London is the ultimate goldmine for traditional British cuisine. While many overseas travellers associate the UK food scene with seaside fish and chips and a classic Sunday roast, there is actually much more to this country’s culinary palette than first meets the eye.
Britain prides itself on fine cuts of 220-year-old aristo joints, homegrown produce, and exquisite sandwiches served in traditional afternoon tea. While the country won’t say no to the occasional fry-up and a scrumptious steak house, Britain’s best-kept culinary hotspots can be found right in the centre of its capital.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at four of the best-reviewed British eateries London has to offer.
Rules | Covent Garden
Welcome to the oldest restaurant in London. After opening its doors to the finest British culinary excellence in 1798, Rules remains a staple restaurant in the heart of the capital.
As a popular stop on a free walking tour of London, Rules is a picture of traditional elegance. Situated between a statue of former Prime Minister Winston Churchill and the Shakespearean character Hamlet, you’ll be greeted by a golden and ruby-red exterior and a traditional doorman waiting to usher you inside.
Once inside, take in the restaurant’s Edwardian splendour. From the stained glass skylight inspired by William Blake to the luxurious red velvet booth seating, Rules prides itself on creating an unforgettable dining experience.
On to the most important part of our Rules review. The food. As a restaurant that promises seasonal game meat all year round, Rules is the perfect place to tuck into tender venison and prime pheasant breasts. This said, don’t overlook the seafood here. With Porthilly Rock oysters and Dorset-caught crabs on the menu, you’ll quickly learn that battered cod isn’t the only seafood the British know how to perfect.
For dessert, enjoy school classics such as sticky toffee pudding and spotted dick, both traditional British desserts that remain popular centuries down the line.
Rules is a true ode to British culinary history. Serving some of the most affluent people in the country, London’s oldest restaurant is brimming with British history, from the paintings on the wall to the food on the plate.
Quality Chop House | Clerkenwell
Quality Chop House is home to another one of London’s most atmospheric dining rooms. Set across two floors, this grade II-listed building oozes traditional charm, sporting high ceilings, wood panel walls and classy candlelit tables.
Since opening in 1869, Quality Chop House has become a Clerkenwell staple for affluent locals to enjoy the best steaks, chops and game meat in the city.
Accompanied by modern alternatives such as Cornish pollock with gnocchi and crunchy lamb croquettes, there’s truly something for everyone, especially if you’re a fan of British-cooked meat.
Our advice is to sink your teeth into a juicy Berkshire chop, severed alongside Quality’s famous confit potatoes and signature wine selection.
Regency Café | Pimlico
Stepping away from the affluent eateries London has to offer and back down to earth for a quick yet authentic breakfast bite, we can’t talk about traditional English cuisine without mentioning London’s worst-kept secret, the Regency Café.
Situated in Pimlico, Regency Café prides itself on creating the best fry-up in all of London. Just a stone’s throw from Westminster, this traditional-style south-end café is known for making a strong cup of tea, the perfect hash browns and a steak-and-ale pie like no other.
Serving top-grade nostalgia, the ‘greasy spoon’ inspired design finishes off the experience as diners enjoy old-school milk bottles, football legends on the wall, checkered curtains and a traditional chalkboard menu.
Regency’s nonchalant vibe drives its success. While you might see a TikToker or two in this British culinary hotspot, there’s no denying that it serves some of the best authentic food in town.
The Goring | Westminster
Just around the corner from Regency Café, we have another contender for the best British restaurant London has to offer.
Situated inside a Luxury five-star Belgravia hotel, The Goring dining room is a sight not to be missed. Oozing with luxury, this dining experience may as well solidify you as a royal as you tuck into some of the best British ingredients just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace.
From Orkney scallops to Dorset crab to Isle of Wight tomatoes, the Goring prides itself on serving all foods sourced and prepared in Britain.
Enjoy being severed from a silver trolley as you tuck into a main course of Cornish cod with coco beans and a black forest gateau to finish.
So Much More To Discover
While we’ve mentioned our four favourite traditional British eateries, there are plenty more to discover in the heart of London.
As a hub for all things British, it’s no surprise that you’ll find the best authentic food the country has to offer right in the city. The question is, where will you make a booking?
