Traditional Tastes, Contemporary Twists: 13 Must-Visit British Restaurants in London
London is a city where classic British cuisine meets modern innovation. Whether you’re into historic venues or bold, creative twists on traditional dishes, this list covers the best British restaurants to check out. Here’s a quick rundown:
- The Quality Chop House: Historic charm with modern British dishes like confit potatoes.
- Claridge’s Restaurant: Refined classics in a luxurious Mayfair setting.
- The Water House Project: Seasonal tasting menus blending British and Nordic influences.
- Dans le Noir?: Dine in complete darkness for a sensory experience.
- St. John Smithfield: Celebrating nose-to-tail dining with inventive use of ingredients.
- The Jugged Hare: Game-focused dishes and standout Sunday roasts.
- Core by Clare Smyth: Three Michelin stars with a focus on British ingredients.
- The Ritz Restaurant: Elegant fine dining with tableside service.
- Blacklock Shoreditch: A modern chophouse with affordable, smoky meats.
- Wiltons Restaurant: Over 280 years of seafood and game expertise.
- The Grill by Tom Booton: Young, fresh takes on British fine dining.
- Apricity: Zero-waste dining with seasonal, sustainable ingredients.
- Fallow: A zero-waste approach with innovative, local dishes.
Quick Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Quality Chop House | Confit potatoes, meats | £36–£138 | Historic charm, butcher shop next door |
| Claridge's Restaurant | Buckwheat crumpets, seafood | £20–£145 | Luxurious Art Deco design |
| The Water House Project | Seasonal tasting menu | £157–£195 | Communal dining, Nordic influence |
| Dans le Noir? | Dining in total darkness | Varies | Focus on sensory experience |
| St. John Smithfield | Nose-to-tail dining | Varies | Creative use of every part of the animal |
| The Jugged Hare | Game dishes, Sunday roasts | Varies | Seasonal game and wild ingredients |
| Core by Clare Smyth | Tasting menus, British focus | £235–£273 | 3 Michelin stars |
| The Ritz Restaurant | Fine dining, tableside service | £100–£231 | Elegant setting, live music weekends |
| Blacklock Shoreditch | Smoky meats, Sunday roasts | £21–£34 | Retro chophouse vibe |
| Wiltons Restaurant | Seafood, seasonal game | Varies | 280+ years of history |
| The Grill by Tom Booton | Modern British dishes | £5.75–£83 | Youngest head chef at The Dorchester |
| Apricity | Zero-waste, seasonal menu | Varies | Michelin Green Star |
| Fallow | Sustainable, local dishes | Varies | Zero-waste focus |
These restaurants showcase the best of British cooking, blending tradition with modern techniques. Whether you’re after high-end dining or casual charm, there’s something here for every taste.
Top 5 Most Historic London Restaurants
Updated British Classics
Chefs are reimagining classic British dishes, blending time-honored traditions with modern techniques. This approach allows them to preserve the heart of these recipes while giving them a fresh twist, often seen in historic venues that put a new spin on old favorites.
Take The Quality Chop House, for example. Founded in 1869, this iconic spot has transformed into a hub for modern British cuisine without losing its heritage charm. Their standout dish? Confit potatoes paired with top-tier cuts of meat - a perfect example of how traditional recipes can shine with updated cooking methods.
At Claridge's Restaurant in Mayfair, classics get a refined makeover. Their buckwheat crumpets topped with black truffle offer a luxurious take on a breakfast classic. By adding these subtle, thoughtful touches, they honor British culinary traditions while shaping its future.
New British Cooking
British cuisine is evolving as chefs blend modern ideas with traditional roots. This movement focuses on hyperlocal ingredients, seasonal produce, and techniques that respect classic methods while exploring new possibilities.
At The Water House Project, the team highlights vegetables, combining Japanese grilling methods with traditional British practices like pickling and fermenting. Their approach showcases the importance of technique and working with the seasons, a trend gaining momentum across the British culinary scene.
This shift isn't just about methods - it's also about embracing the rich variety of influences within British food. Chef Andrew Wong sums it up perfectly:
"Britain's cosmopolitan nature is what sets it apart from the rest of the world. British food is about celebrating not only a diversity of incredible ingredients but also an unrivalled diversity of cultures, craft and cuisines."
