The swanky suburb that is Mayfair is absolutely brimming with decadent and moreish eateries, making our job a tricky one when it came to handpicking some of the best. Alas, we’ve put our taste buds to the test and listed down the following… bon appétit!
Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill
This British delight sees guests dining amongst red leather seats, marble topped bars and oysters, oysters, oysters! Oysters, as one of, if not the, aphrodisiac of the moment are rich in attendance at this marvellous eatery and sit as the main food to be enjoyed once inside. However, equally as alluring is the space itself which sits snug on Mayfair’s Swallow Street. The brimming oyster selection includes Jersey, Rockfellar, Dorset and more and other menu highlights boast seafood platters, scallop ceviche and the classic, fish and chips! Bentley’s history stretches all the way back to 1916, serving its moreish fish and chips for over 100 years which, ladies and gents, makes it a real must visit!
Great for: Classy fish and chips and, well, anything fish really! Plus the restaurant makes for a very sexy space.
Where: 11-15 Swallow Street, Mayfair, W1B 4DG
Website: www.bentleys.org
Park Chinois
Park Chinois plays homage to the opulence and decadence of 1930’s Shanghai, with exquisite regional Chinese food and exceptional live entertainment in the heart of London’s Mayfair. Thing the grandiose setting of a Gatsby party and you’re getting close! Behind the intriguing blood red doors of Park Chinois lies bold cuisine, live entertainment and the most yummy of drinks. For a Chinese with a twist that doesn’t involve your sofa and a dose of TV, it’s the oh, so decadent Park Chinois!
Great for: Chinese food, live entertainment whilst you feast and seriously snazzy interiors
Where: Park Chinois, 17 Berkeley Street, Mayfair, W1J 8EA
Nearest station: Green Park (0.2 miles)
Website: www.parkchinois.com
Theo Randall at the InterContinental
Union Jacks and red telephone boxes aside, Intercontinental London Park Lane is a total shrine for quintessential Britishness. As the former playground of Queen Elizabeth II, what with the hotel’s location being her former childhood residence, there’s a certain grandness encompassing the Mayfair staple. Inside lies Theo Randall, a restaurant tucked away from the marble floors and chandeliers of Intercontinental London Park Lane’s main drag.
The menu at Theo Randall is, at first, intimidating but this is perhaps due to roaring appetites and growling tummies as opposed to overly complex descriptions. You’ve got all you’d expect from an Italian, with the menu following an antipasti, primi and secondi pattern. The atmosphere and unpretentious Italian fare makes for a divine place and we highly recommend a visit!
Great for: Scrumptious Italian food and a relaxed atmosphere
Where: InterContinental London Park Lane, One Hamilton Place, Park Lane, W1J 7QY
Website: www.theorandall.com
Sexy Fish
Sexy is the name and sexy is most definitely the game at this Mayfair favourite. Sexy Fish opened in 2015 and sits on the south east corner of Berkeley Square and the food takes its inspiration from the seas of Asia, with a focus on Japan. The bar holds the world’s largest Japanese whisky collection at 400 bottles – which sounds like a hangover and a half – and On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights Sexy Fish offers an exclusive late night experience; serving food and drink until past 1am and allowing guests to enjoy the DJs’ tunes and the bar’s extensive drink options well into the night. Weekend plans? Sorted.
Great for: An alluring ambiance and amazing Asian food
Where: Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, W1J 6BR
Website: www.sexyfish.com
Jaks Mayfair
Jaks Mayfair is a self proclaimed ‘quirky venue’ that exists as a charming townhouse baring an eclectic style. Housed inside, you’ll find a lower ground cocktail bar, ground floor café & kitchen, first floor restaurant and bar, and second floor lounges, providing cosy and elegant spaces for all. Wander into one of the lounges and find tea and Champagne as your guide. Or, if you’re more in the mood for finer dining then fresh home cooked food inspired by the Mediterranean, European, and British cuisines will tease the tastebuds.
