In recent years, London has redefined what British food can be. Gone are the days when British cuisine was dismissed as bland or unimaginative. Today, the capital is buzzing with restaurants that showcase a new era of modern British food—where seasonal produce, artisanal craftsmanship, and inventive cooking techniques come together in perfect harmony.
Whether it's reimagined classics or daring culinary experiments, modern British dining offers something for everyone. Below, we’ve rounded up the best modern British restaurants in London where you can experience this exciting culinary movement.
Top 14 Modern British Restaurants
1 - Lyle's
Housed in a former tea factory in Shoreditch, Lyle's offers an ever-changing menu rooted in British ingredients and seasonal simplicity. Head Chef James Lowe's dishes are elegant yet unpretentious, often showcasing single ingredients at their finest. Expect inventive takes on British classics, with dishes such as pigeon, Scottish langoustine, and house-made bread. The minimalist décor complements the food perfectly, creating a laid-back yet refined dining atmosphere.
Address: 56 Shoreditch High Street, London, E1 6JJ
2 - Rochelle Canteen
Tucked away in a converted bike shed within an old schoolyard, Rochelle Canteen offers a hidden gem dining experience. The food is refreshingly simple, featuring British ingredients like grilled mackerel or roast lamb, prepared with a light touch. The atmosphere feels intimate and informal, making it the perfect spot for a laid-back lunch or dinner with a twist of nostalgia. Rochelle’s open kitchen and no-fuss design provide a charming escape from the city bustle.
Address: 16 Playground Gardens, London, E2 7FA
3 - The Quality Chop House
Established in 1869, The Quality Chop House marries history with contemporary British dining. Known for its perfectly cooked meat dishes, this restaurant is a carnivore's dream. Their famed confit potatoes and exceptional quality chops are unmissable, and the cosy, dark wood interiors evoke the restaurant’s rich history. You’ll also find a strong focus on sustainability, with a nose-to-tail ethos underpinning the menu.
Address: 88-94 Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3EA
4 - The Shed
The Shed, found tucked away in Notting Hill, celebrates farm-to-table dining with its hyper-focus on locally sourced ingredients. The menu is refreshingly rustic yet inventive, offering dishes like mushroom marmite éclairs and lamb chips. The restaurant’s casual, barn-inspired interiors create a relaxed yet buzzy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the Gladwin family's signature 'British wild food.'
Address: 122 Palace Gardens Terrace, London, W8 4RT
5 - The Clove Club
Michelin-starred Clove Club is renowned for its innovative approach to British gastronomy. Housed in Shoreditch Town Hall, the tasting menu reflects a playful yet refined interpretation of British ingredients. From raw Orkney scallop to Scottish grouse, each dish is a celebration of local, seasonal produce. The sleek, open kitchen allows guests to witness the culinary artistry in real-time.
Address: 380 Old Street, London, EC1V 9LT
6 - Rules
As London's oldest restaurant, Rules has stood the test of time, serving classic British dishes since 1798. Known for its traditional dishes that include game, oysters, and pies, Rules retains an air of old-world grandeur with its opulent interiors. The seasonal menu includes hearty dishes like venison stew and roast pheasant, ensuring a traditional British dining experience steeped in history. Located in the stunning Covent Garden, it's the perfect place for anyone visiting London to stop by and try the best of traditional British food.
Address: 35 Maiden Lane, London, WC2E 7LB
7 - Nest
With its focus on sustainable, hyper-local produce, this wonderful London restaurant offers a dining experience that feels personal and unique. Nest is small and intimate, and serves a set menu that changes frequently, depending on what’s in season. Expect dishes like aged beef with oyster mushrooms or wild garlic and nettle soup, all served in a homely, cosy setting that feels like dining with friends.
Address: 177 Morning Lane, London, E9 6LH
8 - Bistrot Freddie
Bistrot Freddie brings a French bistro-style twist to modern British cooking, offering a relaxed yet chic dining experience. The menu is inspired by both French and British ingredients, with dishes such as Cornish monkfish and English asparagus playing a central role. The bistro-esque interiors are warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a casual yet elegant meal.