Chef Theo Randall adds his perspective on this approach:
"Modern British food is all about ingredients and we have an amazing natural larder of wonderful British produce on our doorstep. I am British born, with an Italian soul. This way I get the best of both worlds, classic Italian techniques with the finest produce our country has to offer."
Relaxed British Dining
London's casual dining scene offers a mix of excellent food and welcoming vibes. With modern twists on British classics, these eateries show that top-notch cuisine can thrive in a laid-back atmosphere.
Take The Quality Chop House, for example. Known for its historic, cozy interiors, this spot serves a sustainable nose-to-tail menu. Their standout dishes include perfectly cooked meats and their famous confit potatoes.
Blacklock Shoreditch brings a fresh take to the traditional British chop house. Nestled in trendy Shoreditch, it’s the go-to for smoky, crusted cuts of meat. The industrial-chic decor makes it a great pick for anything from group outings to solo meals.
Close to Columbia Road flower market, Marksman Public House blends a classic pub vibe with elevated British cuisine. Chefs Tom Harris and Jon Rotheram serve up stylish spins on traditional dishes like potted shrimps and devilled mussels.
For something more intimate, Rochelle Canteen is a hidden gem in a converted bike shed. Its ever-changing menu focuses on seasonal ingredients and simple, classic preparations, all in a relaxed setting.
In Bloomsbury, Cafe Deco offers a modern approach to British cooking. The casual atmosphere pairs perfectly with ingredient-focused dishes that honor traditional flavors.
These restaurants prove that you don’t need a formal setting to enjoy world-class British food. They’ve mastered the art of combining refined cooking with a welcoming, down-to-earth charm that appeals to locals and visitors alike.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots
Explore some lesser-known culinary destinations that are bringing a fresh twist to British cuisine. These spots stand out for their bold approaches to traditional flavors.
The Water House Project, located at 1 Corbridge Crescent in East London, has been redefining fine dining since 2015. This restaurant offers a nine-course tasting menu that changes monthly, featuring seasonal British ingredients with a Nordic touch. Recent standout dishes include a pork belly donut paired with plum chutney and a Craster kipper mousse topped with shiso.
"Our Chef's gastronomic and creative cuisine is based on the selection of high quality ingredients. All our menus are tested and improved through tastings by sensory experts in pitch darkness." - Dans le Noir? Restaurant
For a completely unique experience, Dans le Noir?, at 69-73 St John Street, invites guests to dine in total darkness. This concept encourages diners to focus entirely on taste and texture, with blind wine tastings led by sensory experts.
At St. John Smithfield, located at 26 St John Street in Barbican, nose-to-tail dining takes center stage. This restaurant showcases the full potential of British ingredients by creatively using every part of the animal.
For a menu inspired by British game and wild ingredients, check out The Jugged Hare. Known for its seasonal offerings and daily-changing menu, this spot has earned a reputation for its standout Sunday Roasts.
These venues celebrate traditional British flavors while pushing boundaries, proving that some of London's most exciting dining experiences are found off the beaten path.
High-End British Restaurants
London's upscale dining scene combines rich culinary traditions with modern techniques, creating an unforgettable experience. These high-end restaurants offer not just impeccable service but also dishes crafted with care and precision in sophisticated settings.
Claridge's takes British classics to the next level with refined methods and premium ingredients. Their philosophy is simple yet impactful:
"Showcasing seasonal, locally sourced produce, classic dishes here are elevated with a signature Claridge's spin." – Claridge's Restaurant
Wiltons, a cornerstone of British fine dining since 1742, remains a benchmark for quality. Known for its seafood, including oysters once favored by Queen Victoria, the restaurant also serves seasonal delights like roast grouse and turbot.
For a modern twist, Core by Clare Smyth focuses on sustainable, ingredient-driven cuisine. The tasting menu showcases dishes like Isle of Mull scallop and Cornish lamb, presented in a sleek, contemporary setting.
| Restaurant | Signature Dish | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Claridge's | Buckwheat crumpets with black truffle | Seasonal ingredients with a modern touch |
| Wiltons | Seasonal roast grouse | Established in 1742 |
| Core by Clare Smyth | Isle of Mull scallop | Emphasis on sustainability |
These establishments seamlessly combine traditional recipes with modern flair, setting a high bar for British cuisine.
1. The Water House Project
What started as a supper club in Gabriel Waterhouse's flat back in 2015 has grown into one of East London's must-visit dining spots. The Water House Project strikes a balance between fine dining sophistication and a laid-back, welcoming vibe.