Where: Jaks Mayfair, South Molton Street, London, UK
Nearest station: Bond Street (0.1 miles)
Website: www.jakslondon.com
Novikov
The Mayfair favourite houses two beautiful restaurants – the Italian and Asian, as well as a stylish lounge bar. A real feature of the Asian restaurant is its open kitchen. Fronted by an impressive display of seafood and vegetables, it evokes the atmosphere of an Asian food market. What’s more, you cannot miss the indulgent cheese wheel in the Italian restaurant and the beautiful wood-fired oven. The menu offers regional Italian fare with a contemporary twist. Also, the lounge bar offers an extensive cocktail menu, live music and performances by some of the world’s top DJs.
Great for: Food options galore, world class entertainment and the cheese wheel, obvs!
Where: 50A Berkeley Street, Mayfair, W1J 8HA
Website: www.novikovrestaurant.co.uk
Mews of Mayfair
Mews of Mayfair is the adorable dining spot that in-the-know Londoners visit to while away the hours drinking wine and feeling oh, so fine! Tucked away, the Mayfair gem resides in one of London’s most historic courtyards and offers up a choice of different bars including a first-floor brasserie and a pizzeria. Bright and elegant this is the perfect setting for a light lunch or a long dinner with a menu that ranges from classic fish and chips to a large number of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. Pair your choice with our wine of the month, carefully selected by our world-class sommelier.
Great for: A secret hideaway far from the madding crowd, pizza galore and a alfresco dining
Where: 10 Lancashire Court New Bond Street W1S 1EY
Nearest station: Bond Street (0.3 miles)
Website: www.mewsofmayfair.com
Jean-Georges at The Connaught
Jean-Georges Vongerichten has Michelin stars coming out of almost every oriface – and if that isn’t a good enough reason to go then what is?! His New York restaurant simply named Jean Georges had, until recently, had three all to itself. 2017 was the year he landed at The Connaught, revamping the restaurant at the front of the hotel and joining Hélène Darroze who runs the restaurant round the back and has already ammased two stars herself. The cuisine is French Asian, with a British twist, and the fact that’s not nearly as muddled as it sounds is entirely down to Jean Georges, who is quite probably an actual wizard. The food is splendid, the menu comes together effortlessly in a creschendo of undeniable deliciousness.
Great for: A heady mix of cuisines and Michelin star dining
Where: The Connaught, Carlos Place, Mayfair, W1K 2AL
Website: www.the-connaught.co.uk
Hélène Darroze at The Connaught
Hélène Darroze is one of the world’s legendary chefs and her 2 Michelin Star restaurant at The Connaught deserves every accolade that’s been thrown its way (Darroze was named the Veuve Clicquot World’s Best Female Chef, for instance). Set in the stunning hotel alongside Jean Georges who has recently arrived at the other side of the building, the food is inspired by Darroze’s native South West France and combines the very best of the region.
Great for: Food that is tres, tres bon.
Where: Carlos Place, Mayfair, W1K 2AL
Website: www.the-connaught.co.uk
Claridge’s
Ok, so perhaps a bit of a cheat because it’s not open yet but we’re assured this restaurant is going to be wow-worthy! Claridge’s in Mayfair, the restaurant famed for its snazzy Christmas trees, has always held such a place in our hearts, as one of London’s most luxurious and renowned offerings. The restaurant, we’re assured, will follow with this suit, boasting an unblemished and exciting charm and exuding luxury.
Of the opening, Restaurateur Will Guidara says: “The history of Claridge’s and the responsibility that comes with opening a restaurant within those walls is not something we take lightly – it’s an opportunity we’re truly humbled by and we can’t wait to open our doors later this year.” The restaurant seeks to offer a warm and inviting setting without pretence that puts the most elegant and delicious cuisine onto plates. Bring on the summer!
