a range of seasonal plates and a decadent menu of French charcuterie and cheese pairings.
Music is not an afterthought here and the buzzy soundtracks along with the strong cocktails, establish a convivial, yet elegant atmosphere.
6. Bob Bob Ricard, SoHo
If you’re after glamour and opulent luxury, this Russian-inspired salon offers up pure decadence.
Every table is equipped with a ‘Press for Champagne’ button and the Art Deco dining room transports you to another time and place. The food and cocktails are equally indulgent- from top-notch caviar and oysters to the famous steak tartare.
7. Spring, Lancaster Place
Housed in a restored, 19th century pastel drawing room that had previously been closed to the public for 150 years, Spring is a magical dining experience.
Skye Gyngell, the head chef, creates a seasonal menu of British food like slow-cooked pork with sage, fennel and blood orange, or sirloin with Jerusalem artichokes and grilled leeks. The extensive wine list is supplemented by inventive cocktails, seasonal juices, and house-made liqueurs and minerals.
8. Hakkasan, Hanway Place, Fitzrovia
If you want your date to know that you want to be more than friends, whisk them to Hakkasan. Your intentions will be known as you descend the steps into a sexy and seductive black lacquered room designed by Christian Liagre, the celebrated French interior designer.
World class Cantonese cuisine and exotic drinks await. The most popular element of all? Hakkasan’s imaginative desserts, like the ‘Autumn Garden,’ which consists of Caramel sesame cream, green apple and shortbread are incredible.
9. Umu, Mayfair
Sushi can be a wonderful aphrodisiac and Umu is known for some of the most masterfully crafted sushi in London. Head Chef Yoshinori Ishii spent nine years at the three Michelin-starred Kyoto Kitcho in Japan.
His exquisite dishes speak to that legacy, as does his attention to every detail from the floral arrangements to the custom ceramic tableware. The dining room is sultry and sophisticated and the waitstaff is attentive and gracious.
10. Sessions Arts Club, Clerkenwell
Sessions Arts Club boasts one of the most regal rooms in London, once a historic courthouse complete with soaring arched windows, ornate staircases, and fireplaces. The convivial atmosphere feels straight out of a seductive members club.
There is a seasonal, eclectic food menu. And while it’s only been open since 2021, it’s already being considered a London classic.
11. Jikoni, Marylebone
Jikoni pays homage to mixed-heritage and cross-cultural cooking that spans the flavors of Asia, the Middle East, east Africa and the UK.
It’s homey comfort food with a twist served in an equally fresh and colorful space that feels like you just scored a coveted invite to a dinner party of the coolest person you know.
the most romantic and chic restaurants in London
That’s our roundup of the best fine dining restaurants in London for a first date, anniversary dinner, or special night. Right now, these eateries make our list of the most romantic and chic restaurants in London. Here’s to a night to remember! Cheers!
