An elegant street corner in Mayfair, in this case housing the Farm Shop store and wine bar. © Joanna Yee/MICHELIN Guide
Mayfair: The Luxury Hub for Discerning Tastes and Deep Pockets If sheer quality and luxury is all you care about, it’s hard to look past Mayfair as the best place to eat and stay in London. Its location is ideal for visitors, just west of the city’s epicentre and within easy reach of both Hyde Park and the luxury shops on Oxford Street and Regent Street. It also has MICHELIN Stars and Keys to spare, with a huge choice of top-drawer addresses in a relatively small space. Admittedly, all of this comes at a cost, with Mayfair not the best neighbourhood if you’re travelling on a budget. But if you’re celebrating or want some proper old-world glamour for your money, there’s nowhere better.
Explore our comprehensive Mayfair neighbourhood guide.
An impeccable tomato dish from Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, alongside the ‘mostly vegan’ cooking at Tendril. © Justin De Souza/Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, © Anton Rodriguez/Tendril
Where to Eat in Mayfair Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester: Quite simply one of the very best restaurants in London, this is French mastery at its finest: impeccable service and Ducasse signatures interpreted with aplomb.
Hélène Darroze at The Connaught: The UK’s only Three-MICHELIN-Star restaurant in a Three-MICHELIN-Key hotel, this is the definition of crème de la crème with its technically outstanding dishes and premium produce. Go for a martini in The Connaught Bar first.
Gymkhana: London’s first Two-MICHELIN-Star Indian restaurant, this is the place to come for traditional recipes cooked with unerring skill and beautifully balanced flavours. The plush basement room is a joy too.
HIDE: One for the wine lovers, this is co-owned by Hedonism Wines, meaning any of their shop’s thousands of bottles can be at your table in 15 minutes. The Star food and stylish dining room are equally enticing.
Tendril: More affordable than the rest of Mayfair and a great option for meat-free diners, this ‘mostly vegan’ restaurant uses all manner of plants in internationally inspired, downright tasty ways.
45 Park Lane, part of the Dorchester Collection and sporting art deco stylings. © 45 Park Lane, Dorchester Collection
Where to Stay in Mayfair Claridge’s: About as Mayfair as Mayfair can be, this historic hotel is unashamedly old-school in its approach, from the top-hatted doormen to the art deco design. A cocktail in the discreet Fumoir bar is a must.
Four Seasons Park Lane: The first Four Seasons in Europe – located on iconic Park Lane – is as good as you’d expect, with a big helping of opulence and a pampering 10th-floor spa with park views.
Brown’s Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel: Known as one of the most proudly British hotels in the city, Brown’s combines its traditionalism with a modern touch. For something different, book the Sir Paul Smith Suite, filled with the fashion designer’s trademark stripes.
45 Park Lane, Dorchester Collection: Just down the road from The Dorchester itself, this is a great alternative if you want Mayfair luxury without the scale of a grande dame hotel. There are 45 rooms, all exquisite.
The Twenty Two: Had enough of the traditional kind of Mayfair luxury? Step inside The Twenty Two’s Edwardian frontage and discover splashes of colour, whimsical touches and an altogether more playful kind of elegance.
A Soho street corner, featuring one of its many pubs alongside Kettner’s hotel. © Joanna Yee/MICHELIN Guide
Soho: Non-Stop Fun and Flavour in Theatreland The beating heart of the British capital, Soho is one of the most fun places you can visit during your time in London. From its legendary West End theatres to its rich history with music and LGBTQ+ culture, rarely has one placed packed so much joy into just a few streets. The food story here is one of remarkable variety, ranging from MICHELIN-Starred counters to traditional pubs via a huge spread of international cuisines – and unlike next-door Mayfair, there are bargains to be found. Soho isn’t about donning your handbags and gladrags, it’s about cocktails, sharing plates and making memories with friends.
Discover our full, in-depth Soho neighbourhood guide.
One of the creative dishes from Aulis, plus a classic prawn cocktail from The Devonshire pub in Soho. © Cristian Barnett/Aulis, © Joanna Yee/MICHELIN Guide
Where to Eat in Soho Mountain: This has been one of the hottest tickets in town since the moment it opened. Offering stripped-back, ingredient-led cooking over fire with MICHELIN-Star quality, Mountain is fun, relaxed and lip-smackingly delicious.
The Devonshire: Run by the gregarious Oisín Rogers and serving a seemingly endless stream of Guinness, this is Soho’s current pub of the moment. Those in the know head past the pavement drinkers and upstairs for the unfussy, grill-centric cooking.
Kiln: One of several Bib Gourmand-awarded spots proving Soho’s capacity for great value, Kiln combines cooking over fire with punchy Thai flavours. The result is another of the area’s best-loved restaurants.
