The best café, bars and restaurants in the capital.
If you're looking for the best restaurants in London, we're here to help. The inaugural FACT Dining Awards London have taken place. The restaurant industry gathered, the nominations were announced, and the awards were handed out. Held on 25 September 2025 at ARCADE, Battersea Power Station, the event was a sensational success.
Categories spanned everything from bakeries to bars, and seafood to steakhouses. The winners were selected based on public votes and the opinions of critics. Each category has two awards: Best and Favourite. The latter is the result of a popular vote, while the former is the critics’ choice.
Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners.
Bakery:
Best: Bunhead Bakery
Get there early. Bunhead Bakery's baked goods are so popular that they often sell out. Located in Herne Hill, the concept was created by Sara Assad Mannings. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched the bakery and drew inspiration from her Palestinian heritage, as her father lived in Gaza and the West Bank. One of the most popular items is the Baklava Bun, and other options include cardamom and pistachio flavours.
GO: Visit www.bunheadbakery.com for more information.
Favourite: Bread Ahead Bakery
Matthew Jones went from working alongside top chefs in the United Kingdom to creating his own venture. In 2013, he founded Bread Ahead. Come for the freshly prepared bread, and stay for the classes, where you can channel your inner Mary Berry and learn to bake your own. The menu includes coffee, tea, viral doughnuts (try the classic vanilla or salted honeycomb and caramel combination), and sourdough.
GO: Visit www.breadahead.com for more information.
Café:
Best: tashas
South African entrepreneur Natasha Sideris is behind the wonder that is tashas. A powerhouse in the food industry, she is the founder and CEO of Tashas Group. tashas has 22 restaurants around the world, including six in the United Arab Emirates, and one in the heart of Battersea, London. The menu showcases South African cuisine, and the food is healthy and hearty. Plus, the welcome is warm – the staff not only remembered our faces on our second visit, but also our orders. If you're wondering, they included the Aubergine Mille-Feuille and Prawn Pasta.
GO: Visit www.tashascafe.com for more information.
Favourite: KOUB
KOUB may be discreetly located near Victoria, but it has already proved popular with the Middle Eastern crowd. The café feels like a love letter to the UAE, with books about the country and by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The space boasts a brown and beige aesthetic, and there's a superb spot to work in the back. Hot and cold drinks range from Hibiscus Iced Tea to Turmeric Latte. The signature drink is the Emirati Coffee, infused with cardamom and saffron. Sweet treats range from a Basque Cheesecake to Rose and Pistachio Cake.
GO: Follow @koub.uk on Instagram for more information.
Afternoon Tea:
Best: The Dorchester
The Dorchester excels at the British tradition of afternoon tea. Located in Mayfair, London, the luxury hotel gets everything spot on. Think tiered tea stands, freshly baked cakes, and warm, fluffy scones that soak up cream and jam. Michael Kwan is behind the pastries, which include a Citrus Tart, Chocolate Mousse, and Eton Mess prepared tableside.
GO: Visit www.dorchestercollection.com for more information.
Favourite: sketch
A hopscotch by the entrance, David Shrigley drawings on the walls, and toilets that have caused a stir on social media – welcome to sketch. The European restaurant is a favourite among artists, celebrities and influencers. Served in The Gallery, the afternoon tea is a joyful affair. Sandwiches range from Coronation Chicken to Roasted Vegetable Focaccia. Cakes include an Apricot Battenberg, Peach and Lemon Tart, and Strawberry and Sesame Choux.
GO: Visit https://sketch.london for more information.
Breakfast:
Best: HIDE
If you believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, then book a table at Hide. Located on Piccadilly, London, this sophisticated spot draws inspiration from the nearby Green Park. The interiors feature a spiral staircase, oak detailing, and views of the trees from the top floor. Popular for breakfast meetings, the menu includes classics ranging from Avocado on Toast to a Full English. Give your morning an upgrade by ordering the Black Truffled Scrambled Eggs, Lobster Benedict or the Oyster and Caviar selections.
GO: Visit https://hide.co.uk for more information.
Favourite: Parker's
Parker's has made its first foray outside Dubai, UAE, with a new location at Jumeirah Lowndes. Situated in Knightsbridge, London, it is conveniently close to Harrods. The menu covers breakfast, lunch and dinner, but it's the breakfast that continues to attract both locals and international visitors. The brand has built a loyal following since its inception as a Snapchat pop-up, during which guests were invited to hunt for keys hidden across the city to gain access to the venue. Come for breakfast and stay for the viral Matilda Cake. Inspired by Roald Dahl's infamous Bruce Bogtrotter scene, the towering slice is a maximalist homage to chocolate.
