The Best Trendy Restaurants in London for Birthdays

Written by
Armin Tanović
August 26, 2024

0

min read

When it's time to blow out those candles and make some unforgettable memories, we can’t blame you for wanting the perfect spot to celebrate your birthday in style. Luckily for you, London's full of trendy—and totally instagrammable—restaurants for you to check out.

We've rounded up the 15 absolute best places to throw your birthday bash in the city—all of which are available on Ambl for last-minute reservations. Landing a last-minute booking at London’s best restaurants for your birthday dinner just got a whole lot easier.

💡 Ready to make last-minute bookings across restaurants, bars, and pubs in London? Download Ambl and make your first booking today.

1. Aqua Shard

££££
Modern European
⭐️
4.2/5

If you want an amazing view for your London birthday, then there’s no place better than the Aqua Shard. This relaxed, yet classy establishment is the perfect vibe for celebrations with their contemporary British food and hand-crafted cocktails. Plus, it’s on the highest building in London!

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthday:

Aqua Shard is perfect for birthdays because it gives you amazing views of London’s skyline on your big day.

“I had an amazing time celebrating my partner’s birthday and our anniversary! Doing the Peter Pan afternoon tea, the food was amazing!”

2. Caia

££
Mediterranean
⭐️
4.6/5

Caia is the place to go when you want to enjoy small plates, fine wines, and the best selection of vintage music London has to offer. With its semi-private wine cellar for groups of eight people, it's a place where both foodies and music lovers can celebrate in style.

⭐ “We had an incredible dining experience and quirky cocktails! Make sure you sit by the counter to see the chefs do their thing while getting first-hand explanations of all the delicious dishes.”

3. OXO Tower

£££
British, Brasserie
⭐️
4.4/5

Besides making its mouthwatering meals from locally sourced ingredients, the OXO is famous for giving its guests a good time. It offers live music, a view of St. Paul’s and Thames, and enough space for celebrations big and small. As for the delicious menu, it focuses on classic dishes from all around the world.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

The OXO is perfect for birthdays because it offers everything a fun celebration needs, such as live entertainment, a good view, and amazing food.

4. Manzi’s

££
British
⭐️
4.3/5

Manzi is your Instagrammable birthday restaurant go-to. Here, you can indulge in flamboyant seafood dishes such as lobster linguine, roast salmon, and grilled king prawns. Their chic interior is just as glamorous. Set across two floors, it features playful decor with a large bar and lounge area.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:
"We booked this place for birthday dinner, and the whole experience was nothing short of amazing. The ambience is classy and very pleasing to the eyes. The food was just as delicious and enjoyable.”

5. The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan

£££
Contemporary British
⭐️
4.3/5

Celebrate your birthday at the National Portrait Gallery, and come by the Portrait Restaurant for a fab birthday dinner. This classy, birthday go-to specialises in serving up contemporary spins on British classics—especially seafood classics. Plus, it has amazing views of Trafalgar Square.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

The Portrait is perfect for birthdays because it is located right inside the National Portrait Gallery, making it a delicious stop on your birthday celebration activity list.

“I had an amazing dinner here while out with a friend. The Service at The Portrait Restaurant was just perfect, and we had the wine paired with our food that made the dinner even more special.”

6. Hutong

££££
Restaurant, Bar
⭐️
4.2

Step into the Shard and experience the flavours of Northern China for your birthday. The Hutong takes you on a culinary journey with some of the best Asian meals and hand-crafted cocktails right from the heart of London. Besides dishes from expert cooks, this fine-dining eatery is famous for its Instagrammable interior, making you feel like you’ve journeyed across the globe for your big day.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Hutong’s unique vibe and interior make it amazing for unforgettable, instagrammable birthday celebrations.