Donia: The flavours of the Philippines are showcased in all their glory thanks to Chef Florence Mae Maglanoc and her team at this loveable restaurant. Sharing is ideal in principle, but you’ll be loath to share dishes this delicious.
Aulis: This is Soho at its most refined. An intimate chef’s counter backed by L’Enclume’s Simon Rogan and using produce from his farm, it’s a restaurant for those who love immersive dining and creative, flavour-packed dishes.
The plush, playful designs at Broadwick Soho. © Joanna Yee/MICHELIN Guide
Where to Stay in Soho Ham Yard Hotel: One of the jewels in Firmdale Hotels’ crown, this playful yet tasteful riot of colour offers a brilliant base in central London while keeping your eyes entertained. It’s luxury without the formality.
Broadwick Soho: Another example of the more colourful kind of opulence you get in Soho, the Broadwick has a properly plush feel with its soft fabrics, deep hues and moody bars ideal for late-night glamour.
Dean Street Townhouse: The Soho House brand of members’ clubs may now be global, but it started here in London’s West End. Dean Street Townhouse is a stylish hotel just four doors down from the flagship club.
Hotel Café Royal: Usefully positioned near the intersection of Soho, Mayfair and St James’s, this luxurious, history-laden hotel has earned Two MICHELIN Keys and also boasts a Two-MICHELIN-Star restaurant from Alex Dilling.
The Soho Hotel: Another one from the ever-vibrant Firmdale Hotels group, this option is slightly less lauded than the Two-MICHELIN-Key Ham Yard, yet is actually closer to central Soho whilst having a more discreet location.
A quiet morning as locals stroll the streets of Shoreditch. © Joanna Yee/MICHELIN Guide
Shoreditch: The Gateway to East London From a culinary wilderness to a young upstart to one of London’s most exciting dining scenes, eating in Shoreditch has changed a lot over the last three decades. Easily accessible from the city centre, it acts as a starting point for those more used to the tourist districts but wanting to explore alternative East London. In the streets and in its restaurants and hotels, you’ll find Shoreditch has more fun and less formality than some central areas. The cooking has a buzzy, boundary-pushing vibe to it, but with an increasingly deep bench of culinary quality too – and with the MICHELIN Stars to prove it.
Explore our complete Shoreditch neighbourhood guide.
MICHELIN-Starred cooking from Brat and Plates London, two typically forward-thinking restaurants in Shoreditch. © Joanna Yee/MICHELIN Guide
Where to Eat in Shoreditch The Clove Club: When Chef Isaac McHale’s restaurant won Two MICHELIN Stars in 2022, it was a big moment for Shoreditch, rubber stamping its culinary heft – thanks to a truly top-tier restaurant that fizzes with energy and personality.
Brat: One of the hipster foodie’s most beloved restaurants, this MICHELIN-Star spot is all about outstanding produce cooked over fire, taking inspiration from the delicious simplicity of the Basque country.
manteca: No-nonsense Italian dishes with a nose-to-tail ethos is the headline at this well-priced spot that’s one of several Bib Gourmands around here. Owner David Carter is also behind the brilliant barbecue at Smokestak nearby.
Singburi: Another wallet-friendly Bib Gourmand, this time specialising in vibrant Thai flavours, Singburi was a word-of-social-media phenomenon from its days in further-east Leytonstone before opening here.
Plates London: The UK’s only vegan MICHELIN-Star restaurant both makes perfect sense in alternative Shoreditch yet also has a serene, elegant feel that would seem equally at home in Mayfair or Belgravia.
The bedroom of Sir Richard’s Penthouse Flat at Virgin Hotel London Shoreditch. © Joanna Yee/MICHELIN Guide
Where to Stay in Shoreditch The Hoxton, Shoreditch: This now-global brand was born right here, breaking norms and setting trends from Day One with its buzzy communal spaces and pared-back guestrooms away from London’s pricey centre.
Boundary Shoreditch: Across 17 modern bedrooms, Boundary takes in an array of design influences, with each room’s décor changing from Shaker one moment to Bauhaus the next. Plus, there’s plenty of space compared to central London.
Virgin Hotel London Shoreditch: The warehouse-esque building here is in-keeping with a once-industrial neighbourhood, while the rooftop pool and red-hued vinyl bar spotlight the hip playground it has become.
Redchurch Townhouse: With a MICHELIN Key to its name, this 37-room hotel brings Soho House’s signature style and quality to Shoreditch. It’s a prime example of how central-adjacent Shoreditch can now feel.
One Hundred Shoreditch: Bright, clean simplicity in the heart of the action is the headline at this hotel situated at 100 Shoreditch High Street, keeping lots of the area’s best restaurants within touching distance.
