Let’s be honest, we’re absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to romantic restaurants in London. These options are definitely meant for a special occasion, whether it’s a birthday or anniversary, there’s always an excuse to get dressed up and treat yourselves to a fancy meal. So, grab your partner or even your best pals, and get ready for a treat!
Bob Bob Ricard
This place oozes opulence, decadence, glamour, and I just love it for a boujee night out. The decor of the Mayfair branch takes inspiration from the Orient Express, whilst the City branch channels modern-day super yachts. Oh, she fancy huh? The menu is a blend of classic British and French fusion, with the must-try dishes being the truffle and potato vareniki (dumplings), and the beef wellington was the star of the show. And who can forget the ‘Press for Champagne’ button?! Yup, simply press the button at the table and the staff will bring you the champagne menu or top you up if you have a bottle already.
Sexy Fish
This place is a straight-up vibe! I visited for a friend’s birthday treat, and the only table seating we managed to find was for 9:30pm… which to me is insanely late (did I have pre-dinner dinner – yes) but actually, a perfect excuse to go for plenty of pre-dinner cocktails. By the time we arrived, the place was buzzing. There was a live saxophone player and band which just enhanced the whole atmosphere. The decor is lush and the food matches the ambience! The croquettes, tuna tataki, and kimchi fried rice were really delicious! I would love to come back and try one of the extravagant sushi/sashimi platters!
Coya
This vibrant Peruvian restaurant is sure to impress. I visited the City branch and fell in love with the decor. Its eclectic taste celebrates the Latin flair, producing delicious fusion food injected with experimental combinations of Japanese, Chinese and Spanish influences. Make sure to try one of the drinks from the Pisco bar, with a range of unique cocktails. I tried the Serendipitat “Fortunate discovery” which is infused with palo santo smoke, and WOW. I haven’t stopped thinking about it one year on. Make sure to try their ceviche and tiraditos, with the highlight dish for me being the Corvina a la Trufa.
Hakkasan
You may have already heard of this iconic Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant., and in my opinion, the food lives up to the hype. It’s definitely a special occasion restaurant, as prices here are going to cost you much more than an average dinner out. However, it’s not style over substance! I visited the Hanway Place branch, which is dimly lit (perhaps too dim), for a sultry ambience and vibey music fills the room. The dim sum selection is impressive, we had both the Classic Steamed and Supreme selections and both were fantastic. I also recommend the sesame prawn toast, golden fried soft-shell crab and tofu aubergine clay pot. I would love to go back and try the black truffle roasted duck!
Looking for affordable date night options? Read my blog post here.
Brigadiers
This upscale Indian restaurant offers a range of flavours focusing on barbeque, tandoor and charcoal grill. The restaurant decor feels very opulent, yet it boasts a relaxed and playfully social setting. They play sports games in selected rooms, there’s a pool table and you can ask them for a deck of cards if you fancy a little fun at the table. Try the achari chicken skins, the BBQ butter masala wings, the beef shin and bonemarrow biryani, and of course, you have to try the grilled meat. Their bar serves up a range of beer, whiskey and cocktails, plus the food is wonderfully indulgent. Overall, a fantastic atmosphere paired with delicious food! What more could you ask for?
Ave Mario
The Big Mamma Group have an incredible range of restaurants to choose from across London that each have their own unique flair. For our date night, we chose Ave Mario as we just couldn’t resist the funky, eclectic decor! With neon lights and plus red velvet seating, it feels like such a treat! The food is unpretentious, just great Italian food. Their menu slightly alters monthly, but you have to go for the signature mafaldine al tartufo – the truffle pasta, and of course, their epic desserts! An extra bonus – they allow dogs to dine indoors! Winner winner!
The Ivy Asia
I’m a sucker for a boujee sushi fusion menu, as you can tell from this list. The Ivy Asia is such a fab option when you’re looking for great food, banging music (on weekends), and a fabulous photo op. You have a front row view of St. Paul’s cathedral yet the interior transports you through to what feels like a picturesque Japanese-garden, buzzing with life. The raw options are a must, with the beef tataki and yellowtail sashimi shining through. The small plates are much better than the large plates, so order a bunch and get sharing!
I wanted to make sure I shared a selection of varied cuisines, as well as setting. I will only share restaurants I think are worth visiting, as there is nothing more disappointing than splashing the cash, just to be let down by the food or service! Let me know if you’ve visited any of these places! Or where else I need to try for my next date night!
