London is a dream for food lovers, and I made it my mission to eat my way through some of the best spots in the city. From cozy Italian fine dining to sky-high restaurants with breathtaking views, every meal was an experience. Some places impressed me with their flavors and service, while others had a few surprises.
When I was last in London, the weather was rainy and chilly, but that didn’t stop me from trying some incredible restaurants. If you’re searching for a Michelin-starred tasting menu or a bite from a historic market stall, London has plenty to explore.
Aulis London
Awarded its first Michelin star in the 2024 UK & Northern Ireland Michelin Guide, Aulis is a true celebration of innovation and flavor. With its 12-seater chef’s table, it offers an intimate and up-close look at culinary artistry. The 15-course tasting menu highlights seasonal ingredients, many sourced from Simon Rogan’s own farm, ensuring every bite is fresh and thoughtfully prepared. Being able to engage directly with the chefs also added a personal and immersive touch that elevated the experience beyond just great food.
The Dorset Blue Lobster dish stood out. The lobster’s natural sweetness worked well with the deep, umami flavor of the fermented black garlic. The roasted shrimp sauce was rich and intense, with a slight lift from the rosehips. I appreciated the balance of flavors—definitely one of the most memorable courses of the night.
Pro tip: With only a handful of seats available, make your reservation at least three months in advance to secure a table. Reservations can be made online through their booking page, or join their newsletter and get notified when they open new bookings.
Ting Restaurant
Perched within The Shard, Ting offers panoramic views of London’s skyline, making it an unforgettable setting. The Asian-fusion menu combines Eastern flavors with Western techniques, creating a unique blend of flavors that intrigued me from the start. While the food was exceptional, the service didn’t quite match the standard—I had to request the drink menu and remind the staff to take my order. There were other little service issues throughout the night, and while not unhappy with the service, it didn’t quite match the price point of the restaurant. Still, the stunning ambiance and tasty dishes made the visit worthwhile.
I had the set menu, which I shared with a friend. Standouts included the Char Siu Pork Belly, which has a good balance of sweetness and smokiness, with tender meat and a caramelized glaze. The pineapple adds acidity to cut through the richness, while the greens provide a fresh contrast. The salt and vinegar pork crackling brings a crisp texture and tangy bite, rounding out the dish well.
Murano
Dining at Murano is an inviting space, perfect for an intimate gathering. Notably, the restaurant has held a Michelin star since 2009, reflecting its consistent dedication to quality and excellence. The atmosphere struck a balance between cozy and elegant, making it an ideal setting to savor a thoughtfully curated meal. Opting for the set menu, I experienced Italian culinary excellence in every course, each dish showcasing precision and rich flavors.
My favorite dish was the Barolo & Salumi Carnaroli Risotto, which combined rich flavors and textures. The Carnaroli rice, known for its creamy consistency, was infused with Barolo wine, imparting a deep, robust flavor. The addition of salumi introduced a savory element, while Parmigiano Reggiano added a sharp, nutty taste.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Dinner received its first Michelin star in 2012, just nine months after opening, and was awarded a second star in 2014, which it has maintained since. The restaurant’s open kitchen provided a fascinating view of the chefs at work, adding an element of theater to the dining experience. The tasting menu took me on a journey through British culinary history, with each dish meticulously crafted based on historical recipes. It was a deep dive into flavors and techniques that had stood the test of time, reimagined in the most creative ways.
I tried the Hay Smoked Salmon, and the first thing I noticed was the gentle smokiness—it didn’t overpower the fish but added a nice depth. The salmon itself was silky and rich, and the lemon salad with sorrel gave it just the right amount of freshness. The gentleman’s relish was a surprise; it brought a deep, savory kick that tied everything together. It felt like a carefully balanced dish, both comforting and refined.
Pro Tip: Save room for the ice cream cart—a delightful tableside performance that adds a sweet finale to the meal.
The Ivy Market Grill
The Ivy Market Grill carries a rich history—once an exclusive haunt but now a welcoming space for all to enjoy its storied ambiance. Opened in 2014 in Covent Garden as part of The Ivy Collection, it brings the iconic brand’s legacy to a wider audience. The restaurant offers all-day dining, including breakfast, afternoon tea, and pre-theatre menus, with a terrace overlooking the bustling piazza. Stepping inside, I could feel the charm of its past blending seamlessly with a lively, modern atmosphere.
I started with the zucchini fries, which were crisp, light, and well-seasoned—a great vegetarian option. The menu had something for everyone, from fresh, veggie-forward dishes to comforting classics. The cottage pie stood out with its rich, slow-cooked beef and velvety cheddar mashed potatoes. It was simple yet deeply satisfying, capturing the essence of British comfort food.
Skylon
Perched on the third floor of the Royal Festival Hall, Skylon offers stunning views of the Thames through its floor-to-ceiling windows. The restaurant’s mid-century modern design, inspired by the 1951 Festival of Britain, adds to its sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance. The expansive dining area, complemented by a vibrant bar, creates a lively atmosphere ideal for pre-dinner drinks or a celebratory meal. Though it previously held a Michelin Guide listing, Skylon continues to impress with its seasonal British menu and creative cocktails.
I tried the Skylon Fish Pie, which had a rich, creamy filling with beautifully cooked fish and a hint of smokiness. The buttery mashed potato topping was smooth but slightly overwhelming. It arrived warm, though I wished the center had been hotter for a more satisfying bite.
Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar
Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar, housed in the historic Marriott County Hall Hotel, offers stunning views of the Thames, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament. Named after the 18th-century caricaturist James Gillray, the restaurant embraces England’s rich political history with satirical artwork lining the walls. The menu focuses on prime cuts of locally sourced British beef, including the signature 1kg ‘Longhorn’ ribeye, dry-aged for 42 days. The bar boasts an impressive selection of over 100 gins, celebrating a quintessential aspect of English culture.
I tried the Delica Squash Wellington and enjoyed its rich, buttery pastry and naturally sweet squash filling. The caramelized walnut and sage added depth, making it hearty yet balanced. Though it took longer to arrive, the crisp pastry and warm, flavorful filling made it worth the wait.
Borough Market
Borough Market is a hub for food lovers, offering an incredible variety of artisanal products and street food. Established over 1,000 years ago, it remains one of London’s oldest and most famous markets. Walking through, the rich aromas and vibrant displays, from freshly baked bread to exotic spices, drew me in.
I had to try the chocolate-covered strawberries at Borough Market, a viral TikTok sensation. They were drizzled with hot melted chocolate, making them an irresistible treat. The salt beef beigel, packed with tender, flavorful meat and sharp mustard, was another highlight. Be sure to also try the sausage rolls, freshly shucked oysters, and cheese from Neal’s Yard Dairy for a well-rounded experience.
Future Plans
On my next visit, I plan to eat my way around Harrods’ Food Hall, known for its opulent food counters and gourmet selections. I also want to indulge in a Sunday roast at Roast, a celebrated spot in Borough Market famous for its perfectly cooked meats and traditional British fare. Afternoon tea at a historic venue, perhaps The Ritz or Claridge’s, is also on my list for a quintessential London experience.
A Food Lover’s Journey Through London
Eating my way through London was filled with incredible flavors, stunning views, and a few surprises. Some restaurants wowed me with impeccable service and unforgettable dishes, while others left room for improvement. With so many more culinary options to discover, I can’t wait for my next trip back to explore even more of London’s food scene.