Top 20 Best Romantic Restaurants in London 2026
London is one of the world’s most dynamic dining capitals, and it’s also one of the most romantic. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, marking a special occasion, or simply carving out meaningful time with someone you care about, the right restaurant can transform a night into a cherished memory.
At Balance Journal, we believe romantic dining isn’t just about candlelight and roses, it’s about atmosphere, intention and cuisine that invites you to slow down and savour the moment. From hidden neighbourhood gems to elegant fine dining rooms, here are our Top 20 Romantic Restaurants in London, each selected for ambience, culinary excellence and that ineffable sense of connection that only the best date-night restaurants deliver.
Editor’s Choice:
These are our top five Romantic Restaurants in London, hand-picked by our Balance Journal Editors.
| No. | Restaurant | Location | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
EDITOR'S PICK Clos Maggiore |
Covent Garden | Candlelit dining, proposals & anniversaries |
| 2 | Bob Bob Ricard | Soho | Champagne-fuelled date nights & indulgence |
| 3 | Hélène Darroze at The Connaught | Mayfair | Intimate luxury & refined tasting menus |
| 4 | Sketch – Lecture Room & Library | Mayfair | Unforgettable celebrations & statement dining |
| 5 | Core by Clare Smyth | Notting Hill | Elegant, special-occasion romance |
Top 10 Romantic Restaurants In London 2026
Here are our top 10 best romantic restaurants in London that have gained popularity due to their beautiful flavours, exceptional decor and atmosphere, and their highest levels of customer satisfaction.
1. Clos Maggiore — Covent Garden
Clos Maggiore is often described as London’s most romantic restaurant, and with good reason. From the moment you enter the blossom-filled conservatory with its soft fairy lights and glowing fireplace, you feel cocooned in an intimate, enchanted world. The interior elsewhere in the restaurant remains elegant and inviting, with warm tones and fine details that set the stage for an unforgettable evening.
The cuisine draws on classic French and Mediterranean influences, with beautifully balanced dishes designed to be shared and enjoyed slowly. Seasonal tasting menus highlight the best produce of the moment, and the wine list complements every course with finesse.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: For couples seeking a quintessential romantic setting, one that feels as if you’ve stepped into a storybook, Clos Maggiore remains unmatched in London.
Book your table at Clos Maggiore
2. Bob Bob Ricard Soho — Soho
Bob Bob Ricard delivers romance with a dazzling twist. With its luxurious Art Deco interiors, leather booths and iconic “Press for Champagne” buttons at every table, it’s ideal for couples who want a night with a sense of theatre and indulgence. The atmosphere is playful yet sophisticated, perfect for celebratory dinners.
The menu spans British and European classics with bold flavours and creative presentation. Signature dishes are hearty and beautifully executed, think beef Wellington or lobster mac ’n’ cheese, while the drinks list is designed to keep the conversation flowing.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: Glamour, fun and great food come together in a way that feels classic yet fresh, perfect for an unforgettable date night.
Book your table at Bob Bob Ricard
3. Daphne’s — South Kensington
Elegant, intimate and distinctly Italian, Daphne’s has been a favourite in London for decades. Designed by celebrated interior architect Martin Brudnizki, the space feels warm and inviting, with Murano glass chandeliers, lemon trees and beautifully curated details that evoke Italy’s romantic charm.
The menu honours Italian classics with refinement. Start with aubergine parmigiana or a delicate risotto, savour a bottle of vintage rosé, and linger over dessert. Service here is attentive without being intrusive.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: Daphne’s balances cosy elegance and culinary finesse, a timeless choice for couples who appreciate refined simplicity.
Book your table at Daphne’s
4. Umu — Mayfair
Tucked away just off Mount Street in Mayfair, Umu is one of London’s most quietly enchanting fine-dining experiences. Far from overt romance, its ambience is serene and intentional, dark timber interiors, soft lighting and an understated elegance that invites closeness rather than distraction. The room feels private and softened, like a sanctuary in the heart of one of the city’s busiest districts, making it ideal for an intimate evening that’s about presence and conversation as much as food.
Chef Yoshinori Ishii brings a refined, authentic expression of Kyoto-style kaiseki to London. Every dish is thoughtful, balanced and beautifully presented, honouring seasonal Japanese ingredients with a minimalist purity that feels both meditative and luxurious. Expect impeccably sourced fish, delicately prepared vegetables and courses that evolve naturally from one to the next, each bite refined without being fussy.
Why We Recommend It:
Umu excels in crafting a romantic experience that feels mindful rather than theatrical, a meal that invites you to slow down, savour the quiet moments between courses, and appreciate each carefully composed flavour. It’s perfect for couples seeking an elegant, tactile expression of Japanese haute cuisine in a soothing, intimate setting.
5. The Palomar — Soho
The Palomar brings the vibrant flavours of modern Jerusalem to London — and its energy is seductive in its own way. The open kitchen and counter seating create a communal, convivial atmosphere that’s perfect for couples who love flavour, storytelling and a sense of place.
