The Best French Restaurants In London To Visit Right Now
Whether you’re a seasoned expert or completely new to the cuisine, there are loads of French restaurants in London right now, and the list keeps growing as French brasseries trend.
These are some of London’s most exciting French restaurants that’ll help you get your beef bourguignon and frog legs fix without having to jump on a plane. Think traditional flavours with modern twists, classic favourites that never get old and seasonal menus that bring the best of French food and drinks to London.
From Alain Ducasse’s famed three Michelin-star restaurant to the best apple tarte tatin in London, here is our list of restaurants that’ll transport you to France momentarily.
Patron
Patron has all the hallmarks of a proper neighbourhood bistro — the kind where regulars are greeted like old friends and tables fill quickly with people who clearly know the drill. There’s a natural rhythm to the place: a drink out front if the weather holds, dinner in the dining room, maybe something sweet at the bar after. It’s relaxed, a little fluid, and easy to settle into.
The menu sticks to French bistro classics. The duck is a constant — rich, well-executed, and one people return for — while the chocolate mousse, based on a simple family recipe, has become something of a signature in its own right. It’s generous, convivial, and worth saving space for. Patron feels rooted in its neighbourhood, but it’s the kind of place people will, and should, happily travel across London for.
Where: 26 Fortess Rd, London NW5 2HB
Website: www.patronrestaurant.com
The duck, something that many travel far and wide for, which has never not been on the menu, is the most fabulous duck I’ve ever had, second best only to the chocolate mousse
Mallory, Junior Food & Drink Editor
Chez Antoinette
Chez Antoinette takes a simple thing and does it very, very well. French bistro dining is hardly a revelation, but here it is understood that there is much more to the experience than offering up French Onion Soup and Steak Tartare and calling it a day. You walk in, and you see the split-level dining, the kitschy pink walls, the wall of mirrors, and you are at once at ease. This is authentic without feeling like a theme park version of would-be Paris. As for the food, you can certainly order your Steak Tartare to start (perhaps branch out with some Salmon mi cuit), followed by a perfectly rare bavette frites, and receive a pitch-perfect iteration served by lovely suited servers. Sometimes the simplest asks are trickiest to get right, and here classic food is served as it should be – with a hum in the air, wine that flows and waiters that want you to have a great time. All this, plus a necessary shout-out to their unexpectedly Margarita-first cocktail menu.
Where: covent garden & victoria
Website: www.chezantoinette.co.uk
French Society
Sister restaurant to Patron — French Society has everything good that Patron has, just over in West Hampstead! It is your classic neighbourhood bistro and a bit more reserved than its sister. Light billows in through the French doors onto tables full of duck, steak, beans and mousses. For anyone who lives in the area, you can be sure that this is their favourite dinner haunt.
Go for the classic French food, stay for the wine, and go again for the incredibly chic and intimate dining room… and to fulfil your chocolate mousse cravings.
Where: 77 Mill Ln, London NW6 1NB
Website: www.frenchsociety.co.uk
Bistro Sablé
Bistro Sablé has quietly turned the old Smokehouse site into a relaxed, date-night-ready French bistro, with classic cooking that’s far better than it needs to be. A deeply comforting French onion soup, a cloud-light cheese soufflé, a rich red wine-laced boeuf bourguignon and a textbook crème brûlée with that all-important caramel crack are the standouts, backed up by warm service and a room that feels instantly like a new neighbourhood favourite.
I highly recommend Bistro Sablé for a romantic, vibey date night with impeccable food – the beef bourguignon is divine.
Natasha, Digital Editor
where: 63-69 Canonbury Rd, London N1 2DG
website: www.bistrosable.co.uk
Cord
Located in a Grade II-listed building on Fleet Street, CORD is the only London restaurant operated by Le Cordon Bleu, the world-renowned culinary school founded in 1895. Acting as a bridge between the institution’s academic heritage and contemporary dining, the restaurant delivers technically precise French cooking rooted in classical method. Under Executive Chef Karl O’Dell, menus focus on refined technique, disciplined sauces and carefully sourced British and French produce, offering a rare chance to experience Le Cordon Bleu’s culinary philosophy in a formal restaurant setting.
Where: 85 Fleet St, London EC4Y 1AE
Website: www.cordrestaurant.co.uk
Pétrus
Holding one Michelin star, Pétrus delivers modern French fine dining with a strong classical foundation. Tucked away on a quiet street between Belgravia and Knightsbridge, the restaurant is known for its intimate, polished atmosphere and carefully executed tasting menus. Dishes evolve seasonally but remain grounded in traditional French technique, making Pétrus a long-standing fixture among London’s Michelin-recognised French restaurants.