Cyclists riding alongside Regent’s Canal in Hackney, a key East London neighbourhood. © Paolo Paradiso/iStock
Hackney: Home of the Culinary New Wave If Shoreditch is your first step towards discovering East London, make Hackney your second. With an increasing number of fun, on-trend restaurants, the areas in and around Hackney – like Homerton, Hoxton and Dalston – are becoming the place to be for the foodie cool kids. More people, of course, actually live in districts like this than the likes of Mayfair or Covent Garden, which is reflected in more informal restaurants with a local feel, and some terrific Bib Gourmands offering great value for money. So, if you prefer neighbourhood hangouts to photographing landmarks, then Hackney might be the place for you.
Dessert from MICHELIN-Starred Behind and a verdant dish from Rogues, both in Hackney. © John Carey/Behind, © Aurore Bouillot/Rogues
Where to Eat in Hackney Behind: Hackney’s crown jewel and a symbol of how its dining scene has evolved, Behind is a MICHELIN-Star chef’s counter serving a surprise tasting menu focused on top-drawer seafood in original, refined dishes.
Miga: A great value spot holding a Bib Gourmand, this family-run eatery showcases the invigorating flavours of South Korea via boldly flavoured yet finely balanced dishes, served in bright, simple surroundings.
Rogues: Two friends generated plenty of buzz from various pop-ups before opening this likeable restaurant serving a regularly changing menu of seasonal British dishes carrying bold, interesting flavours.
Where to Stay in Hackney Town Hall Hotel: There aren’t many MICHELIN Guide hotels in Hackney just yet, but not far away, in Bethnal Green, the Town Hall Hotel occupies a lovely Edwardian building and is well known for its inventive Two-MICHELIN-Star restaurant, Da Terra.
For exploring East London, any of the terrific hotels in Shoreditch would also make a great base.
The City of London, where gleaming skyscrapers loom over historical buildings. © Elena Zolotova/iStock
City of London: Foodie Finds in the Financial District One of the British capital’s more confusingly named neighbourhoods, the City of London (sometimes just called ‘The City’) is not in fact all of London, but a pocket of centre-east streets filled to the brim with skyscrapers and swanky offices for the UK’s financial types to do business. As you’d expect from a district literally centred around money, there’s a decent choice of restaurants around here too. Some have the upmarket elegance you’d expect, but there are also plenty of low-key options that are ideally suited to a comforting catch up with friends after a long day at the office.
Restaurant Gordon Ramsay High’s 60th-floor counter and one of the Indian dishes from Brigadiers. © Restaurant Gordon Ramsay High, © Marcus Cobden/Brigadiers
Where to Eat in the City of London Restaurant Gordon Ramsay High: The most eye-catching of the bunch, this 60th-floor restaurant makes full use of The City’s signature skyscrapers by having its 12-seater counter face the view – a memorable setting for MICHELIN-Star cooking.
Cloth: On the other side of The City and feeling worlds away, this cockle-warming wine bar and bistro is all about simple, ingredient-led dishes paired with interesting and high-quality wines from an extensive list.
Brigadiers: A place you’d come to let your hair down rather than have a business meeting, this Indian restaurant is permanently packed and filled with an almighty buzz. Yet the delicious dishes from across India still capture the attention.
South Place Hotel, in the heart of London’s financial district. © South Place Hotel
Where to Stay in the City of London Pan Pacific London: Putting The City’s gleaming glass towers to good use with its sky-high rooms and London views, the Pan Pacific combines understated modern luxury with local touches and nods to the brand’s native Singapore.
South Place Hotel: Just a minute from Moorgate station, South Place is decked out with modern yet playful interiors, eschewing bland business-hotel aesthetics. MICHELIN-Star seafood restaurant Angler resides on the roof.
The Ned: Appropriately enough for this neighbourhood, The Ned occupies a former bank and uses those high ceilings and old-school grandeur to great effect across a hotel decked out in ’20s and ’30s luxury.
The kind of typically elegant street you find in London’s Fitzrovia and Bloomsbury neighbourhoods. © fotoVoyager/iStock
Bloomsbury & Fitzrovia: For the City’s Most Food-Loving Street These neighbouring, and overlapping, districts are known in foodie circles as the home of Charlotte Street, which has long hosted more top-drawer restaurants than one road has any right to. Situated a little north of London’s true epicentre, Bloomsbury and Fitzrovia are a more relaxed and slightly less splashy alternative to the full-force bustle of Soho or the overt grandeur of Mayfair – yet still with plenty of buzz and a deep bench of quality restaurants. Plus, literary lovers will enjoy spotting the former houses and haunts of Virginia Woolf and the famed Bloomsbury Group.
Jollof rice from Akoko and ‘khinkali’ dumplings from Kinkally, both in Fitzrovia. © John Carey/Akoko, © Sergey Melnikov/Kinkally
Where to Eat in Bloomsbury & Fitzrovia Pied à Terre: One of Charlotte Street’s oldest and most significant residents, this is London’s longest-serving MICHELIN-Star restaurant and celebrated its 35th anniversary this year. Plant-based diners are very well catered for.
