The Best Romantic Restaurants in London
Whether you’re visiting London for the first time or are a long-time resident, you’ll want to check out the most romantic restaurants in London. If you’re in the mood for some good old-fashioned romancing, then you’ve come to the right place. Whether it’s an understated, ostentatious, or atmospheric night you’re after, this list will have those brownie points firmly marked.
Luca, Clerkenwell
This romantic spot owned by the esteemed Clove Club does it all. The casual and Instagrammable setting isn’t even the highlight here, the food is. With a modern, traditional and inviting feel, Luca is quickly becoming a lot of foodies ‘favourite restaurant in London’. It’s great for date night and the epitome of ‘cool dining’.
Have to try: Parmesan fries
Perfect for: Foodies
Approx price for 2 people: Medium £150 for 2 with booze
Le Gavroche, Mayfair
They say the French are romancers for a reason, another fine dining experience belonging to the illustrious Michel Roux Jr. If you’re lucky you may even catch him checking in with you after dinner; now that’s what I call service. Stay for dessert and indulge in selections from their spectacular cheese trolley.
Have to try: Beef stew
Perfect for: French lovers
Approx price for 2 people: Pricey, £200 for 2 but worth the bucks
Casse-Croute, Bermondsey
Understated, intimate and cosy is this little French gem on the corner of Bermondsey Street. But don’t be put off by first impressions, despite the small size, the quality of food more than compensates and you’ll soon be swooning over the daily changing menu, with a glass of Viognier, or two. The epitome of charm, Casse-Croute is arguably Bermondsey’s best kept secret.
Have to try: Enjoy the element of surprise of the ever-changing menu
Perfect for: Couples that like the classics
Approx price for 2 people: Medium £100-£150 for 2, dependent on drinks
Bacchalania, Mayfair
The newest addition to the Caprice Holdings venture, Bacchalania has the wow factor that many West End restaurants lack. The ostentatious interiors, particularly the awe-inspiring sculptures, courtesy of Damien Hirst, deems it one of the ‘seen’ places in Mayfair. Enjoy Mediterranean pasta, seafood and meats while the atmosphere has you digesting far more than the cuisine.
Have to try: Lobster pasta
Perfect for: 5th dates
Approx price for 2 people: Expenny, around £200 for 2
Clos Maggiore, Covent Garden
A ceiling adorned with flowers, white tablecloths and round tables, this picture-perfect spot in the heart of Covent Garden puts most romantic movies to shame. Serving hearty French cuisine (if the name wasn’t a giveaway), enjoy each others company as you sip on wine and let the night evolve into magnificence.
Have to try: Roasted monkfish
Perfect for: Anniversary’s and Birthday treats
Approx price for 2 people: Expensive, £180+ for dinner and drinks
Hutong, London Bridge
If you’re stopping by the UK’s tallest building, The Shard, chances are it’s for a date. Located on the 33rd floor, this sky-high Chinese restaurant boasts intimate low lighting and an abundance of red Chinese lamps, if that doesn’t scream romance, we don’t know what does. Enjoy blazing dishes and breath-taking views way up high.
Have to try: Lobster bao & wagyu beef mille-feuille
Perfect for: Thrill seekers
Approx price for 2 people: £250+ for 2, but you’re in The Shard
sketch, Oxford Circus
Not just your average bar and restaurant, Sketch’s expansive portfolio covers food drink, music and art, making for a destination restaurant for lovers of the finer things. Opt for a civilised afternoon tea in the Lecture Room & Library, breakfast in The Parlour, or dinner in The Gallery as your date marvels at the grandiose surroundings.
Have to try: Venison served two ways
Perfect for: Protectors of the arts
Approx price for 2 people: Expenny..£200 for 2 with drinks
The Maine Mayfair
This iconic West End hotspot boasts decadent dining, drinks and cabaret in a historic townhouse venue. Enjoy fine New England cuisine in the glitz and glamour whilst giving Mr Gatsby a run for his money, a little party never killed nobody hey. They have a Saturday brunch, happy hour on weekdays and If you’re an oyster lover, enjoy fresh oysters for £1 a shuck EVERY weekday 4-6pm.
Have to try: Chicken and waffles
Perfect for: Couples that love a party
Approx price for 2 people: Up to £200 for 2, depending on which bargain you bag
Bob Bob Ricard, Soho
The famous press for champagne will never tire in our eyes. What better way to impress your other half than a bottle of bubbly, seemingly appearing out of thin air. Diners love the glamorous setting, meat orientated menu, but the star of the show goes to the BBR Signature Chocolate Glory dessert.
Have to try: Beef wellington for 2
Perfect for: Champagne drinkers
Approx price for 2 people: £180+ with drinks, but it is date night
Cichetti, Piccadilly Circus
The genius behind the San Carlo restaurant group has done it again. For moreish Italian in a lavish setting, this is definitely one to have up your sleeve. Located in Piccadilly, it’s perfect for pre-theatre dining if that’s your plan for part 2 of your date. The concept is small plates here so you can try a lot of different things and not be too full, if that’s something to be considered.
Have to try: Veal Milanese
Perfect for: Lovers of Italy
Approx price for 2 people: Medium £100+ if you’re drinking