Where: Claridge's Brook Street, Mayfair, W1K 4HR
Website: www.claridges.co.uk
Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester
Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester is the British outpost of legendary French chef Alain Ducasse’s restaurant empire, interpreting the haute cuisine that he’s renowned for with a modern take. The decor follows suit, reinterpreting the grandeur of Ducasse’s French restaurant in a distinctly British style. This is some of the best French food you will ever taste, so the restaurants three Michelin stars come as no surprise.
Also housed in the Dorchester you’ve got China Tang. Creatively showcasing the most elegant and exciting of interiors, China Tang at The Dorchester is the brainchild of Sir David Tang, the founder of China Clubs in Hong Kong, Peking and Singapore, as well as the lifestyle brand, “Shanghai Tang”. Inside you’ll discover art-deco design, triumphing the romanticism of the Thirties, alongside classic cocktails that partner perfectly with the dim sum inside. It’s a delicious experience that will have you longing for more…
The Brunei-owned Dorchester has come under fire as of late after the country imposed new laws punishing gay sex and adultery with death by stoning, making it your choice if you eat there.
Where: Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, The Dorchester, Park Lane, W1K 1QA
Website: www.alainducasse-dorchester.com
Kitty Fisher's
Set in the only last historic enclave in Mayfair, Kitty Fishers in Shepherd Market transports you back in time to the 18thcentury with its dark toned décor, walls draped with old-style battle paintings and oak-style furniture. The Kitty Fishers menu retells the story of a classic British meal with a subtle hint of the modern flare with their custom-made wood grill, all of which can be accompanied with one of their self-acclaimed Kitty Fisher cocktails.
Great for: The Bad Kitty Cocktail, you’ll get a telling off if you don’t have one
Where: 10 Shepherd Market, Mayfair, W1J 7QF
Scott's
Greeted with some fishy friends behind the bar upon entering, Scott’s reflects its true heritage by serving up some of the finest traditional fish and shellfish delicacies in London. The newly refurbished private dining area, due to be available to book from May 13th, compliments the sleek atmosphere perfectly. For those who can bare a little breeze, the terrace offers a retreat from the busy streets for you to slide an oyster or two back and enjoy the views.
Great for: Oysters, the house specialty!
Where: 20 Mount Street, London, W1K 2HE, United Kingdom
Nearest station: Bond Street (0.5 miles)
Website: www.scotts-restaurant.com
Mercante
Taking inspiration from the city streets of Rome, Venice and Napoli traditional market food, Mercante serves up exceptionally fresh, fast and seasonal dishes with Head Chef Davide D’lgnazio drawing on his own experience with some of the best Michelin-starred roman kitchens. Using the concept of ‘Per Oggi’ – ‘for today’ – the dishes reflect different regions of Italy being drawn together in one kitchen, and its atmosphere reflects just that.
Great for: Grandma’s ‘Caciucco’ Tuscan Seafood Stew
Where: Sheraton Grand London Park Lane, Piccadilly, London, United Kingdom
Nearest station: Green Park (0.4 miles)
Website: www.mercanterestaurant.com
Corrigans
Home to the acclaimed celebrity Irish chef, Richard Corrigan, and having won several awards including the Evening Standard’s London Restaurant of the Year, Corrigan’s is inspired by his own rural upbringing in the depths of the Irish countryside. The cuisine itself redefines what it means to be both British and Irish, fusing together seasonal produce with Richard’s talent.
Great for: A taste of a relatively undiscovered food. The Irish cuisine is delicious!
Where: 28 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair, W1K 7EH
Website: www.corrigansmayfair.co.uk
Nobu London Old Park Lane
Most people go crazy for bite-size dishes, which is one reason sushi become so popular. And Nobu offers the perfect selection of shareable dishes designed by Japanese celebrity chef, Nobuyuki ‘Nobu’ Matsuhisa. Nobu is renowned for the signature cuisine blending traditional Japanese dishes with Peruvian ingredients, set in the minimalistic dining room.
Great for: The celebrity chef’s signature dish, black cod with miso.