The menu changes every three months, showcasing the best of seasonal British ingredients. Beyond the food, the restaurant emphasizes working with ethical, small-scale producers, making sustainability a priority in every aspect.
A spokesperson explains the restaurant's vision:
"Gabriel opened the Water House Project with his wife, Patricia in Bethnal Green in Autumn 2021 aiming to bridge the gap between fine dining elegance and a more relaxed, comfortable atmosphere." - The Water House Project
Dining here feels more like an intimate dinner party than a typical restaurant experience. Guests are seated together for a single, communal service, and the open-plan kitchen encourages interaction with the chefs.
| Menu Option | Courses | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Seasons Discovery | 10 servings, 5 pairings | $157 |
| Seasons Signature | 12 servings, 6 pairings | $195 |
Chef Gabriel Waterhouse brings impressive experience from places like The Ritz and Le Manoir Aux Quat'Saisons. His cooking combines traditional methods like fermentation, drying, and pickling with modern techniques to create flavors that stand out. The Nordic-inspired decor and open kitchen, which serves up to 40 guests, perfectly match the restaurant's creative energy. Guests can also enjoy unique non-alcoholic infusions crafted as thoughtful wine alternatives.
"First-rate cooking and relaxed informality define The Water House Project - reserve your seat promptly." - The Guide Magazine
The restaurant caters to vegetarian and pescatarian diets with advance notice and can adjust for nut allergies or gluten intolerances. Its focus on seasonal ingredients, personalized service, and cozy atmosphere has made The Water House Project a highlight of London's dining scene.
2. Claridge's Restaurant Mayfair
Let's take a closer look at Claridge's Restaurant in Mayfair, a standout in London's refined British dining scene.
Housed within the iconic Claridge's hotel, this restaurant reopened in 2023 after an 18-month transformation led by Bryan O'Sullivan Studio. The redesign merges the hotel's historic Art Deco elegance with a modern dining atmosphere. Inside, you'll find soaring double-height ceilings, luxurious Calcutta Viola marble, a tortoiseshell bar, green leather banquettes under starburst skylights by Guy Oliver, and curated artworks from Claridge's private collection.
"To be given this legendary space at Claridge's is a total designer's dream. We immersed ourselves in the extensive archive for inspiration, with the goal of reimagining the restaurant as if it had always been part of the hotel's fabric." - Bryan O'Sullivan
The menu highlights the best of British ingredients, giving classic dishes a fresh twist. Here are some standout items:
| Dish | Price |
|---|---|
| Plateau de Fruits de Mer (for one/two) | $57/$114 |
| Black Truffle Crumpet | $20 |
| Grilled Native Lobster | $101 |
| Grilled Cornish Turbot (for one/two) | $73/$145 |
For wine enthusiasts, the restaurant offers a unique perk: guests can pre-order wines from Claridge's Wine Cellar at retail prices, with no corkage fee.
"It's British. It's luxury. And it's going to make the ordinary, extraordinary." - Imogen Clark
The dining setup caters to all preferences, with cozy, intimate spaces alongside a lively bar area. For Sunday lunch, expect indulgent options like truffle-stuffed Norfolk chicken, traditional roast beef, wild turbot Grenobloise, and stuffed lamb saddle, all served with seasonal sides.
3. Bronek's Fish Restaurant
Bronek's Fish Restaurant, tucked away on Northfield Avenue in West London, combines British seafood classics with a Polish twist. This family-run spot, led by its namesake Bronek, offers a warm, personal touch. Bronek himself often mingles with diners, taking special requests and snapping photos, earning him local fame. As The Infatuation puts it (rating 7.9):
"At the helm is Bronek, the affable captain of this ship/seafood spot, who shuffles between the kitchen and the dining room, taking off-menu orders and photographs with diners like the Ealing celebrity that he is".
The menu is a mix of traditional and creative seafood dishes, all made with locally sourced ingredients to ensure top-notch quality. Here’s a quick look at the pricing:
| Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Starters | from $10 |
| Main Courses | from $26 |
| Signature Donburi Bowls | $13–$20 |
Bronek's also caters to diverse dietary needs with gluten-free, vegan, and halal-certified options, alongside a kids' menu. There's even a private dining room for special occasions.