Where: 1 Kinnerton St, London SW1X 8EA
Website: www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com
Le Pont de la Tour
Set at Butler’s Wharf in the shadow of Tower Bridge, Le Pont de la Tour is an established French restaurant and wine destination with a strong riverside focus. The venue combines classic French cuisine, an extensive wine programme, and multiple spaces including a bar, wine shop and private dining rooms. Its Thames-side terrace has long been one of the restaurant’s defining features, pairing traditional dishes with landmark London views.
Where: 36D Shad Thames, London SE1 2YE
Website: www.lepontdelatour.co.uk
Cafe Ciel
Café Ciel is a seasonal all-day café, brunch spot and light dining destination set in the Grand Courtyard of The OWO in Westminster. It opened in summer 2025 as a refined yet relaxed café and bar-style space. The concept focuses on seasonally inspired brunch plates, artisanal pastries, sweet treats and light plates by day, with a shift to curated cocktails, tapas-style small plates and drinks into the evening. Seasonal midday offerings include vibrant tartines and brunch favourites, while evening menus feature items such as mushroom croquettes, aubergine chips with hot honey, chanterelle mushrooms on toast and bigger plates like lemon ricotta ravioli or green risotto. Signature cocktails such as the Ciel Spritz and Ciel Paloma also form part of the drinks list.
WHERE: The OWO, 7 Horse Guards Ave, London SW1A 2EU
website: www.cafeciel.co.uk
Maset
London’s newest French restaurant on the block, Maset opened its doors this winter, offering French coastal cuisine from the Occitania region. Set on Chiltern Street, Maset feels airy and bright as soon as you walk in, with chic interiors that have a cool Mediterranean aesthetic. Start with a preserved lemon martini (it’s salty and delicious), and then explore the excellent wine menu as you order your starters and mains. The bouillabaisse croquettas (Maset’s take on the famous Marseille dish) are a fabulous way to start your meal – crunchy and flavoursome, you’ll want to order more. Whether it’s a girl dinner or a cute date night, Maset is a lovely new spot to explore.
where: 40-42 Chiltern St, London W1U 7LQ
website: www.maset.london
La Maison Ani
La Maison Ani is total elegance in the heart of Knightsbridge, offering a sharing-style menu that’s as beautifully executed as the setting itself.
The must-order dishes are: the Izu Wagyu burger – rich, indulgent, and melt-in-the-mouth perfection, and the blueberry & feta salad was also a huge hit, salty & sweet with but still super fresh with a hint of mint.
La Maison Ani is total elegance in the heart of Knightsbridge
Elle, Senior Venue Partnerships Manager
WHERE: The Carlton Tower, 1 Cadogan Pl, London SW1X 9PY
Website: www.lamaisonanilondon.com
Amelie
One of the most Instagrammable restaurants on this list is Motcomb Street‘s Amelie. While the venue looks like something out of a Pinterest board, rest assured that the food is every bit as good as you’d hope. Our Editor recommends starting with a glass of Champagne, before moving on to the salmon gravlax, and the most incredible chicken vin jaune, followed by the famous chocolate mousse.
where: Ground Floor & First Floor, Pantechnicon, 19 Motcomb St, London SW1X 8LB
website: www.amelie-restaurants.com
Alain Ducasse
For a real blow-the-budget meal, head to Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester. Ducasse is one of two chefs to have earned 21 Michelin stars throughout his career, and the powerhouse restaurant nuzzled inside the grand hotel is a three-Michelin-starred success story.
The restaurant specialises in contemporary French cuisine, boasting an impeccable tasting menu, as well as a la carte options. Ingredients are seasonal and expect every bite to be just as beautiful as it is presented on the plate in front of you. Ducasse’s culinary approach has been perfectly integrated into the menu by Executive Chef Jean-Philippe Blondet and the culinary team.
WHERE: The Dorchester, 53 Park Lane, Mayfair W1K 1QA
website: www.alainducasse-dorchester.com
Hélène Darroze at The Connaught
Three Michelin-starred restaurant, Helene Darroze at The Connaught embraces pink hues, blush shades and deep velvet seating that’ll make you want to revamp your whole living room interiors. The famed French chef has crafted each dish around seasonal produce from the farmers, makers and growers close to her heart. The chefs work closely with you, with every menu created with your personal tastes in mind.
The famed French chef has crafted each dish around seasonal produce from the farmers, makers and growers close to her heart.
