19 Hidden Gem Restaurants in London

1. Enoteca Da Luca

Enoteca Da Luca is a wine lover’s dream come true. Cosy and inviting, it’s the place to go for immaculate pairings. Whether you’re craving an old-fashioned pizza or Spaghetti, Da Luca lets you indulge in the classics alongside good company, fine reds and great meals. The best part? It’s a hidden gem in the heart of Central London: St Pauls, Guildhall & Devonshire Square

2. Porte Noire

Porte Noire is a place where people share delicious meals and tell great stories. It’s easy to see why. From their sleek and stylish interior to their contemporary menu and Idris’ Elba’s (one of the co-founders) own champagne brand, Porte Noire is a haven for foodies, storytellers, and wine lovers alike. It’s comfortable yet classy, making it an indulgent experience for people of all taste palettes.

3. Bancone

Bancone offers some of the best pasta in town across three vibrant locations: Borough Yards, Golden Square, and Covent Garden. With its buzzy, informal vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back lunch or dinner that’s bound to impress.

The menu changes weekly, keeping things fresh and exciting, but one thing remains constant—their pasta is incredible. Each dish is made by hand daily, offering a flawless blend of simplicity and flavour. From rich kale creations to standout king prawn dishes, Bancone’s nine pasta options ensure there’s something to tempt every palate. 🍝Their cocktails are incredible too—we highly recommend trying their Negroni! 🍸

4. No. Fifty Cheyne

With rich flavours, a classy interior and locally sourced, high-quality ingredients No. Fifty Cheyne is one of London’s beloved hidden gems serving up exquisite seasonal dishes. Besides being an all-purpose restaurant for both Tinder dates and business meetings, No. Fifty Cheyne also hosts weddings and ceremonies, making it the perfect place to celebrate any special occasion.

5. The Portrait restaurant at the National Gallery

The perfect place to complete your walk around the National Portrait Gallery, Tucked away on the fourth floor you’ll find a fine dining eatery like no other. Designed by Richard Corrigan, the Portrait Restaurant serves a combination of locally sourced game and succulent shellfish while giving you incredible views of Trafalgar Square. It’s the place to go when you’re pining for a cultural experience and the best seasonal dishes in the UK.

6. Le Petite Citron

Why not escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the fine-dining charm of France? Cosy and tucked away, Le Petite Citron is a family-run bistro that transports you to the Southwest regions of France. With classic provincial cooking made from sustainably-sourced ingredients and a warm, homey atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to gather with loved ones for hearty dishes and unforgettable moments.

7. Bala Baya

If you often find yourself dreaming about the shores of the Mediterranean, then Bala Baya should be your hidden gem go-to. Specialising in serving up seductively vibrant dishes, this sun-blushed Southbank restaurant gives you the heart of the Eastern Mediterranean in Central London. Nestled under an arch in Southwark, Bala Baya offers a range of dining delights, from authentic Mediterranean food to a hospitable staff and an electrifying atmosphere.

8. Joe Allen

Open for breakfast and still open way past dinner, Joe Allen is your getaway to all-day American dining. Featuring the finest food you’d only find on the streets of New York, this tucked-away west-end-inspired restaurant has mastered the ABCs of dining: Amazing atmosphere, the best burgers and creative cocktails.

9. Dear Jackie 

If we could write a message to Soho’s restaurant scene, it would go a little something like: ‘Dear Jackie, thank you for the delicious pasta and reds. Same time next week?” This cosy little place packs a flavourful punch with its refined interior, high-quality ingredients and classical dishes. 

Deemed a love letter to Italian opulence, it’s a place that can impress anyone you dine with, be it dates, mates or a client at your next business lunch.

10. The Laundry

While a laundrette might seem like an unassuming place for a restaurant, that’s precisely part of what makes the Laundry in London a hidden gem. The other part comes from its creative, mouth-watering dishes and bustling atmosphere. Steeped in the European Bistro tradition, the Laundry is a place where you can have a fantastic meal, drink and conversation at morning, night or anytime between.

11. Humble Grape

The Humble Grape offers a menu of 15,000 different reds, whites and colours you probably didn't know wine came in. Couple their best vinos with a few nibbles and some good company, and you have a night to remember. We appreciate their reluctance to brag (hence this bar’s name), but the experience is anything but ordinary considering their menu and relaxing atmosphere. Plus, they’re a dog-friendly restaurant open to furry friends!