Dishes are crafted for sharing: think kubaneh bread with tahini, sumac-marinated meats and bright mezze-style plates that encourage conversation. Drinks are thoughtful and complement the menu beautifully.
Why We Recommend It: There’s an unmistakable zest and warmth here that lifts date night into something joyful and memorable.
Book your table at The Palomar
6. Hélène Darroze at The Connaught — Mayfair
Tucked inside The Connaught Hotel, this elegant restaurant is perfect for a refined romantic dinner. The atmosphere is warm, rich fabrics, gentle lighting and polished service combine to create a quietly luxurious setting.
Chef Hélène Darroze’s tasting menus showcase British and French influences with meticulous precision. Each dish is thoughtful and layered with flavour, often with subtle nods to heritage and travel.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: When you want romance that feels elevated, polished cuisine paired with intimate ambiance, this is a top choice.
Book your visit to Hélène Darroze
7. Sketch: Lecture Room & Library — Mayfair
Sketch’s Lecture Room & Library is as much a work of art as it is a restaurant. With whimsical interiors and a chef-driven tasting menu from Pierre Gagnaire, this three-star Michelin venue is ideal for special occasions.
Expect playful, theatrical courses that surprise and delight, with inventive flavour combinations and impeccable technique throughout.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: For couples who revel in creativity and experience, this is high art — on the plate and in the room.
Book your table at Sketch
8. Ikoyi — Westminster
Ikoyi is a sensory experience — minimalist interiors set the stage for bold, West African-inspired cooking using top British produce. The tasting menu showcases rich spices and unexpected pairings, with theatrical presentations such as smoked jollof rice served tableside.
The energy here is refined yet adventurous, perfect for couples who enjoy flavour journeys.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: Its combination of innovation, intimacy and warmth makes Ikoyi a standout for date nights that are both elegant and exciting.
Book your table at Ikoyi
9. Bar Douro — Southwark
Bar Douro brings the romance of Portugal’s Douro Valley to London. With a focus on regional Portuguese dishes and outstanding wine — especially port — the restaurant feels warm and inviting, with an energetic yet intimate atmosphere.
Small plates showcase traditional ingredients with depth and finesse, from alheira croquettes to succulent lamb buns.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: The food, and the wines, are perfect for a couple’s dinner that feels both relaxed and distinctive.
Book your table at Bar Douro
10. Duck & Waffle — City of London
Perched high above the city, Duck & Waffle offers one of London’s most dramatic backdrops for a romantic dinner. The floor-to-ceiling windows bring the skyline into the dining experience, perfect for sunset dinners or starlit evenings.
The menu is playful yet refined. Signature dishes like the Duck & Waffle (crispy confit duck leg with maple mustard and a fried duck egg) balance comfort with sophistication.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: When romance means view as well as vibe, Duck & Waffle delivers in spades.
Book your table at Duck & Waffle
Top 20 Romantic Restaurants In London
At Balance Journal, we’ve curated our edit of the 20 best romantic restaurants in London for 2026, chosen for their atmosphere, thoughtful cooking and the way they make an evening feel effortlessly memorable. These are the places where conversation flows, plates are meant to be shared, and dining becomes something more considered than just a meal.
11. Trivet — Bermondsey
Trivet’s relaxed yet elegant setting makes it a refreshing choice for romantic dining that’s stylish without being stuffy. The seasonal menu brings British ingredients to life through inventive plates that reward sharing and lingering.
Dishes like pigeon with persimmon or seasonal vegetarian creations showcase pure flavours with thoughtful technique.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: Its casual-chic atmosphere is perfect for a date night that feels special without being formal.
Book your table at Trivet
12. Cornus — Belgravia
Cornus shines in understated sophistication, with a menu focused on exceptional British seafood and seasonal produce. The dining room feels calm and refined — linen-draped tables, soft light and elegant service set the tone for a quiet, luxurious evening.
Signature dishes like Devon crab with brown crab mayonnaise highlight the kitchen’s commitment to letting great ingredients speak for themselves.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: A serene, refined experience that feels like a hidden gem in the heart of London.
Book your table at Cornus
13. OMA — Borough Market
London’s first Greek Michelin-starred restaurant, OMA combines vibrant Mediterranean flavours with convivial atmosphere. The terrace overlooking Borough Market is perfect for a leisurely dinner, and the joyful energy makes every meal feel alive.
Plates like spanakopita and giouvetsi are hearty and deeply satisfying, and the Greek wine list complements every course beautifully.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: A romantic dinner here feels like a warm, Mediterranean night, lively, delicious and unforgettable.
Book your table at OMA
14. KOL — Marylebone
KOL brings modern Mexican cuisine into elegant surroundings. With a marble bar and stylish dining room, it feels both refined and lively. Seasonal local produce is paired with Mexican technique and bold flavours, making every dish memorable.