Where: Nobu London, Old Park Lane, London, United Kingdom
Nearest station: Hyde Park Corner (0.3 miles)
Website: www.noburestaurants.com
The Araki
Another unmissable sushi hideout in Mayfair is The Araki with their one set menu only, the Sushi “Omakase”. Set up by Mitsuhiro Araki who closed his three Michelin-starred restaurant in Ginza, Tokyo, to bring London the opportunity to experience world renowned ‘Edomae Sushi’ for the first time – an authentic style invented circa 200 years-ago. It is on the pricier side however it’s a true insight into the world of traditional Japanese cuisine.
Great for: The experience itself, a special occasion or both!
Where: 12 New Burlington Street, Mayfair, W1S 3BH
Website: www.the-araki.com
Le Gavroche
Known as the first UK restaurant to be awarded three Michelin stars, Le Gavroche maintains an exceptional reputation for both diners and critics. Headed by chef de cuisine Michel Roux Jr, known for his various television appearances including as an expert judge on Masterchef, Le Gavroche prides itself on creating traditional French cuisine which is paired beautifully with a select wine.
Great for: The immaculate food and wine pairing.
Where: 43 Upper Brook Street, Mayfair, W1K 7QR
Website: www.le-gavroche.co.uk
Galvin at Windows
You will no doubt recognise a familiar face from the Channel 4 show, First Dates, when you head to Galvin at Windows as Fred Sirieix is the general manager there. This modern take of Franch haute cuisine is accompanied with the impeccable views over London’s notorious Hyde Park from 28th-floors high.
Great for: The never-ending views of London’s skyline and a bit of a celeb spot!
Where: 22 Park Ln, London W1K 1BE, United Kingdom
Nearest station: Hyde Park Corner (0.3 miles)
Website: www.galvinatwindows.com
Gymkhana
Take a trip to London’s take on an Indian gymkhana club, where members of high society socialise, dine, drink and play sport – with the décor reflecting just that. At Gymkhana, they pride themselves on their boldly spiced sharing dishes and chatpatta, and rightly so, as they were awarded a Michelin-star for their Indian cuisine.
Great for: Sharing dishes galore.
Where: 42 Albemarle Street, Mayfair, W1S 4JH
Website: www.gymkhanalondon.com
Annabel’s
After more than 50 years at the heart of London’s nightlife, during which Hollywood stars and royalty alike descended under the striped canopy on Berkeley Square, Annabel’s opened the doors to its much-anticipated new home in March last year. Almost a year later, the club continues to delight members and their guests with superb service, exclusive ambience, first-class cuisine and unparalleled entertainment.
Annabel’s, reimagined in an 18th Century, Grade One listed Georgian mansion house at 46 Berkeley Square at 26,000ft, comprises considerably more space than the original Club and for the first time offers an all day and all night experience. The Club is filled with restaurants, bars, private dining rooms and a cigar salon, spread across four spacious floors. The Garden, an enchanting restaurant with a retracting glass roof, offers year-round al fresco dining.
Great for: Sheer Luxury and celeb spotting
Where: 46 Berkeley Square, London W1J 5AT, UK
Nearest station: Green Park (0.3 miles)
Website: www.annabels.co.uk
Ormer Mayfair
Shaun Rankin won a Michelin star for his restaurant Ormer in St Hellier, Jersey, so when the restaurant at Fleming’s in Mayfair came available, it was a natural move to bring the whole shebang to London, and how lucky for us that he has.
Ormer, named after the crab variety, is inspired by Jersey, where the fish is so fresh that it might as well be swimming. Mayfair seeks to recreate this and does so with style with the same combination of sustainably-sourced, locally foraged seasonal produce. With Rankin at the helm this restaurant is a joy; elegant and a showcase for the very best of Jersey.