12. Bella Vita-Broadway Market

Bella Vita is where you go to experience old-world Italian dining. The smell of freshly baked bread, retro decor and a charming streetside patio are the first things you’ll notice. Order one of their classic dishes with a contemporary twist and you’ll be transported to the far-flung Italian countryside. Bella Vita charms even the most demanding foodies with its warm and welcoming staff and atmosphere.

13. The Blue Boar Pub

There’s nothing better than a pint to end a busy day. Offering a modern and contemporary take on the classic London Pub, The Blue Boar is famous for its international craft beers and ales. Whether you want to bring mates for a few drinks or chow down on some British grub, The Blue Boar does both exceptionally well, topping it off with a laid-back atmosphere.

14. Wiltons

Wiltons has been known for three things since it opened its doors in 1742: Game, seafood and timeless elegance. Steeped in tradition, Wiltons offers the best of the British classics alongside a classy atmosphere that could wow any dinner guest. With an extensive wine list to match, Wiltons is the ideal place for fancy date nights or company dinners.

15.  La Bodega Negra

Tucked away in the heart of Soho, La Bodega Negra is a hidden gem that is full of surprises. It is split into two venues: La Bodega Negra and Upstairs at La Bodega Negra. Known for its eclectic atmosphere and authentic Mexican cuisine perfect for sharing. Start your meal with freshly made guacamole and a selection of tacos bursting with flavour, before moving on to main courses like tender slow-cooked lamb barbacoa or sizzling grilled prawns.

Pair your food with their impressive wine list or a signature margarita cocktails for the perfect accompaniment. Don’t forget to save room for dessert—the churros with rich chocolate sauce are a must-try. La Bodega Negra is where a great meal turns into an even better night. Add live entertainment to the mix, and you’ve got a night that will have you eating, dancing, and soaking up the energy right at your table. P.S here's a fun fact, Dualipa used to work here!

16.  Wild Notting Hill

Nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, Wilde is a true hidden gem that effortlessly blends sophistication with a relaxed, neighbourhood vibe. This elegant eatery is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative menu that showcases modern European cuisine at its finest.

From beautifully plated dishes to a carefully curated wine list, Wilde offers a dining experience that feels both intimate and relaxing. Whether you’re enjoying a cosy dinner with friends or celebrating a special occasion, Wilde is the perfect escape from the bustling streets of London, promising an exceptional menu full of flavours and warm hospitality in one of the city’s most iconic areas.

Wilde’s menu is a celebration of modern European cuisine, showcasing highlights like their perfectly cooked lamb rump, creamy truffle risotto, and fresh seafood dishes. Each plate promises an incredible dining experience.

17.  Caia

Caia is a real city gem. Known for its wood-fired cooking and expertly curated wine list, this cosy yet stylish venue is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. The menu is designed for sharing, featuring dishes like grilled lamb cutlets, smoked aubergine, and their signature wood-fired flatbreads.

Beyond the incredible food, Caia’s warm ambiance, attentive service, and intimate setting make it the perfect spot for a relaxed evening or a special occasion.

Whether you're a local or visiting the area, Caia is worth the visit.Caia’s menu is a wood-fired masterpiece, featuring standout dishes like perfectly grilled lamb cutlets, smoked aubergine, and their signature flatbreads. Each dish is crafted with care, showcasing bold flavours and high-quality ingredients that elevate the dining experience.

18.  Franco’s St James

Tucked away in the heart of St. James’s, Franco’s is one of London’s best-kept secrets. This elegant yet understated all-day-dining Italian restaurant has been around for decades. Their menu has it all no matter the time of day you go - breakfast, homemade pasta, fresh seafood, or their signature tiramisu. Franco’s feels both refined and intimate with an exceptional Italian cuisine.

19.  Duck & Rice

Tucked away in the buzzing streets of Soho, Duck and Rice is a hidden gem that offers a unique fusion of traditional Chinese cuisine and classic British pub culture. With its striking copper beer tanks and cosy interiors, this one-of-a-kind dining experience. Known for its crispy duck and flavourful rice bowls, Duck and Rice delivers a menu that doesn’t disappoint. From perfectly crispy aromatic duck to mouth-watering dim sum and veggie wok-fried dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal or an evening out with friends, Duck and Rice combines comfort and sophistication, making it a must-visit spot.