Standouts like the langoustine taco showcase seafood with vibrant, smoky notes.
Why We Recommend It: Glamorous, flavour-forward and full of character, especially for couples who love bold modern cuisine.
Book your table at KOL
15. AngloThai — Marylebone
AngloThai blends Thai heritage with British ingredients in a chic, understated dining room. Inventive dishes like Brixham crab with caviar and coconut ash cracker show the kitchen’s playful precision.
Service is warm and attentive, and the flavours feel confident yet comforting.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: A smart, stylish interpretation of Thai cuisine that surprises and delights.
Book your meal at AngloThai
16. Plates London — Hoxton
Britain’s first vegan Michelin-starred restaurant, Plates London offers a serene, high-end plant-based dining experience. The interior is earthy yet elegant, and each dish is designed with intelligence and beauty.
Standouts like maitake mushroom with black bean mole redefine expectations of vegan cuisine.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: Romantic doesn’t have to mean meat, Plates proves plant-based fine dining can be soulful, rich and deeply satisfying.
Book your table at Plates London
17. Momo — Mayfair
Momo’s North African-inspired menu lives in a softly lit, warm dining room that feels both intimate and vibrant. The atmosphere is soulful, with lanterns casting gentle light and music adding a rhythmic backdrop.
Dishes like slow-cooked lamb shank with couscous show the depth of flavours that make Moroccan cuisine so romantic.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: A timeless classic, perfect for couples who appreciate warmth, spice and hospitality.
Book your table at Momo
18. Decimo — King’s Cross
Decimo’s rooftop setting pairs modern Mexican-Spanish cuisine with views that feel like a date-night lens into London’s skyline. The décor is playful yet elegant, and the menu balances bold flavours with refined technique.
Think wood-grilled seafood and vibrant seasonal plates that beg to be shared.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It: Scenic, social and stylish — a dose of sunshine even on a cool evening.
Book your table at Decimo
19. Opium — Chinatown
Hidden behind an unassuming green door in the heart of Chinatown, Opium is one of London’s most seductive and stylish date-night restaurants. The moment you descend the stairs into its dimly lit interior, you feel transported: deep reds, lacquered woods and polished brass create a mood that’s equal parts sultry and refined. It’s the kind of space where every detail feels deliberately chosen to enhance intimacy.
Opium’s menu is inspired by modern Asian cuisine with a contemporary twist. From beautifully executed dim sum to signature sharing plates, each dish is crafted with precision and flair. The robata-grilled offerings carry a smoky complexity, while seafood and seasonal vegetables are prepared with a deft balance of bold and subtle flavours.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It:
Opium is romance with a modern edge, moody, elegant and full of personality. It’s perfect for couples who want a date night that feels both intimate and a little adventurous: culinary excellence and atmosphere in equal measure.
20. Galvin at Windows — Mayfair
Perched on the 28th floor of the Hilton Park Lane, Galvin at Windows offers one of London’s most breathtaking backdrops for a romantic night out. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic views of the capital, St. James’s Park, Buckingham Palace and the glittering West End, turning dinner into an experience as much about place as plate.
The menu is a celebration of contemporary French cuisine with an elegant British sensibility. Chef’s seasonal tasting menus balance richness with finesse, pairing impeccable ingredients with refined technique. Dishes might range from delicate seafood preparations to beautifully seared cuts of meat, each plated with artistic precision.
Why Balance Journal Recommends It:
For romance that feels elevated, literally and figuratively, Galvin at Windows is hard to beat. The combination of stunning views, quiet sophistication and impeccably crafted cuisine makes it ideal for anniversaries, proposals, or simply an unforgettable evening together.
Book your table at Galvin at Windows
Summary
From timeless classics like Clos Maggiore and Daphne’s to contemporary experiences at Ikoyi, Trivet and Plates London, London’s romantic dining scene in 2026 is vibrant, diverse and deeply sophisticated. These restaurants aren’t just places to eat, they’re destinations for slow, mindful connection, where atmosphere, exquisitely prepared cuisine and thoughtful service come together to create memorable evenings.
Whether you’re celebrating love, marking a milestone or simply seeking an enchanting night out, this list is your guide to the very best romantic restaurants London has to offer
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a restaurant romantic?
For us at Balance Journal, romance is about ambience, service, and food that encourages slow, present dining, not just candlelight but a setting where conversation flows and moments linger.
Are these restaurants good for special occasions?
Many on this list (like Clos Maggiore, Sketch and Ikoyi) are ideal for anniversaries, proposals or celebrations, blending elevated cuisine with thoughtful design.
Can I book for Valentine’s Day?
We recommend booking early, especially for high-demand spots like Bob Bob Ricard or Duck & Waffle, which often fill up weeks in advance.
Which of these are great for vegetarian diets?
Plates London, Clos Maggiore and Daphne’s all offer excellent plant-forward options alongside more traditional fare.