Top 5 Famous Restaurants in London

Though we all like to think we’ve got our fingers on the pulse, that we’re the first ones to hear about this great little place that none of our fellow foodies have frequented, there’s sometimes nothing more comforting than knowing you’re off out to eat somewhere that already has international approval. Whereas they’re found right on our doorstep, these are the sorts of dinner plans that people will flock from every corner of the globe to experience. Check out our rundown of restaurants in London guaranteed to get a knowing nod.

1. The Ritz Restaurant

Green Park

You know you’re onto a winner when you’re dining in one of the world’s most famous hotels. Synonymous with panache and luxury, only one place will do when you feel like puttin’ on The Ritz, and this magnificent presence on Piccadilly boasts a palatial dining room, as well as playing host to one of the capital’s most desirable afternoon teas. With its menu tailored by John Williams MBE (yep, that’s a chef that’s been recognised in the Queen’s birthday honours list), it flies the flag as our most famous restaurant in London.

2. OXO Tower

South Bank

Taking its name from one of the nation’s kitchen cupboard staples, the OXO Tower looms over the Thames with its instantly-recognisable stained glass peak. As well as its contemporary cuisine and citywide-famous cocktail mixes, hordes flock to the OXO Tower restaurant for its postcard-perfect views, which look over an uninterrupted stretch of the Thames.

3. Nobu

Shoreditch

Lauded as ‘the hippest restaurant group in the world’ by Vogue magazine, Nobu, Willow Street is a chic member of chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s empire. In the earthy yet super-sleek dining room, guests can feast on Nobu’s now immortalised bento boxes and exotic cocktail mixes, and even catch glimpses of the chefs at work in the open kitchen.

4. Galvin at Windows

Mayfair

Towering 28 floors above London, Galvin at Windows unsurprisingly takes its name from the truly spectacular glass panes framing the 360-degree views of London below. Arguably the most pack-a-punch venue from celebrated chef brothers Chris & Jeff, Windows restaurant holds 3 AA Rosettes with French haute cuisine being the order of the day.

5. Buddha-Bar London

Knightsbridge

With sister restaurants in New York City and Paris, which make regular appearances on lists of the world’s best bars, Buddha-Bar London is a chic international restaurant serving up an inspired pan-Asian menu. A huge suspended Buddha watches over proceedings in the dining room, where artful cocktail mixing happens at the bar, and immersive world music creates an atmospheric vibe.