GO: Visit https://byparkers.com for more information.
Bar:
Best: The Connaught Bar
The Connaught Bar is the kind of cocktail bar James Bond would visit. Located within The Connaught in Mayfair, London, it oozes class and cinematic charm. The widescreen bar at the back is brimming with drinks, but it's the Martini trolley that will leave you shaken and stirred. For those looking to go glam, rare and fine spirits are available. The list includes a Vintage Daiquiri, Vintage Negroni, and a Vintage Scotch Old Fashioned.
GO: Visit www.the-connaught.co.uk for more information.
Favourite: Lyaness
Ryan Chetiyawardana, also known as Mr Lyan, is one of the world's most awarded bartenders. Now, he can add a FACT Dining Award London to his long list of accolades. The mixologists are driven by curiosity, blending the unusual with the unexpected. Located in Sea Containers London on the South Bank, the venue boasts beautiful views across the River Thames. Drinks range from the Cosmo Salad, which is inspired by a potato salad, to Moo Reed's green, grassy punch.
GO: Visit www.seacontainerslondon.com for more information.
Caribbean:
Best: Jam Delish
Jam Delish has created a rare restaurant: a modern, vegan Caribbean concept. Located in Islington, it was founded by siblings Jordan and Chyna, who wanted to honour their grandparents. The menu is hearty and healthy, with small and large sharing plates. Small plates range from BBQ Jerk Plantain to Buttermilk Oyster Mushroom. Large plates include Curry "Goat" with rice and peas, and Oxtail Stew made with jackfruit.
GO: Visit https://jamdelish.co.uk for more information.
Favourite: Fish, Wings & Tings
Get ready for a fun time at Fish, Wings & Tings. Located in Brixton, London, it's a favourite among locals and celebrities – including Will Smith. Brian Danclair is behind this restaurant and its sister venue, Danclair's Kitchen, also located in Brixton Village. The menu is divided into small tings and big tings, and features street food favourites such as Boneless Fish Roti, Jerk Chicken, and Curried Chicken.
GO: Visit https://fishwingsandtings.co.uk for more information.
Pan African:
Best: Akara
Akara puts West African cuisine on the map. Located in Borough Yards, London, it's a sleek spot amidst the bustle of Borough Market. Sit near the open kitchen and enjoy the sights and sounds of the chefs at work. The concept pays tribute to the black-eyed bean fritter found across West Africa – and the Akara Vegetable Fritters are a must-try.
GO: Visit www.akaralondon.co.uk for more information.
Favourite: Chishuru
Adejoke Bakare is the talent behind Chishuru. What began as a pop-up in Brixton Village in 2020 opened as a permanent restaurant in Fitzrovia in 2023 — and quickly earned a MICHELIN Star. Adejoke became the first Black female chef to win a star in the UK. The menu features Akara bean fritters, Asun-pressed lamb belly, and Taliyah millet and sorghum pasta.
GO: Visit www.chishuru.com for more information.
Fusion:
Best: HUMO
Woodfire cooking may be the trend du jour, but HUMO has set London's dining scene alight. With one MICHELIN star under its belt, this small, unassuming Mayfair restaurant lives up to its name – humo means "smoke" in Spanish. Grab a table by the open kitchen and watch the chefs work their magic. The menu features micro-seasonal British produce with Japanese influences, highlighted by dishes such as 32-day-aged Cornish lamb and the intriguingly named Not Bread.
GO: Visit https://humolondon.com for more information.
Favourite: Bar des Prés
On paper, Bar des Prés by Cyril Lignac shouldn't work. The concept fuses East Asian and French cuisine. Created by Chef Cyril Lignac, the concept first launched in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris, and can now be found in Dubai and Mayfair, London. The Crunchy Crab and Avocado Galette Madras Curry is a celebration of influences. Linger on the layers of avocado atop delicate crab, and relish the acidic aftertaste. And, the Apple Tart will hit your comfort food spot.
GO: Visit www.bardespres.com for more information.
Seafood:
Best: Scott's
Scott's in Mayfair sounds like the setting for a detective film. Not only did the author and intelligence officer, Ian Fleming, feature it in his James Bond novels as the spy's favourite restaurant, but he himself used it as a location to lure German secrets during the Second World War. In 1851, the concept started as an oyster warehouse, and in 1967, it moved to its current site on Mount Street. The menu is an ode to seafood, spanning oysters, caviar, shellfish, raw lobster, and the catch of the day.
GO: Visit https://scotts-mayfair.com for more information.
