London has long been a haven of top restaurants and bars, with people travelling from far and wide to visit what are considered some of the best restaurants in the world. And with all of the capital’s spoils (almost) on our doorstep, here’s our pick of the best places to eat on your next trip to London. 

The Fan Favourite – Zuma London

A celebrity and foodie favourite, Zuma is one of the most established and well-regarded Japanese restaurants not just in London but around the world. The very first Zuma opened its doors in London 21 years ago, but this restaurant is certainly not stuck in the past. Zuma remains a must-visit for those looking for a sophisticated take on Japanese izakaya-style dining. 

“2023 sees Zuma London celebrating our 21st anniversary. As the original flagship location of what is now an international restaurant group, we are thankful to all our guests over the years for their custom. For those who haven’t visited yet, the miso black cod is a firm fan favourite!”, according to General Manager Natalia Pasich. 

Must try: Miso marinated black cod wrapped in hoba leaf

Zuma London, 5 Raphael St, London SW7 1DL

Open every day for lunch 12 noon-3pm & dinner 6pm-11.30pm

The New Kid on the Block – Pavyllon London

Fresh on the block, Pavyllon London opened its doors on the 1st of July and is much more than a new restaurant, marking the arrival of the lauded French chef Yannick Alléno to the capital. Famous for his sauce techniques, guests can expect a creative, ever-changing menu with dishes rooted in French gastronomy, inspired by Great British produce. 

Chef Yannick told us: “Pavyllon London is an embodiment of my lifelong dream to redefine French dining. It combines my family’s bistro-running legacy with my passion for culinary innovation. I am so thrilled to now be open in London, after dreaming of this for many years, and look forward to welcoming guests to Pavyllon London so they can experience our live kitchen counter dining for themselves!”

Must try: Thin langoustine tart with osciètre caviar 

Pavyllon London, Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, Hamilton Place, London W1J 7DR

Open for breakfast 6.30am-11am, lunch 12pm-5.30pm & dinner 6pm-10.30pm

The Theatrical Steakhouse – Grill 88 

Another freshly opened restaurant to try is Grill 88, located within The Biltmore Mayfair on Grosvenor Square. Fast becoming a go-to spot for convivial dinners, private gatherings and celebrations, Grill 88 serves up high-quality steaks and seafood, all grilled over specially sourced Holm Oak charcoal. For a touch of theatre, you can order steak cooked live at the table on Himalayan salt, or peek into the open-plan kitchen. 

“When I designed the menu, I wanted to create a variety of prime beef cuts, including grain-fed Japanese A5 Kagoshima black breed ribeye wagyu, and large cuts to share, including the full-blood wagyu Chateaubriand,” said Executive Chef Luis Campos. 

Must try: Black pork Iberico presa, cooked at the table 

Grill 88, The Biltmore Mayfair, 44 Grosvenor Square, London W1K 2HP

Open Tuesday-Sunday from 6pm-10.30pm 

The Quintessentially British Spot – Charlie’s

Charlie’s at Brown’s Hotel in the heart of Mayfair is the perfect place for all the family. With menus overseen by Chef Director Adam Byatt (of Trinity fame), Charlie’s is serving up a revitalised menu of British classics with European influences, using exceptional local produce. 

New Head Chef, Michael Shaw, told us: “At Charlie’s we strive to incorporate the finest British ingredients and create a truly unique dining experience for our guests. We evolve the menu frequently to coincide with the changing seasons to deliver classic dishes but with a modern twist.” 

Must try: Charlie’s Sunday roast, served from a silver trolley

Charlie’s, Brown’s Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel, Albemarle Street, Mayfair, London W1S 4BP

Open Monday-Saturday for lunch 12 noon-3pm & dinner 6pm-10pm; Sunday for lunch 12.30pm-3.30pm

The Grande Dame of East-meets-West – Sumosan Twiga

Located in Knightsbridge, Sumosan Twiga is a unique spot that brings together the culinary excellence of the Japanese Sumosan restaurants and the Italian Twiga by Flavio Briatore. But this is much more than a restaurant. Pay a visit to the bar for sundowner cocktails, to the restaurant for dinner, or to the downstairs club for late-night festivities to the soundtrack of world-class DJs. 

Through the summer, this Knightsbridge institution has undergone a dramatic transformation, opening its doors with a whole new look this September. Whether you’re a Japanese food lover or prefer Italian flavours, Sumosan Twiga really does give the best of both, with two menus that combine the beauty of Japanese culture with the timeless magic of Italian tradition. 

Must try: Wagyu sando sandwich or the salted crusted branzino

Sumosan Twiga, 165 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9QB

Monday-Thursday from 6.30pm-1am, Friday-Sunday from 7pm-2am