WHERE: Carlos Place, Mayfair W1K 2AL
website: www.the-connaught.co.uk
Galvin La Chapelle
As the name suggests, Galvin La Chapelle is tucked inside a chapel originally built in 1890 for the parish of Bishopsgate and the Central Foundation School for Girls. Nowadays, it’s known as a renowned Michelin-star French restaurant, part of Chris and Jeff Galvin’s foodie empire.
The arched windows and high stone ceilings pair perfectly with the modern French menu, which is still steeped in traditional cooking techniques and flavours. Make sure you leave room for their apple tarte tatin and Normandy crème fraîche.
WHERE: 35 Spital Square, Spitalfields E1 6DY
website: www.galvinrestaurants.com
Henri
Located in Covent Garden, Henri is renowned chef Jackson Boxer’s interpretation of a Parisian bistro, with a touch of his British roots. Designed by Dorothée Meilichzon, the restaurant will transport you to France.
Open every day of the week, enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or even just for a drink inside or on their terrace. Boxer has recently redesigned its menu with new Parisian dishes such as carrot râpée with black olive and sesame and Chalk Stream Trout, spinach, and Café De Paris Butter.
WHERE: 14, 15 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8QH
website: www.henricoventgarden.com
Socca
If you’re looking for a taste of the French Riviera, head to Mayfair’s lovely French Riviera-inspired restaurant, Socca. Founded by Samyukta Nair and Claude Bosi, Socca is the kind of place that would work equally well for a romantic evening for two or a family outing to celebrate a special occasion. With lovely, whimsical interiors and walls decked with art from young British and European artists, the interiors are warm, inviting and cheery. Don’t forget to leave room for Claude’s signature madeleines with olive oil ice cream that makes a scrumptious dessert.
If you’re looking for a taste of the French Riviera, head to Mayfair’s lovely French Rivera-inspired restaurant, Socca.
WHERE: 41A South Audley Street London W1K 2PS
website: soccabistro.com
Pied a Terre
A Michelin-star experience with a difference. Pied a Terre, one of the oldest Michelin-starred restaurants in London, is built on its independent branding and produces gourmet French cuisine using locally sourced ingredients from small, independent suppliers. With head chef Alberto Cavaliere at the helm, you can find some of the most flexible and affordable fine-dining in London here. The menu changes regularly, but we got to see starters like watermelon ‘tuna’ crudo, Orkney scallop tartare and celeriac and salt-baked kohlrabi and main courses like Cornish turbot and Anjou pigeon, with a white chocolate crémeux or strawberry Soufflé for dessert.
WHERE: 34 Charlotte Street, Fitzrovia W1T 2NH
website: www.pied-a-terre.co.uk
Balthazar
Originally opening up shop in New York City, Balthazar London blends together classic French cuisine with a splash of American charisma. Interiors-wise, expect a mix of red leather booths, distressed-style mirrors, and martini trolleys—think French brasserie-meets-NYC bar. On the food front, the menu consists of an all-day menu of French brasseries and bistro classics and focuses on using traditional cooking methods to create authentic dishes.
Menu highlights include bistro classics from fruits de mer platters to moule marinière and steak frites.
WHERE: 4-6 Russell Street, Covent Garden WC2B 5HZ
website: www.balthazarlondon.com
Coq d’Argent
Coq d’Argent is renowned for its glorious rooftop terrace overlooking the city. Head here for an evening that’ll mentally transport you to the sunny South of France through fine food and soaring views of the capital.
WHERE: 1 Poultry, Bank EC2R 8EJ
website: www.coqdargent.co.uk
Brasserie Zédel
Inspired by the city of love, Paris, Brasserie Zédel serves up traditional French fare and encompasses the heart and soul of the famed city’s culture through its live music and cabaret. Serving an all-day menu, begin your meal with French onion soup or try your hand at frogs’ legs with confit garlic mayonnaise, before tucking into braised beef and bacon in Burgundy wine sauce with mashed potatoes. Delicious.
WHERE: 20 Sherwood Street, Soho W1F 7ED
www.brasseriezedel.com
Le Garrick
For a traditional restaurant experience head to Covent Garden’s Le Garrick. Slotted alongside exceptional service, the menu boasts beautifully thought-out regional French food. Enjoy a traditional boeuf bourguignon or the authentique cassoulet de Toulouse, a traditional dish from Toulouse made up of duck confit, pork belly and Toulouse sausage with beans.
Slotted alongside exceptional service, the menu boasts beautifully thought out regional French food.