Favourite: Angler
Seasonal produce is at the heart of Angler, a seafood restaurant located in Moorgate, London. Opened in 2012, it earned a MICHELIN Star and continues to impress. The minimalist decor keeps the focus on the food, as there are white tablecloths and a shiny ceiling. The dishes range from Native Lobster Rolls and Tuna Tartare to Line-Caught Sea Bass and Scottish Cod.
GO: Visit www.anglerrestaurant.com for more information.
Steakhouse:
Best: Hawksmoor
Hawksmoor boasts a charming origin story. Childhood friends Will Beckett and Huw Gott opened the first location in Spitalfields in 2006. Their mission was to serve native-breed, grass-fed beef. Quality is the cornerstone of the menu, and it can be tasted in every bite. Today, Hawksmoor has locations across London, as well as in Edinburgh, Liverpool, and Manchester.
GO: Visit https://thehawksmoor.com for more information.
Favourite: Blacklock
The humble chophouse dates back to the 1690s. It was where you could pick up your cuts of meat. Drawing inspiration from that tradition, Blacklock aims to serve the highest quality meat. Created by the Warren family, they care for the herd, which is raised sustainably and lives on Cornish grass. The menu includes Lamb Cutlets, T-bone, Sirloin, and one of the most popular Sunday roasts in London.
GO: Visit https://theblacklock.com for more information.
Greek:
Best: OMA
OMA was the first Greek restaurant in London to be awarded a MICHELIN Star. Tucked away in Borough Market, it's a gastronomic gem. The restaurant buzzes with activity, from knowledgeable chefs to groups sharing vibrant dishes. Choose from small and large plates, including Charred Lamb Belly, Oxtail Giouvetsi, and Torched Mackerel.
GO: Visit www.oma.london for more information.
Favourite: GAIA
GAIA made headlines for its price tags, but it remains a firm favourite with FACT's Editor-in-Chief, who has dined at its venues around the world. Created by Evgeny Kuzin and Chef Izu Ani, the concept is located in Mayfair, London, and also operates in Doha, Dubai, Marbella and Monte-Carlo. Named after the ancestral mother of all life in Greek mythology, the restaurant serves hits such as Baked Feta Cheese, Prawns Saganaki, Seabream Carpaccio, Tyropita and Frozen Greek Yoghurt with Loukoumades. Your wallet may feel lighter, but your stomach will feel full.
GO: Visit https://gaia-restaurants.com for more information.
Thai
Best: KILN
Be prepared for the queue outside the door. Kiln's food is worth the wait. Located in Soho, London, the menu is a celebration of Thai food. More specifically, it draws inspiration from where Thailand borders Laos, Myanmar and the Chinese province of Yunnan. Dishes include Grilled Rump Cap with Ubon Relish, Roasted Shrimp Relish with Spring Vegetables, and Tamworth Loin Chop with Galangal Relish.
GO: Visit https://kilnsoho.com for more information.
Favourite: AngloThai
As the name suggests, AngloThai blends British and Thai traditions into something entirely new. Located in Marylebone, London, the restaurant was launched by husband-and-wife team John and Desiree Chantarasak. The menu champions seasonal British produce and features dishes such as Beef Cheek Jungle Curry on Brioche and Brixham Crab with Exmoor Caviar.
GO: Visit https://anglothai.co.uk for more information.
Chinese:
Best: A.Wong
British-Chinese chef Andrew Wong is the creative force behind A. Wong. Situated in Pimlico, London, it draws inspiration from his parents' recipes and the diversity of Chinese cuisine. The menu uses both British and Chinese ingredients. Choose from buns, dumplings, and sharing plates, from Moo Shu Pancake Wraps to Peking Duck.
GO: Visit www.awong.co.uk for more information.
Favourite: MiMi Mei Fair
MiMi Mei Fair is a celebration of Chinese cuisine, with venues in London and Dubai. Located in a three-storey Georgian townhouse in Mayfair, the restaurant draws on flavours from China, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Must-eat dishes include the rich yet sweet Wagyu Black Pepper Beef Baked Puff and the Insta-worthy Peking Duck Bao dusted with charcoal and gold ash. However, if you order just one thing, make it the signature Peking Duck.
GO: Visit https://mimimeifair.com for more information.
Pan American:
Best: KOL
Marvel in the taste of Mexico at KOL. Located in Marylebone, London, it was created by Chef Santiago Lastra. Born in Mexico, he aims to create the food of his home using British ingredients. The signature dishes include Langoustine Tacos, while much of the menu changes seasonally. Come for the dishes, and stay for the drinks – at the Mezcalaeria, no less.