Kinkally: Another Charlotte Street spot, this Georgian restaurant (plus basement cocktail bar) is named after its signature khinkali dumplings – just one of the fun, flavoursome dishes ideal for sharing.
Akoko: One of Fitzrovia’s several MICHELIN Stars, this is Londoners’ go-to for high-end West African cooking with a creative twist. Deep, complex flavours abound in dishes built around top-drawer ingredients.
The Mandrake, an eye-popping study in lush maximalism. © The Mandrake Hotel
Where to Stay in Bloomsbury & Fitzrovia The Newman: Victorian meets art deco is the headline at this understatedly stylish hotel where neutral colours and a soft, soothing style reign supreme. The spa and basement bar are just two highlights.
The Mandrake Hotel: This is the kind of hotel that thinks nothing of your oh-so-cool minimalism and would rather dance to its own flamboyant tune. Velvet, bold patterns, eye-popping colours, even lush greenery – it’s all here.
The Zetter Bloomsbury: Part of The Zetter’s mini-group of boutique townhouse hotels with a chic residential feel, this Bloomsbury branch gives you easy access to the British Museum and is only a short walk from Soho too.
The desirable Marylebone High Street, which carries a local, village-like feel. © IR_Stone/iStock
Marylebone: The Elegant Alternative That’s Still Central Sandwiched between Regent’s Park and the very core of London, Marylebone is a neighbourhood in perfect balance. It’s got the well-heeled elegance of Mayfair, but isn’t quite as ostentatiously moneyed; it’s well located for visitors, but without the never-ending crowds of Soho; it’s got big-city energy, but with a self-contained neighbourhood feel – best found as you saunter down Marylebone High Street and pop into beautiful Daunt Books for a browse. The restaurants have a similar quality and classiness, covering a wide range of cuisines so you’re never stuck for choice.
Dishes from Trishna and The Hart, two fabulous local spots to visit in Marylebone. © Marcus Cobden/Trishna, © Dave Watts/The Hart
Where to Eat in Marylebone AngloThai: The name says it all. Chef John Chantarasak fuses his Thai and British heritage into a thrillingly original and wonderfully conceived tasting menu founded on superb ingredients and Thai spicing.
The Hart: One of three great neighbourhood pubs owned by the same group (find others in Notting Hill and Maida Vale), The Hart is a four-storey building full of character and quirks, with dishes highlighting prime British produce.
Trishna: One of many MICHELIN-Starred Indian restaurants in London, Trishna focuses on the country’s coastal cooking, exemplified by the signature Dorset brown crab. The set menu offers exceptional value.
An idyllic terrace at The Langham hotel in Marylebone. © The Langham, London
Where to Stay in Marylebone The Langham: One of London’s substantial, grande dame hotels that dominates an entire block, The Langham is packed with old-world luxury. There’s also an on-site pub, The Wigmore, famed for its cut-above cheese toasties.
Home House London: At the other end of the size scale, this 23-room hotel is mostly known as a private members’ club, but as a resident you’ll get temporary access to the stylish shared spaces and exclusive atmosphere.
Nobu London Portman Square: The global behemoth that is Nobu has hotels under its wing all over the globe, with this outpost being a sleek, modern affair with a few Japanese touches and a minimalist kind of luxury.
The famously colourful buildings on Portobello Road in Notting Hill. © ClaudioStocco/iStock
Notting Hill: The New Home of the Culinary Elite This West London neighbourhood often has a quieter feel than the city centre – other than on the August bank holiday weekend of course, when it springs into life for Notting Hill Carnival. This annual celebration of Caribbean culture turns the streets into one big party and is one of the area’s most famous features. In recent years, the local food scene has been helping Notting Hill make headlines year-round too, with two Three-MICHELIN-Star restaurants that showcase the neighbourhood’s ever-increasing culinary reputation. Pleasingly, there’s plenty of room for local gems and great value Bib Gourmand spots too.
The floral dining room at CORE by Clare Smyth and an enticing shellfish dish from Dorian. © WeTheFoodSnobs/CORE by Clare Smyth, © Dorian
Where to Eat in Notting Hill The Ledbury: Winning its third MICHELIN Star in 2024 cemented The Ledbury among London’s finest and Notting Hill as the place to be for foodies. Expect complex yet balanced dishes where every ingredient plays a role.
CORE by Clare Smyth: Another member of London’s top table, Clare Smyth’s flagship restaurant exudes effortless luxury in every way, from the elegant dining room to the exceptionally composed dishes with an original streak.
Dorian: With its relaxed vibe, boldly flavoured sharing plates and cooking over fire, Dorian is one of a new breed of MICHELIN-Star restaurants. Owner Chris D’Sylva is behind other local tastemakers like Eel Sushi and the Supermarket of Dreams.