Conveniently located just 0.2 miles from Northfields Tube Station, the restaurant's bold, maximalist décor sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. One standout feature is the live lobster tanks, allowing diners to handpick their meal. And for a unique twist, the menu includes Caribbean-inspired sides like rice and peas, adding a fresh layer of flavor to the mix.
4. The Shoap
Located just south of Angel Tube station, The Shoap has quickly gained attention as a go-to spot for fresh takes on Scottish cuisine. Founded by Glaswegian and former economist Gregg Boyd, this hybrid café, food shop, and bar proudly calls itself "London's first Scottish deli".
The space, with its whitewashed industrial vibe, offers a playful twist on well-loved Scottish dishes. Jimi Famurewa from the Evening Standard captures the essence of the place:
"The Shoap by Auld Hag springs from this same well of playful patriotism... its wry commitment to an unlikely culinary idea, and desire to fly the saltire for a grievously misunderstood food culture, genuinely transcends ancestry."
The menu is packed with inventive takes on classics. Some highlights include:
| Signature Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Scottish Tacos | Potato scones by Archbold's, topped with veggie haggis and Edinburgh's Leithal hot sauce |
| Gourmet Pies | Delicate pies stuffed with either peppered mutton or macaroni cheese |
| Luxury Toastie | A decadent combo of East Neuk smoked salmon and mozzarella |
These dishes reflect The Shoap's mission to breathe new life into traditional recipes. Boyd, passionate about bringing Scottish flavors to London, shares his inspiration:
"When I moved to London I couldn't believe Scottish food wasn't readily available. Where could I get a roll and square sausage or a scotch pie or a can of Tennent's? Where was all of our incredible produce like cheese, soft fruit, seafood and beef? This is where the idea of Auld Hag was born."
Beyond the food, The Shoap has grown into what Boyd humorously calls a "community centre" for Scots in London. Whether you're dining solo or with a group, the warm atmosphere makes it easy to explore Scotland's culinary heritage.
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5. Fallow
Located in St. James's Market, Fallow combines fine dining with a commitment to sustainability. Founded by chefs Jack Croft and Will Murray, the restaurant has gained attention for its zero-waste approach and focus on local, responsibly sourced ingredients.
Fallow works closely with local farms, fishermen, and growers to ensure ethical sourcing for every dish. This approach has not only shaped its menu but also earned it a place on the shortlist for the Michelin Guide's Sustainability Award.
Critics have been impressed by Fallow's offerings. CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER describes it as "Style and substance in equal – and environmentally conscious – measure". Meanwhile, Squaremeal praises it as "generous and indulgent, relaxed and innovative, and in short, it's everything you want from eating out".
6. The Eagle Farringdon
The Eagle Farringdon, which opened its doors in January 1991, is often credited as London’s first gastropub. It changed the game for British dining by blending top-notch food with the laid-back vibe of a pub. Nestled in the heart of Farringdon, this trailblazing spot has kept its character intact while redefining what pub food can be.
With mismatched furniture and a menu written on a blackboard, The Eagle emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients. The kitchen’s focus on quality shines through in every dish.
"We weren't really pub-going people because pubs didn't seem to answer our needs. We wanted to open a place where we would like to go, and we knew there were lots of people like us who'd like to go there as well." – David Eyre
The menu takes inspiration from Mediterranean flavors while keeping British classics in the mix. One standout is the Portuguese-style steak sandwich, made with thinly sliced rump steak, served on a crusty roll, and topped with a bold mix of sautéed onions, garlic, chili, red wine, and olive oil.
Amazingly, just seven weeks after opening, The Eagle exceeded its annual financial projections. Over the past 30+ years, it has upheld its high standards under only three head chefs: David Eyre, Tom Norrington Davies, and Edward Mottershaw. This balance of consistency and creativity keeps it a standout.
Adding to its charm, the second-floor art gallery and the soft sounds of South African jazz create a welcoming atmosphere, whether you’re dining at the bar or a cozy table.
The Eagle didn’t just serve great food; it kicked off a movement that reimagined pub culture. It proved that you can enjoy restaurant-quality dishes without losing the relaxed, approachable feel of a pub.
7. The Quality Chop House
Since 1869, The Quality Chop House has combined historic charm with modern British cuisine. Located in a Grade II-listed building, the restaurant saw a major revival in 2012 under Will Lander and Daniel Morgenthau. Staying true to its roots, it even operates a butcher shop next door, emphasizing its focus on high-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients.