GO: Visit https://kolrestaurant.com for more information.
Favourite: Amazónico
Amazónico has already won a FACT Dining Award in Dubai – and now it has claimed one in London. Located in Mayfair, the jungle-themed interior offers a bold, vibrant experience. The menu blends Latin American flavours with Nikkei influences. Highlights include the Aguachile (Mexican-style stone bass ceviche with avocado cream and jalapeño) and the Monkfish with Scottish Langoustines.
GO: Visit www.amazonicorestaurant.com for more information.
Middle Eastern:
Best: Imad's Syrian Kitchen
Imad's Syrian Kitchen has an inspiring backstory. Founder Imad Alarnab fled Syria and arrived in the United Kingdom as a refugee. Despite not being able to afford food, he built a restaurant that has brought Syrian cuisine to London's food scene. Located in Kingly Court, the menu features dips, pitas, and small and large plates filled with flavour.
GO: Visit www.imadssyriankitchen.co.uk for more information.
Favourite: Berenjak
Berenjak takes its name from an unexpected place – the brightly coloured toasted rice sold at Persian funfairs. The restaurant channels Iranian culinary traditions and childhood memories. Located in Soho, the menu includes Balal (grilled corn), Jujeh Kabab Tond (spicy grilled chicken), Shirazi Salad, and Sibzamini (Persian potato patties).
GO: Visit https://berenjaklondon.com for more information.
European:
Best: The MAINE Mayfair
Dinner and a show go together like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The Maine Mayfair feels like an extension of the West End and offers a theatrical dining experience. Dig into the New England dishes, cabaret-style entertainment and scene-stealing old (and new) Hollywood glamour. In 2014, the concept first opened in Dubai, UAE, and later expanded to London. Order the Freshly Shucked Oysters, Lobster Mash and Death by Chocolate Cake.
GO: Visit https://themainemayfair.com for more information.
Favourite: Barrafina
Barrafina succeeds in its simplicity. Sharing is caring at this Spanish tapas restaurant. The concept pays tribute to the owners' Spanish roots, as they were raised in Mallorca. In 2007, the restaurant first opened on Frith Street in Soho, London. It made its mark as the first non-reservation restaurant to be awarded a MICHELIN Star. Today, it still combines a casual approach with its cracking cuisine. Don't leave without ordering the Classic Tortilla, which is created with eggs, potatoes and a whole lot of amor.
GO: Visit www.barrafina.com for more information.
French:
Best: Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester
Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester is the best of the best. Not only has the restaurant notched up three MICHELIN Stars, but it is also a FACT Dining Award London winner. The French restaurant offers a refined experience. The menu includes a Farmhouse Veal, Fillet of Cornish Turbot, Lobster Medallion, and Pigeon from Jean-Jacques Boga.
GO: Visit www.alainducasse-dorchester.com for more information.
Favourite: La Petite Maison
Consistency. That's the word that customers and critics use about La Petite Maison. The chefs create the same quality around the world, whether you're in Dubai, Mykonos or Riyadh – we know, as we have eaten at them. La Petite Maison London is located in Mayfair, and it is the epitome of laidback luxury. Make like FACT Magazine's Editor-in-Chief, and order the Warm Prawns with Olive Oil and Lemon Juice. The Côtelettes d'Agneau Vivienne, which translates to Vivienne's Lamb Chops, is named after the restaurant owner, Peter Waney's late wife, Vivienne. And, no trip is complete without drinking the signature cocktail, Tomatini.
GO: Visit https://lpmrestaurants.com for more information.
Indian:
Best: Gymkhana
If you want to give someone FOMO, then say these three words: "I'm visiting Gymkhana". In 2013, the restaurant opened in Mayfair. In 2023, it opened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and went on to win a FACT Dining Award. The concept is inspired by the colonial era's gymkhana clubs, where an elite crowd would eat, drink and play sports. The dishes are return-worthy wonders: order a biriyani, which is cooked in a pastry case, the lid was lifted and revealed a richer taste; and the Kid Goat Methi Keema, which has filled paragraphs, posts and #pictures.
GO: Visit https://gymkhanalondon.com for more information.
Favourite: Pahli Hill
Start your evening at Pahli Hill, and finish it downstairs at its basement bar, Bandra Bhai. Located in Fitzrovia, London, the restaurant serves refined Indian classics, such as Lamb Shank Nihari and Tandoori Chicken Tikka. On weekdays, it's buzzing with guests who return for the value-packed thali-inspired lunch. The bar features animal-print cushions, vintage movie posters, and even a peacock.
GO: Visit www.pahlihillbandrabhai.com for more information.