The delightful rooftop pool at White City House, a great base in West London. © White City House
Where to Stay in Notting Hill The Portobello Hotel: Plush, playful maximalism is the approach here, with bright fabrics and colourful furniture making sure you won’t forget your stay in a hurry. Early risers can browse Portobello Road Market before the crowds.
The Laslett: On the edge of the neighbourhood, this modern row of converted townhouses is named after Rhaune Laslett, founder of what would become the Notting Hill Carnival. Expect clean, contemporary design.
White City House: Technically outside Notting Hill, but still a good West London base, this offshoot of the Soho House brand occupies some of the former BBC Television Centre and boasts mid-century modern stylings.
The constantly bustling Covent Garden Market building in the sunshine. © IR_Stone/iStock
Covent Garden: Luxury Shopping and West End Magic Adjacent to Soho and with a similar love of all things theatrical, Covent Garden is a great place to feel like you’ve really seen the glamorous side of London. Whether you’re taking in world-class performances at the Royal Ballet & Opera or browsing the high-end boutiques in the historic Covent Garden Market, you’ll feel right in the thick of the action. Don’t miss one of the capital’s prime photo opportunities in the cute and colourful Neal’s Yard too. And of course, make sure you visit the area’s varied restaurants that are often ideal for pre-theatre dining.
The signature bread course from Frog by Adam Handling alongside an old-school dessert from Story Cellar. © Justin De Souza/Frog by Adam Handling, © Story Cellar
Where to Eat in Covent Garden Frog by Adam Handling: The eponymous chef’s MICHELIN-Starred flagship is an ode to British ingredients through detailed, original cooking. Handling also operates a bar and a chocolate shop in the area.
Story Cellar: On the edge of the neighbourhood, near Seven Dials Market, this British bistro deluxe from the team behind Restaurant Story specialises in rotisserie chicken and serves a knockout snail bolognese.
Rules: A proper Covent Garden legend, the oldest restaurant in London focuses on traditional British dishes such as the signature steak and kidney pudding, followed by comfort food desserts like apple crumble.
Covent Garden Hotel, decorated with Kit Kemp’s signature colourful style. © Covent Garden Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
Where to Stay in Covent Garden Covent Garden Hotel: This Two-MICHELIN-Key hotel is decorated with Kit Kemp’s signature style, which means no stiff formality and plenty of bright patterns and fabrics. Look out for the Saturday film club too.
NoMad London: Bow Street Magistrates’ Court has had its historic offices, courtrooms and even jail cells transformed into a stylish modern hotel. Make sure to pop into the Side Hustle bar for a Latin American-inspired cocktail.
Henrietta Experimental: The Experimental Cocktail Club is behind this townhouse conversion with a good line in classic-meets-contemporary design. As you’d expect, cocktails in the bar are a feature.
Buckingham Palace as seen from the lush St James’s Park. © Susan Vineyard/iStock
St James’s: Royal Quality on the Palace’s Doorstep For tourists and Royal fanatics, St James’s is a go-to neighbourhood for its proximity to Buckingham Palace, Horse Guards Parade and The Mall. But look beyond the headline and there’s so much more to love about this district. It borders Mayfair, Soho and Covent Garden, so is still very central, and it’s cradled by lovely parks to its south and west. And of course, it’s home to high-quality restaurants and hotels that come with a pretty plush feel. There’s even hospitality royalty in the form of The Ritz, which is currently undergoing major refurbishments, ready for the next era of its reign.
Arlington, a long-standing St James’s institution, and a spread of dishes from restaurant of the moment Fallow. © David Loftus/Arlington, © Steven Joyce/Fallow
Where to Eat in St James’s Chutney Mary: A suitably glitzy dining room for this part of town, Chutney Mary is one of London’s longest-serving Indian restaurants. Dishes are classic at heart and come from all corners of the country.
Arlington: Once known as Le Caprice before being reborn in its current guise by restaurateur Jeremy King, this has always been a place to see and be seen. The traditional, well-executed cooking fulfils its brief perfectly.
Fallow: A more recent phenomenon, this always-busy restaurant is one of the hottest tickets in town thanks to its owners’ savvy social media game. The cod’s head with sriracha is a signature and the team also run chicken restaurant FOWL nearby.
The luxurious lobby at The Ritz, one of London’s most iconic hotels. © The Ritz London
Where to Stay in St James’s The Ritz: Located by Green Park at the border of St James’s and Mayfair, this 1906-vintage hotel remains the height of classical luxury. And even as it undergoes changes, the Two-MICHELIN-Key hotel and Two-Star restaurant are still open.
Sofitel London St James: This grand old former bank now has a modern, French-inflected style thanks to the Sofitel group. Two restaurants, the MICHELIN-Starred Wild Honey and the adjacent Bistrot, will keep foodies happy.