"Our menu is contemporary whilst honoring the site's 'meaty' past – in fact, we even opened a butcher's next door!"
The menu reflects this blend of tradition and modernity. Standout dishes include the layered, crispy confit potatoes and pork shoulder croquettes paired with leek mayonnaise, showcasing a commitment to using every part of the ingredient.
Wine lovers will find plenty to enjoy with a selection of 125 wines thoughtfully curated to complement the menu. Critics have praised the extensive variety available.
| Menu Type | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| Weekday Set Lunch (3 courses) | $36 |
| Sunday Set Lunch (3 courses) | $74 |
| Private Room Feasting Menu | $106 – $138 |
| December Festive Menu | $113 |
Rob Bramham oversees a wine program offering 15–20 wines by the glass, ensuring the perfect pairing for every meal. Additionally, Quality Wines, the restaurant's wine shop, stocks 250 more bottles for in-house enjoyment or takeaway. This program has earned high marks from Wine List Confidential, with scores of 93.7 overall and 94.5 for value.
The Quality Chop House stands out in London's dining scene for its seamless mix of heritage and contemporary flair.
8. The Ritz Restaurant
The Ritz Restaurant, a two-Michelin-star establishment as of the 2025 Guide for Great Britain & Ireland, showcases the elegance of British fine dining. With its majestic marble columns, glittering chandeliers, and expansive windows offering views of Green Park, the setting is nothing short of breathtaking.
Under the leadership of Executive Chef John Williams MBE, the menu highlights the best of British ingredients. Think organic beef from the Cornish moors, lamb from the Lake District, and lobsters sourced from South West Scotland. Drawing inspiration from Escoffier's techniques, Chef Williams reimagines classic recipes with a modern edge.
| Dining Experience | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| Three-Course Menu (≈£80) | $100 |
| Five-Course Experience (≈£165) | $206 |
| Seven-Course Experience (≈£185) | $231 |
| Sunday Lunch (3 courses, ≈£69) | $86 |
| Signature Seasonal Menu (6 courses, ≈£125) | $156 |
The restaurant's Arts de la Table approach brings drama to the dining room, with iconic dishes like:
- Beef Wellington ($170)
- Bresse Duck ($163)
- Poulet en vessie ($219)
- Crêpes Suzette ($70)
"With sparkling chandeliers, towering marble columns, and soaring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the calm oasis of Green Park, the elegant Ritz Restaurant is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the world." – The Ritz Restaurant
For those dining on Friday or Saturday evenings, live entertainment adds to the experience. A $69 surcharge applies to a la carte or Epicurean menus on these nights. The restaurant maintains a formal atmosphere, requiring gentlemen to wear a jacket and tie.
Tableside service is a standout feature, blending traditional techniques with contemporary flair to deliver perfectly executed dishes.
9. Blacklock Shoreditch
Blacklock Shoreditch brings a fresh take to the classic British chophouse. Set in a converted East End furniture factory from the 1940s and '50s, the space exudes a retro charm with its exposed brick, large windows, polished concrete floors, dark leather seating, and mid-century decor. The atmosphere perfectly complements the menu, which balances tradition with modern touches.
The restaurant serves premium grass-fed meat sourced from Phillip Warren in Cornwall, cooked over charcoal for rich, smoky flavor. Their standout "All In" option includes a generous stack of beef, pork, and lamb served on herb-seasoned, chargrilled flatbreads for $34 per person.
| Dish Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Skinny Chops (each) | $7.50 |
| The Blacklock Burger | $16 |
| Steak Sarnie | $17.50 |
| Premium Steaks | $19–$27.50 |
| Sunday Roasts | $21–$31 |
Sunday roasts are a highlight, featuring options like 55-day aged beef rump ($31), 28-day aged lamb leg ($30), and 21-day aged pork loin ($29). There's even a barbecued cauliflower chop roast ($21) for vegetarian diners.
Blacklock also offers "Butcher Price Mondays", a promotion that emphasizes value dining. To elevate the experience further, a vintage drinks trolley offers tableside cocktail service.
"Blacklock champions the chophouse and all its traditions, unpretentious and familiar and above else, open to all." – Blacklock
The Good Food Guide praises the lively atmosphere and accessible pricing, while Time Out gave it 4 out of 5 stars, saying, "Like going to your grandparents' house for dinner, only cooler."