Great for: Those who love a foraged food and the freshest of fish
Where: 7-12 Half Moon Street, Mayfair, W1J 7BH
Website: www.flemings-mayfair.co.uk
34 Mayfair
Flooded with fabulous artwork lining the walls, polished oak parquet and an open kitchen, 34 Mayfair is the adorable resto you need on your Mayfair bucket list. Head Chef Harvey Ayliffe rustles up a seasonal and contemporary menu that plays with international influences using a Argentine parrilla grill. The venue is renowned for its exquisite meat offerings, including A5 Japanese Wagyu. You’ll also find a brimming selection of seasonal game and fish, all to be washed down by some of that oh, so fine grape juice form the extensive collection.
Where: 34, Grosvenor Square, London, W1K 2HD, United Kingdom
Nearest station: Bond Street (0.5 miles)
Website: www.34-restaurant.co.uk
Gaucho Piccadilly
With cowhide fabrics at the forefront you can’t go far wrong, which is why we’re head over heels for Gaucho Piccadilly and lavish swankiness. The restaurant, famed for its steak offerings, provides delicious Argentine steaks and delicious cocktails of which words do little justice.
Great for: Steak – it really is the star of the show at this epic eatery.
Where: Gaucho Piccadilly, 25 Swallow Street, W1B 4QR
Website: www.gauchorestaurants.com
Benares
Benares most definitely hits the mark when it comes to London’s best Indian restaurants. The venue champions Michelin star Indian cuisine, mixing modernity with tradition. Interiors are sleek and sophisticated and alongside the glass-walled kitchen and chef’s table you’ll find an eclectic menu brimming with delicious food.
Great for: Exploring the menu of a stalwart Mayfair restaurant, and Indian cuisine.
Where: 12a Berkeley Square House, Mayfair, W1J 6BS
Website: www.benaresrestaurant.com
Hakkasan Mayfair
Dim sum legends Hakkasan threw the doors open to their second venue in Mayfair in 2010 and, of course, it’s been just as successful as its predecessor. Expect coveted Cantonese cuisine, including highlights of vegan or steamed dim sum platters and more. Donning a well deserved Michelin star, which was achieved just a year after opening, Hakkasan has grown in success ever since, led by talented chefs who create dishes unique to the restaurant.
Great for: Dim sum, and creative dishes such as black truffle roasted duck and fried homemade pumpkin tofu.
Where: 17 Bruton St, Mayfair, W1J 6QB
Website: www.hakkasan.com
The Square
Bare concrete walls and edgy art makes this restaurant about as ‘urban’ as The Cotswolds. But what the Michelin starred Mayfair restaurant can’t claim in East End grittiness, it makes up for in quality. The Square sees kitchen double-act Clément Leroy and Aya Tamura bring their marriage, and their culinary magic, into the kitchen for what is one of Mayfair’s more memorable meals.
With typical Gallic modesty The Square bills itself as the height of ‘epicurean excellence’ serving ‘artistic dishes with inestimable flair’ and ‘an unparalleled experience’, so you really do want to see them taken down a peg or three, but when the food arrives you realise you simply can’t find fault.
Great for: Culinary magic and memorable meals
Where: 6-10 Bruton Street, Mayfair, W1J 6PU
Website: www.squarerestaurant.com
sketch
If you haven’t heard of sketch on the restaurant grapevine then you’ve officially been living under a rock. The venue not only boasts some of the most incredible loos in London but is somewhat akin to tumbling down the rabbit hole with Lewis Carrol. Set on Conduit Street among the super strait-laced townhouses of Mayfair you are met with a feast of colour, creation, art and invention with each part of the labyrinthine venue offering new sensory overloads. Thankfully Executive Chef Pierre Gagnaire doesn’t overload the senses but instead treats and stimulates them with a truly varied and experimental menu that always delights. With two Michelin stars they must know what they’re doing.
Great for: The Michelin experience, selfie loos and incredible interiors
Where: 9 Conduit Street, Mayfair, W1S 2XG
Nearest station: Oxford Circus (0.3 miles)
Website: www.sketch.london
Wandering away from Mayfair? Why not check out some of our other favourite places to eat in…
South Kensington, Holborn, Clapham, Marylebone, Chelsea , The City and Borough