WHERE: 10-12 Garrick Street, Covent Garden WC2E 9BH
website: www.legarrick.co.uk
Bellanger
Favourites on the menu: confit of duck à l’orange, grilled prawn and fennel salad, and pan-roasted cod a la Provençal.
Serving up everything from all-day menus inspired by relaxed southern French dining to cocktails and weekend brunches, Bellanger is your go-to spot for French-inspired flavours in the heart of Islington. The informal all-day bar and brasserie has a large terrace perfect for outdoor dining in the summer.
WHERE: 9 Islington Green, The Angel N1 2XH
website: www.bellanger.co.uk
Bistro Bleu
Neighbourhood pub meets bistro. The newly opened Bistro Bleu, perched above The Rugby Tavern, offers an authentic taste of France with a slight British accent. With chic, art-deco style interiors, the bistro is designed for lingering lunches and intimate tête-à-têtes over a menu that features simple, seasonal dishes with earthy flavours that are imbued with nostalgia. Don’t skip dessert, it’s divine.
WHERE: 19 Great James Street WC1N 3ES
website: WWW.rugbytavern.co.uk
LPM Restaurant and Bar
All about the joie de vivre. This French Riviera-inspired restaurant and bar offers an ingredient-driven approach to traditional Niçoise cuisine. Bring the Mediterranean closer to your plate with dishes like Crispy Squids with Paprika and Green Chilli, and if you’re feeling adventurous, go for the snails with garlic butter and parsley for starters. Seafood lovers will enjoy the salt-baked sea bass with artichokes and tomatoes for mains. Complete the meal with a decadent but classic crème brûlée. Don’t forget to order the guest favourite, Tomatini for a playful touch to your meal.
WHERE: 53-54 Brook’s Mews W1K 4EG
website: www.lpmrestaurants.com
Richoux
Craving an old-school Parisian dining experience? Then look no further. The decor, music and uniforms will take you there before you have even sat down. This Regent Street gem was originally founded in London as a patisserie in 1909 by two French émigrés. Today, its all-day menu specialises in executing French classics to perfection, complemented by a thorough and well-rounded wine list.
where: 14-15 Regent St, Langham Pl, W1B 2QS
website: www.richoux.co.uk
Richoux transported me straight to Paris as soon as I walked through the door.
Imogen, Graphic Designer
Whitcomb’s
“A corner of the French Mediterranean, in the heart of West End,” The Londoner’s signature restaurant, Whitcomb’s, presents a menu of classic French dishes prepared using carefully selected British produce. Dishes up for the taking include steak tartare, yellowtail carpaccio, oysters with lemon creme fraiche, white fish tortellini and marinated baby chicken covered in lemon butter. With its excellent West End location, Whitcomb also makes the perfect spot for pre-theatre dining.
With its excellent West End location, Whitcomb also makes the perfect spot for pre-theatre dining.
WHERE: 8 Leicester Square, WC2H 7DX
website: www.thelondoner.com/restaurants-bars/whitcombs
Louie
Louie takes French gastronomy to unfathomable heights with a New Orleans influence that tantalises the tastebuds. Food across the board is exceptional, and the steaks, in particular, are excellent. Decor proffers prohibition meets sophisticated lounge-style vibes, and there is a fitting toe-tapping downtown soundtrack. Imagine ‘Where the Crawdads Sing’ gentrified. The best part though? The invitation-only upstairs nightcap spot The Alligator Bar. Accessible only via a lift (activated by a staff fob, no sneaking!), this is a genuine secret London bar with open-air terrace, open-sided fire and an achingly cool (but equally relaxed) bar team. Go in for one, be prepared to stay all night.
WHERE: 13-15 West Street WC2H 9NE
website: www.louie-london.com
Maison François
With a menu that can take you from an early-morning breakfast served brasserie style (caviar and scrambled eggs, anyone?) to two or three-course pre-theatre menus and an à la carte menu that features tartare de boeuf, crab salad, Ravioles du Dauphiné, and more, there’s something for everyone here. Don’t miss oyster happy hours (six oysters and a glass of bubbles for £25) between 5 and 6 p.m., Monday through Friday downstairs at Frank’s.
WHERE: 34 Duke Street, St. James’s, SW1Y 6DF
website: www.maisonfrancois.london
Bouchon Racine
Get whisked away to the bouchons and bistros of France and dig into apéritifs and digéstifs at Bouchon Racine, a classic bistro that serves masterfully created French cuisine. Notoriously one of the best restaurants in London, this is a place to cross off your bucket list.
Get whisked away to the bouchons and bistros of France.
WHERE: 66 Cowcross Street EC1M 6BP
website: www.bouchonracine.com