Located at 28-30 Rivington Street, just a short walk from Old Street Station, Blacklock Shoreditch accepts walk-ins, though reservations are recommended for Sunday service. A typical dinner for two, including drinks and service, averages around $87.
10. Wiltons Restaurant
Wiltons Restaurant, located on Jermyn Street, is a cornerstone of British dining history. Dating back to 1742, this establishment carries over 280 years of heritage and has earned six royal warrants, including being named Queen Victoria's Purveyor of Oysters in 1868.
The restaurant's interior reflects a refined and timeless charm, providing the perfect backdrop for a classic fine dining experience. Since moving to its current location in 1984, Wiltons has continued to honor its rich history.
What’s on the menu?
- Fresh seafood: oysters and top-quality fish
- Seasonal game: British game meats at their peak
- Carving trolley: rotating prime cuts served tableside
- Classic recipes: traditional British dishes perfected over time
Head Chef Daniel Kent uses the finest local ingredients to create standout dishes. Highlights include the deep-fried Plaice Kiev stuffed with garlic butter, a tender Beef Fillet, deviled eggs topped with caviar, and a perfectly executed prawn cocktail.
Wiltons' legacy was solidified in 1942 when Olaf Hambro took ownership, ensuring its place in the upper echelons of British gastronomy. Today, the restaurant seamlessly combines centuries-old traditions with polished, modern service.
11. The Grill by Tom Booton
The Grill by Tom Booton blends London's rich culinary heritage with a fresh perspective on British fine dining. At just 26 years old, Booton holds the distinction of being the youngest head chef in The Dorchester's history, and the first to have his name proudly displayed above the door [75, 76].
In 2019, French designer Bruno Moinard gave the space a sleek update, incorporating elegant gold accents and caramel leather touches. The open counter design invites diners to watch Booton and his team at work [75, 76].
Signature Dishes & Pricing
| Category | Highlights | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Snacks | Killough Bay oysters with shellfish XO and lime | $5.75 each |
| Small Plates | Black pudding on toast with confit egg yolk | $20.50 |
| Large Plates | Lamb rump with sweetbreads and gooseberries | $83.00 |
| Sides | Triple-cooked chips with gravy mayonnaise | $11.50 |
| Desserts | White Snickers with salted milk ice cream | $20.50 |
Booton's philosophy of "fine dining without the fine" shines through in his imaginative menu. Highlights include mushroom parfait with Madeira jelly and cep chutney, and lamb loin paired with BBQ belly, nduja, and red pepper ketchup.
"The Grill is a space for people to come and experience the best of British food, with a fresh new take. Guests will enjoy this unique experience from the minute they walk through the door." – Mattia Marcelli, General Manager at The Grill by Tom Booton
The menu is rooted in top-quality British ingredients, showcasing Booton's playful and modern approach. One standout is the "All the chicken" dish, a full roast chicken presentation featuring BBQ-glazed wings and mini shortcrust pies.
For a sweet ending, the restaurant offers a dedicated dessert counter where diners can watch pastry chefs craft intricate creations like English strawberry trifle with custard ice cream [77, 79].
12. Apricity Restaurant
Apricity has set a new standard for eco-friendly dining in London, earning a Michelin Green Star in 2023 for its zero-waste philosophy. Led by owner and head chef Chantelle Nicholson, the restaurant reimagines fine dining with an environmentally conscious approach - without sacrificing flavor.
From the design of its dining space to the ingredients on its menu, Apricity prioritizes sustainability. Its dining room was built to generate 40% fewer emissions than traditional constructions and divert 98% of construction waste from landfills. Interior architect David Chenery incorporated circular economy principles into every aspect of the design, ensuring sustainability is embedded throughout the restaurant.
Menu Highlights & Eco-Friendly Practices
| Category | Examples | Sustainability Features |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Foskett Farm roasted carrot, Laines Farm hasselback Jerusalem artichoke | Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients |
| Proteins | Line-caught mackerel, Cheswell Grange ox tongue | Sustainably caught, regeneratively farmed |
| Desserts | Kentish rhubarb with cashew cream, Pear and ginger cake | Zero-waste preparation, full ingredient use |
| Beverages | English wines, low-waste cocktails | Local vineyards, cocktails from byproducts |
Apricity’s approach combines creative cooking with thoughtful sourcing. The kitchen transforms what might typically be discarded into standout dishes, while the bar crafts cocktails using kitchen leftovers, like an espresso martini made with caramel from spent coffee grounds.