“We enjoyed a lovely meal with my family. The views over London were spectacular, as was the food. Our server was attentive and knowledgeable, making recommendations for us for what to order. We left feeling extremely satisfied”

7. The Wolseley City

££
Brasserie
⭐️
4.3/5

With its airy space, vaulted ceilings, and intricate ironwork, The Wolseley City restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate any occasion—especially birthdays. This fine-dining restaurant takes its menu inspiration from meals all over Europe. From fish pies to burgers and onion soups, it’s a place where you can always try something new and expand your horizons.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

The Wolseley City is perfect for birthdays because of its private dining options accommodating up to 24 guests.

“This was a beautiful restaurant! The service was spectacular and the food was really good with a great variety of dishes. The space is also perfectly designed with a decadent feel of the 1920s.”

8. Dear Jackie

£££
European, Italian
⭐️
4.5

If you want your birthday with delicious Italian dishes and opulent nighttime dining, then Dear Jackie is right up your alley. This cosy and discreet eatery reimagines classic Italian dishes with a modern flair you’ve scarcely experienced before. Besides mouth-watering pasta and exquisite wines, Dear Jackie is a restaurant that teems with a vibrant sophistication. 

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Dear Jackie has an intimate atmosphere that makes it perfect for bringing together your closest circle of friends and family to celebrate your big day. 

9. Flute

£££
Australian/European
⭐️
4.3/5

The flute is your go-to place for celebrating your birthday in style. Nestled on the seventh floor of the famous Broadwick Soho, it serves up some of the best gourmet meals in London. Next to amazing dishes, you can also sit out on its outdoor terrace and soak up fantastic views of the London skyline.  

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Flute has both an indoor bar and an outdoor terrace with amazing views of Soho. This makes it a perfect place to celebrate your birthday while enjoying a breathtaking view.

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11. Bob Bob Ricard Soho

££££
European, French
⭐️
4.5/5

Amazing champagne, a lively atmosphere, and a delicious menu of both British and French cuisine. What could be better for the big day? Every table in the Bob Bob Riccard restaurant comes with a “press for the champagne button” to keep the drinks flowing and the good times going. Besides being your go-to for all things champagne, you’ll love their modern takes on classic dishes like Chicken Kyiv and Beef Wellington.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Bob Bob Riccard has an extensive selection of wines and champagnes, so it’s the best place for your friends and families to make toasts on your big day.

12. Casa do Frango

££
Mediterranean, Portuguese
⭐️
4.6/5

Ready to celebrate in style with vibrant dishes, chill vibes, and refreshing cocktails to match? Head over to the Casa do Frango for your big day. They have plenty of small plates, drinks, and main courses for every taste pallet. Inspired by the culinary acne of Portugal, you can't go wrong with dishes like Piri Piri Garlic Prawns or Charred Cauliflower.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Casa do Frango is perfect for birthdays because of its relaxed vibe and unique menu options.

“Casa do Franco offers a delightful dining experience with its delicious, juicy, and flavorful dishes. The chicken is exceptionally well-prepared, boasting a perfect blend of spices that enhances its natural taste. The cauliflower is a surprising star, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour, making it a standout vegetarian option.”

13. ALFI Bar & Italian Restaurant

££
European, Italian
⭐️
4.6/5

What could be better than being transported to Italy for your big day? Alfi is a joyous Mediterranean culinary journey with biodynamic wines, cocktails, and vibrant grill dishes. Nestled in the canopy of Spitalfields, Alfi features a cosy and classic decor making it perfect for small circles and private, Italian dining.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Alfi serves mouth-watering Italian classics and has a beautiful terrace overlooking the markets, making it perfect for birthdays.

“This is such a great addition to Spitalfields! We loved the food, natural wines, friendly service and atmosphere. We had their delicious pizza and prawns!”

14. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

££££
British, Michelin Star
⭐️
4.5/5

With two Michelin stars, a classy atmosphere, and world-class service, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is the place to make all your birthday dinner wishes come true. Their mouthwatering menu features dishes like Chicken Liver Parfait & Grilled Bread, Hay Smoked Salmon, and Powdered Duck Breast. Blumenthal’s interior features floor-to-glass walls and uninterrupted views of Hyde Park. 