Italian:
Best: The River Cafè
The River Café is an institution – and a magnet for celebrities. Located on Thames Wharf, it offers refined Italian cuisine in a relaxed riverside setting. Dishes range from Ravioli di Ricotta di Bufala to Tagliatelle ai Funghi. Immerse yourself in the restaurant's world, and listen to Ruthie's Table 4. The podcast is hosted by the restaurant's founder, Ruth Rogers, and features guests including Elton John and Keira Knightley.
GO: Visit www.rivercafe.co.uk for more information.
Favourite: Signor Sassi
How many restaurants do you know where the order was originally written on a piece of paper, scrunched up and thrown down the stairs to the kitchen? Signor Sassi opened in 1984, and it is bursting with character, classic Italian cuisine, and celebrity guests. Hidden away in Knightsbridge, the walls are filled with pictures of famous faces. Diners have included Dustin Hoffman, Julia Roberts and Tom Cruise. The signature dishes include the Scaloppa Signor Sassi veal, and the Spaghetti Lobster is one of the most popular dishes. The restaurant can also be found around the world, from Dubai to Riyadh.
GO: Visit https://sancarlo.co.uk for more information.
Japanese:
Best: Endo at the Rotunda
Enjoy sushi in the sky at Endo at the Rotunda. The exclusive restaurant is located in the former Television Centre in White City, and with just ten seats, reservations are booked up months in advance. Start your experience with the machiai tea ceremony. Continue with the omakase experience, and put your faith in Chef Endo. The menu draws from the ever-changing, seasonal ingredients as you dine under a cloud-like installation accompanied by views of the London skyline.
GO: Visit www.endoatrotunda.com for more information.
Favourite: Zuma
The Japanese juggernaut Zuma can be found around the world. The story started in London – in 2002, Reiner Becker launched the restaurant, and the rest is culinary history. It is a FACT Dining Award winner in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The menu showcases izakaya flavours, and maki rolls, nigiri, sushi, sashimi and one of the best Black Cods we have ever tasted.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for more information.
British:
Best: Ikoyi
At the heart of Ikoyi's menu is its British micro-seasonal ingredients. These range from sustainably line-caught fish to aged native beef. Founder and Chef, Jeremy Chan, blends British flavours with West African influences. Dishes include Turbot with egusi miso to Smoked Jollof Rice. The Instagrammable Plantain, Smoked Lelp and Blackberry is easily one of London's most recognisable plates.
GO: Visit https://ikoyilondon.com for more information.
Favourite: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is the place to visit for a celebration. Located in the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, it offers an elegant dining experience and a meal to remember. British chef Heston Blumenthal works his magic in the menu, which dazzles and delights. Dishes include the Insta-friendly Meat Fruit, which appears like a mandarin on the outside but cuts open to reveal chicken liver on the inside. The Tipsy Cake with pineapple is also a firm favourite.
GO: Visit www.dinnerbyheston.co.uk for more information.
Newcomer:
Best: Singburi
When a restaurant is booked up months in advance, you'll be forgiven for experiencing FOMO. Singburi opened in Shoreditch earlier this year and takes its name and influences from Sing Buri province in Thailand. The original restaurant opened in Leytonstone in 1999 and created a firm following. The new venue boasts an industrial look, featuring grey walls, exposed piping and counter seating so you can watch the chefs at work. The FACT team secured a spot and can confirm: it is worth the wait. Not only does it now serve alcohol, but fantastic Thai dishes, including Aubergine Pad Phet, Monkfish Cheeks Green Curry, and Wild Ginger Chicken Thigh.
GO: Follow @singburi_e1 on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: La Môme London
Why go out to the West End for dinner and a show, when you could go out to Belgravia for dinner that is a show? In 2025, La Môme London opened at The Berkeley, and it has wowed with its theatrical dining experience. The walls are lined with arty 1960s photos from the South of France, and a pretty terrace is optimistically ready for hypothetical sunny days. The Truffle Arancini and Tuna Tartare are superb starters, and the Nut-Crusted Rack of Lamb main is an exceptional dish.
GO: Visit www.lamomelondon.com for more information.
Restaurant of the Year 2025:
Ikoyi
Ikoyi is an innovative concept. Chefs Jeremy Chan and Ire Hassan-Odukale bring their shared passion for spices, British produce and global flavours to create a dining experience that draws inspiration from sub-Saharan West African flavours and spice-based cuisine. Ikoyi's signature dish, the smoked jollof rice, is a flavour bomb that explodes with innovation. Warning: there is a long reservation list, but you can thank us later.
GO: Visit https://ikoyilondon.com for more information.