"At Apricity, we've deliberately applied the concept of a circular economy throughout all aspects of the business, which naturally goes hand-in-hand with the more commonly used term 'sustainability'. We strongly believe that this approach has now become a necessity." - Chantelle Nicholson
The restaurant’s dedication to reducing waste is evident in other ways too. By installing water taps, they’ve eliminated over 10,000 bottles from their waste stream. Half of the menu is plant-based, while the other half features sustainably sourced proteins from British farms and waters.
The menu changes with the seasons, showcasing the best of British produce. Dishes like Cornish whiting with marrowfat peas and Sussex yuzu kosho, or braised Secretts Farm celeriac with naked oats and preserved wild garlic, highlight how sustainability can inspire culinary creativity. Every plate tells a story of thoughtful sourcing and inventive preparation.
13. Core by Clare Smyth
Core brings modern British cuisine to life in Notting Hill, London. In 2021, it made history as the first British female-led restaurant to earn three Michelin stars. This achievement builds on Chef Clare Smyth's experience at Gordon Ramsay Royal Hospital Road, where she also upheld three Michelin stars during her tenure.
The restaurant offers two tasting menus that highlight the finest British ingredients:
| Menu Type | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Menu | $235 | Signature dishes and guest favorites |
| Seasonal Menu | $273 | New culinary creations |
| Wine Pairing | $171 | Expertly chosen wine selection |
| Lunch (3 courses) | $184–$209 | À la carte options |
Core’s approach goes beyond its dishes. The restaurant is known for blending luxury with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It steers clear of the stiff formality often associated with fine dining, creating an experience that feels both refined and approachable. This balance is reflected in its impressive 4.9/5 rating from over 3,500 OpenTable diners.
Chef Clare Smyth sums up her philosophy with this statement:
"Excellence is no accident, it is achieved through years of dedication, hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, and sacrifice. I believe in doing the ordinary extraordinarily well. Ultimately, excellence is a choice, a choice to be the best you can be, and then strive again to be even better tomorrow."
The Michelin Guide praises Core for its attention to detail, noting that dishes like "Smoked Fowey mussels" and "Rhug Estate venison" are not only visually stunning but also deliver incredible flavors and textures. The restaurant's dedication to using sustainable, seasonal British ingredients earned it the #71 spot in the World's 50 Best Restaurants in 2023.
Chef Smyth describes Core’s mission as a celebration of British produce:
"Every meal at Core is a celebration of British ingredients...we seek the best seasonal produce from sustainable producers. We love sharing our discoveries with our guests, and our curiosity and passion infuse every beautifully crafted dish on our menus."
Reservations are released on a rolling 90-day schedule and tend to book up quickly. With a 93.5/100 rating from Accounting For Taste, Core has firmly established itself as one of London’s premier dining destinations. By merging traditional British flavors with modern techniques, Core continues to set a new standard for British cuisine.
Final Thoughts
London’s dining scene is a fascinating mix of history and modern creativity. British restaurants today offer a wide range of experiences, from time-honored establishments to fresh takes on traditional dishes.
This blend of old and new defines London's culinary identity. As Tatler puts it:
"From formal dining rooms with twinkling chandeliers to buzzy all-day brasseries and modern steakhouses, London is awash with restaurants dedicated to our national cuisine"
Modern British restaurants excel at combining seasonal ingredients with inventive cooking, all while staying connected to their roots. This approach influences everything from ingredient sourcing to preparation, showcasing a focus on quality and thoughtful techniques.
Take Claridge’s, for example - it’s a perfect illustration of how tradition can be reimagined. London’s reputation as a global food hub continues to rise. According to Sherpa Food Tours:
"In recent years, London has redefined what British food can be. Gone are the days when British cuisine was dismissed as bland or unimaginative. Today, the capital is buzzing with restaurants that showcase a new era of modern British food - where seasonal produce, artisanal craftsmanship, and inventive cooking techniques come together in perfect harmony"
Whether you’re drawn to grand, historic dining rooms or cutting-edge culinary creations, London offers a unique blend of history and innovation. It’s this balance that keeps food enthusiasts coming back for more.