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal has private dining options and a chef’s table, making it the perfect place for a private party.

15. Cigalon

£££
European, French
⭐️
4.5/5

Cigalon is a contemporary French restaurant perfect for those classy birthday dinners with your friends and family. Originally an auction house, the interior boasts a double-height and ceiling glassed main dining room. Those with smaller, closer circles can also opt for their private dining room, which can seat up to 8 guests. The food? It’s just as amazing with dishes like Baked Aubergine and Grilled Pork Loin.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

The Cigalon is your go-to birthday dinner place for French-style cuisine.

“I can't find the best adjectives to say how wonderful this place is. The food is delicious and I can't forget to mention the service team in perfect harmony with the super refined atmosphere”
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17. Umu

££££
Asian, Japanese/Sushi
⭐️
4.2/5

Perched high above Regent Street, Aqua Nueva provides breathtaking views that stretch over the London skyline. This is more than just a restaurant–it's an elevated dining experience that takes your special day to new heights. Expect a menu full of top notch dishes, including sumptuous small plates expertly designed for sharing. As birthday restaurants go, Aqua Nueva is pretty near perfect.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Umu is the best restaurant option when you’re craving authentic Japanese sushi for your big day.

“Our dinner at the restaurant was amazing! We opted for the set menu and had champagne paired with it. The food was delicious and beautifully presented, with a great variety of flavours and textures.

18. Club Gascon

£££
European, French
⭐️
4.5/5

Gascon is a Michelin-star restaurant featuring a seasonal menu led by award-winning chef Pascal Aussignac. Inspired by the cuisine of Southwest France, Gascon showcases traditional flavours in new and exciting styles. The decor? Classy and sophisticated, making it a great place for a relaxing birthday dinner.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Gascon is perfect for birthdays because of its outstanding decor, high-quality dishes, and Michelin-star status.

“Club Gascon is the perfect mix of chic, modern, and fun! It delivers a Michelin-starred experience that goes above and beyond. The food is amazing, with top-notch ingredients, perfect flavours, and flawless technique, all showcasing chef Pascal Aussignac's unique flair.”

19. Louie

££££
European, French/Seafood
⭐️
4.3/5

Located in a historic 19th-century townhouse, Louie boasts a unique vibe you just can’t get anywhere else in London. Besides mouthwatering meals inspired by the New Orleans culinary scene, you can also enjoy live music, their outdoor terrace, and their special Alligator bar. Spread out across four floors, there’s plenty of space for anyone looking to have a good time.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Louie regularly hosts live entertainment, making it a fun venue to celebrate your birthday in.

20. Arros QD

£££
European, Spanish/Tapas
⭐️
4.4/5

Arros QD is led by an expert team of chefs specialising in serving some of the best wood-fired paellas in the UK. Arro’s interior is just as majestic as its food. It features a six-foot wood-fire stove, theatrical seating, and a private dining area for private gatherings designed by famous Spanish designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán.

🎂 Why it's perfect for birthdays:

Arros QD is the perfect place for birthdays because of its private dining area and award-winning paella.

“They have great food, class ambience and good service too. We tried a bunch of foods from the fire as well as a couple of paellas - all hit the spot.”

Trendy restaurants in London for birthdays FAQs

How to book a restaurant for a birthday in London?

To book a restaurant for a birthday meal in London, just download the Ambl app, click on your preferred restaurant or discover something new, and make a reservation in a few taps. Easy peasy.

Can you bring your own cake to a restaurant?

Most restaurants are happy to accommodate birthday cakes, but it's always best to check with them beforehand.

Do restaurants charge extra for birthday celebrations?

While some restaurants may offer special packages for birthdays that include extras, most do not charge extra for regular celebrations.