St. James’s Hotel & Club: Part of the Althoff Collection, this hotel boasts one of London’s most gorgeous facades. The Victorian building is a striking red with standout white accents, and the interiors are just as stylish.
A row of Belgravia’s signature white stucco townhouses. © benedek/iStock
Knightsbridge & Belgravia: A Hotbed of Top-Tier Hotels These two neighbouring districts, lying south of Hyde Park and therefore a touch removed from the city centre, are among London’s most elegant areas. Belgravia is particularly known for its 19th-century white stucco townhouses, while Knightsbridge has a claim to being London’s best shopping neighbourhood, largely thanks to Harrods and Harvey Nichols, two high-end department stores to rule them all. With all this affluence and glamour comes hotels and restaurants of the very highest order. Don’t expect budget-friendly bistros and boltholes, but do expect the finest foods and fabrics.
Italian cuisine from the wine-focused Cantinetta Antinori and high-quality craft from Brooklands by Claude Bosi. © Jean Cazals/Cantinetta Antinori, © Sam Harris/Brooklands by Claude Bosi
Where to Eat in Knightsbridge & Belgravia Brooklands by Claude Bosi: A Two-MICHELIN-Star restaurant sitting atop the magnificent Peninsula hotel, the exceptional cooking here draws on the very best British ingredients from Scottish seafood to Lake District lamb.
Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay: One of London’s best MICHELIN-Star spots for wine lovers, this well-run restaurant offers an outstanding list with depth and variety – and the charming, knowledgeable wine service is a fitting match.
Cantinetta Antinori: Another one for the oenophiles, this Italian restaurant is owned by a Tuscan winemaking family and the excellent list includes their own acclaimed red wine. The classical cooking is rich and flavoursome.
The grand red-brick facade of the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park hotel in Knightsbridge. © Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
Where to Stay in Knightsbridge & Belgravia Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park: Several of London’s very best hotels are located near here, and this Three-MICHELIN-Key property leads the way with its unapologetic opulence, cavernous suites and stunning facade.
Bvlgari Hotel London: Another Three-Key landmark, this has all the high quality and perfectly calibrated style you would expect of the titular Italian fashion house. It’s low-key rather than overt luxury, but luxury all the same.
The Emory: Another one for high-rollers in a high-roller neighbourhood, this is London’s first all-suite hotel. That means you can spread out and relax in a way the capital rarely allows, all while admiring the impeccable design.
The majestic Westminster Abbey, one of the neighbourhood’s biggest attractions. © taikrixel/iStock
Westminster & Pimlico: Historic Buildings and Highlight Hotels Along with St James’s, Westminster is a must-visit neighbourhood if you’re on the sightseeing trail. Seeing the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben is on everyone’s bucket list, as is Westminster Abbey, but spare some time for the smaller but beautifully designed Westminster Cathedral too. In next-door Pimlico, you can get away from the biggest crowds while still feeling like you’re in central London. These aren’t districts packed with restaurants and hotels but, if you know where to look, there’s still some serious quality to be found – and we’re here to help you uncover it.
A. Wong’s cornucopia of Chinese cuisine and a carefully crafted drink from Quilon. © A. Wong, © John Carey/Quilon
Where to Eat in Westminster & Pimlico A. Wong: Easily the biggest reason for a foodie to visit Pimlico, this Two-MICHELIN-Star spot helped rewrite the rules for Chinese cuisine in the UK, thanks to its carefully choreographed journey through time and place, via flavour.
Quilon: Just south of St James’s Park, this is one of the rare British Indian restaurants to focus on just one region. The south and southwest of the country inspire dishes that are complex, subtly spiced and have a wonderful lightness.
Lorne: Just up the road from A. Wong, Lorne offers a relaxed neighbourhood restaurant vibe with a well-priced set menu that’s ideal for a lunchtime stop-off between activities. The cooking is fuss-free and flavoursome.
Cosy, plush interiors at Corinthia Hotel in the north of Westminster. © Corinthia Hotel London
Where to Stay in Westminster & Pimlico Corinthia Hotel London: One of a few top-tier hotels in Whitehall, at the northern end of Westminster, this 19th-century building is dripping in luxury, from its eye-catching lobby chandelier to the outrageously decadent Royal Penthouse.
Raffles London at The OWO: Another Whitehall spot and one of London’s elite Three-MICHELIN-Key hotels, the Raffles group have done a stunning job with this sensitive conversion inside the historic Old War Office.
Artist Residence London: The group’s hotels are known for their combination of playfulness and homeliness, and both are on display at this London outpost in the heart of Pimlico.
A Chelsea street enlivened by beautiful pink magnolia blossom. © serts/iStock
Chelsea: Neighbourhood Restaurants for Glamorous Neighbours For those unfamiliar with London neighbourhoods, Chelsea is something of a byword for affluent, upmarket districts. And unlike its football team, when it comes to food, money really does buy success here. Pierre Koffmann’s La Tante Claire was the first restaurant to really put it on the map, followed (in the same premises) by Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, which is still at the top of the tree today. Elsewhere, you’ll find several places with a neighbourhood feel – just in a very nice neighbourhood. They’re ideal for stopping by when visiting the Chelsea Flower Show or shopping on the King’s Road.
The Sea, The Sea and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, both great places to eat in Chelsea. © Matthew Rose/The Sea, The Sea, © Gordon Ramsay Restaurants/Restaurant Gordon Ramsay
Where to Eat in Chelsea Restaurant Gordon Ramsay: Still the neighbourhood’s crown jewel after all these years, it is a testament to the world’s best-known chef that his teams have consistently retained Three MICHELIN Stars.
The Sea, The Sea: All of the pedestrianised part of Pavilion Road is a joy to visit, not least this seafood restaurant and fishmonger’s which showcases how delicious stripped-back cooking can be with top-notch ingredients.
Elystan Street: The epitome of an understatedly sophisticated neighbourhood restaurant, this MICHELIN-Star spot has the informality for a light lunch and the sheer quality for a special occasion. The understated dishes belie the skill in the cooking.
The country house-esque style inside Beaverbrook Town House. © Beaverbrook Town House
Where to Stay in Chelsea Beaverbrook Town House: Its name says ‘townhouse’ but its design has more than a hint of country house, taking inspiration from its sibling manor in Surrey. Vibrant colours are a feature, as are occasional Japanese influences.
At Sloane: Nestled within a handsome Chelsea townhouse, there’s a touch of French flair here, thanks to hotelier Jean-Louis Costes and designer Francois-Joseph Graf. Resident DJs enliven the lower-floor bar.
11 Cadogan Gardens: At this prestigious address, the 56 rooms and suites are all uniquely designed, which means that your quarters could hark back to the building’s Victorian origins or infuse them with a distinctly modern touch.
A gorgeous row of townhouses in affluent Kensington. © Alexey_Fedoren/iStock
Kensington: Foodie Finds in the Museum District West of the city centre, this is one of London’s bigger neighbourhoods and is often split into North and South Kensington. The former is best known for Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park’s twin green space, and Kensington Palace, the official London residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales. South Kensington, meanwhile, is home to a top class-trio: the Natural History Museum, Science Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum. When it comes to restaurants, like Chelsea, Kensington is less about big-name chefs and lavish dining rooms and more about neighbourhood spots with a high-end feel.
Dishes from neighbourhood spot Kitchen W8 and Greek restaurant Myrtos. © Kitchen W8, © Claude Okamoto/Myrtos
Where to Eat in Kensington Kitchen W8: MICHELIN-Starred dining with a relaxed, local feel and sensible prices is the headline here and, honestly, who wouldn’t want that? Great ingredients and a skilled hand result in straightforwardly enjoyable food.
Clarke’s: A neighbourhood haunt for over 40 years, Sally Clarke’s restaurant continues to keep its loyal locals happy with its comforting atmosphere and cooking. A shop across the road is ideal for provisions.
Myrtos: There’s an appropriately bright, sunny feel to this Greek restaurant where the sharing dishes will instantly transport you to the Mediterranean. More Greek dishes can be found in Kensington at Mazi.
Inside The Kensington, one of the neighbourhood’s townhouses-turned-hotels with a stylish touch. © The Kensington
Where to Stay in Kensington The Adria: The kind of townhouse-turned-boutique-hotel that you find so often in London, The Adria treads a nice line between the classic and the contemporary. It’s refined, elegant and with a few splashes of colour.
The Kensington: Another townhouse (or rather, several townhouses), The Kensington is quite traditional in its style and has an ideal location near the top museums and the Royal Albert Hall. It’s also relatively well priced for a London hotel.
60 Hyde Park Gate Hotel: This Italian-influenced hotel has an unashamed kind of decadence, full of rich, dark hues and plush furnishings. When you’re craving a shot of greenery, Kensington Gardens are right outside.
The bustling Borough Market with the UK’s tallest building, The Shard, in the background. © D. Lentz/iStock
London Bridge & Borough Market: Well Worth the Crowds Borough Market is really a single destination, a permanently bustling hub filled with foodie delights, rather than a neighbourhood, but there are now so many restaurants gathered in this spot south of the river that it’s become a culinary go-to. Several great value international restaurants are clustered around the market, while you don’t have to walk far to find more MICHELIN-Star quality. As well as the market, make sure you take time to explore London Bridge itself – from which you get a great view of the Thames and Tower Bridge – and The Shard, the UK’s tallest building.
Mussels from OMA near Borough Market and the vibrant cooking from Two-MICHELIN-Star Trivet. © Gilles Draps/OMA, © alex.amedeo/Trivet
Where to Eat in London Bridge & Borough Market Trivet: The neighbourhood’s best restaurant, a short walk away from Borough Market, is this Two-MICHELIN-Star spot where the cooking is imaginative and thrillingly flavoursome, while the wine list is one for enthusiasts.
Kolae: On the edge of the market, this lively restaurant provides a snapshot of southern Thai cuisine, from the signature grilled mussel skewers to a great selection for vegans. The set menu offers the best value.
OMA & AGORA: Not one restaurant but two, one with a MICHELIN Star and the other a Bib Gourmand, this Greek-influenced duo offer fabulous food and a rollicking good time. You can book the Star, but the Bib ‘souvla bar’ is mostly for walk-ins.
One of the suites at Shangri-La The Shard, with views across all the London skyline. © Shangri-La The Shard
Where to Stay in London Bridge & Borough Market Shangri-La The Shard: It makes sense that London’s tallest skyscraper would house a hotel, giving its guests some of the best views in the city. All the trappings of a great luxury hotel are here, just higher up than usual.
The Lalit London: Unique amongst London hotels, The Lalit occupies a red-brick former school from the Victorian era but is decked out with colourful, Indian-influenced interiors. The lavish bathrooms are a highlight.
The Brutalist architecture of the National Theatre on London’s South Bank. © CHUNYIP WONG/iStock
South Bank: A Riverside Cultural Cornucopia If Knightsbridge is for the shoppers and Soho is for the partyers, the South Bank is for the arty types. So-called for its position just south of the River Thames, it’s home to the Southbank Centre, comprising multiple gallery and performance spaces; the British Film Institute’s headquarters, screening acclaimed films and hosting Q&As with industry titans; and the National Theatre, with a regularly changing lineup of shows featuring the cream of British acting talent. To top it all off, there’s even a restaurant inside the theatre…
Dishes from Lasdun and Bala Baya near London’s South Bank neighbourhood. © Anton Rodriguez/Lasdun, © BCA Photography/Bala Baya
Where to Eat on the South Bank Lasdun: Named after the architect of its divisive Brutalist building, the National Theatre’s on-site restaurant will be busiest before and after a show – so time your meal accordingly. The cooking is unfussy and flavoursome, using great British ingredients.
Anchor & Hope: One of London’s many dining pubs, this one puts a slight twist on the formula by introducing occasional European touches to its menus – such as cavatelli with aubergines, red peppers and olives.
Bala Baya: Technically outside the South Bank and towards London Bridge, but still worth seeking out, this energetic restaurant showcases the bright, fresh flavours of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking.
Sea Containers London, an imposing hotel sitting on the South Bank of the Thames. © Sea Containers London
Where to Stay on the South Bank Sea Containers London: A vast, imposing riverside property, there’s an ocean liner-esque quality here, alongside some eye-catching art deco touches. Look out in particular for the nautically inspired Lyaness cocktail bar.
The Hoxton, Southwark: One of the East London-born brand’s more recent openings, this branch sports the same signature style: industrial-chic interiors with eclectic accents and buzzy common spaces.
A residential street in Peckham, with central London in the background. © JohnnyGreig/iStock
Peckham: Local Restaurants with Global Flavours If you ever get tired of central London, head out to its more residential neighbourhoods. In particular, South London areas like Clapham, Wimbledon and Richmond are all places where more people live, so their restaurants have a greater warming, local feel. Situated southeast of the centre, Peckham is perhaps the pick of the bunch, with a cluster of top restaurants embracing international cuisines and providing brilliant value for money. Being so far from the tourist areas, there aren’t many hotel options around here, but it’s great if you want to see a different side of London.
Lai Rai and Kruk in Peckham, both offering the flavours of Southeast Asia. © Teo Della Torre/Lai Rai, © Anisha Chauhan/Kruk
Where to Eat in Peckham Lai Rai: One of three Bib Gourmand-awarded spots within 10 minutes’ walk of each other, this one is all about the delicious flavours of Vietnam. Expect bánh mì in the daytime followed by moreish sharing plates in the evening.
Kruk: Staying in Southeast Asia, this lively, simply decorated spot transports the taste of Thailand to London. Situated under a railway arch, the buzz of diners enjoying spicy, big-flavoured dishes rattles off the walls.
Artusi: It’s Italy’s turn now, with this proudly run little restaurant that offers delicious homemade pasta. It’s the kind of generous, well-priced cooking with zero fuss and maximum flavour that you want to eat every week.
Hero Image: Mount St Gardens in Mayfair, one of the best neighbourhoods to eat and stay in London. © Joanna Yee/MICHELIN Guide
Written by
Andrew Young
Andrew is the MICHELIN Guide’s Restaurant & Travel Editor for the UK and Republic of Ireland. Originally from Manchester, he is now based in London and loves exploring cuisines from around the world.
Dining and Cooking