Address: 34 Duke Street, London, W1U 1AT
9 - Cafe Deco
Cafe Deco takes a playful approach to modern British food, offering a concise but inventive menu that blends traditional British fare with European influences. Dishes like pheasant schnitzel or smoked trout are simple yet expertly crafted, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The relaxed, café-style atmosphere makes it a great choice for both casual dining and special occasions.
Address: 43 Store Street, London, WC1E 7DB
10 - Sweetings Restaurant
A stalwart of British seafood, Sweetings has been serving oysters, lobster, and Dover sole since 1889. The old-school charm is part of its appeal, with wooden panelling and a lively atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. While the restaurant stays true to its roots, it also incorporates a modern twist on its dishes, making it one of the best British restaurants for seafood lovers.
Address: 39 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4N 4SF
11 - Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Located in the Mandarin Oriental, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is where history meets modern gastronomy. Inspired by historic British recipes, the menu offers dishes like 'Meat Fruit'—a medieval dish reimagined as chicken liver parfait encased in a mandarin jelly. The sleek, contemporary interiors perfectly complement the food, offering a high-end dining experience with a historical twist on classic British cuisine.
Address: 66 Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7LA
12 - Harwood Arms
London’s only Michelin-starred pub, Harwood Arms offers a sophisticated take on British pub food. With a focus on game and foraged ingredients, dishes are hearty yet refined, like venison Scotch egg or wild rabbit. The relaxed, rustic setting gives it a cosy, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for long lunches or intimate dinners.
Address: Walham Grove, London, SW6 1QP
13 - Quo Vadis
A Soho institution, Quo Vadis is known for its seasonal British menu and quirky atmosphere. Housed in a former brothel, this iconic venue serves dishes that celebrate the best of British produce, like native lobster with fennel or slow-cooked lamb. The club-like interiors and eclectic artwork add to its character, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
Address: 26-29 Dean Street, London, W1D 3LL
14 - Core by Clare Smyth
Core by Clare Smyth redefines fine dining with its emphasis on natural flavours and sustainable ingredients. The Michelin-starred restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that highlights the best of British produce, with dishes like Isle of Mull scallop and Cornish lamb. The modern, minimalist interiors create a calm, elegant backdrop to the culinary artistry on display.
Address: 92 Kensington Park Road, London, W11 2PN
London’s modern British food scene is a culinary journey that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation. Whether you’re looking for a Michelin-starred experience or a hidden gem, these restaurants represent the best of what the city has to offer. Dive in and experience the evolution of modern British cuisine.
A Great Food Tour in London
London isn’t just about Big Ben and double-deckers—it’s a city with layers of flavor waiting to be discovered. The London Food Tour from Sherpa Food Tours invites you to explore its rich culinary neighborhoods, where centuries of history blend with modern tastes. Walk the streets like a local, eat like an insider, and uncover the hidden kitchens, street stalls, and market gems that tell the real story of the city.
From flaky Cornish pasties to fiery curries born of migration, and from artisanal cheeses to surprising fusions, every stop on this tour brings London’s multicultural heart to life. Your local guide will serve up more than just food—they’ll share the traditions, influences, and evolution behind each dish. It’s a feast for both your senses and your curiosity.
Why You’ll Crave This Tour:
🥧 Authentic Tastings – No gimmicks, just real local flavor
📚 Stories in Every Step – Learn how London’s food scene was shaped
🌆 Great for Explorers – Perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike
Embark on a unique Soho food tour in London, beginning at Seven Dials. Enjoy authentic Indian food, savor fine wine and local cider, and try Michelin guide Bao buns.
4 hours
+12 dishes/drinks
Up to 12 guests
Amazing Restaurants in London
London's modern British dining scene masterfully blends tradition with innovation, offering a culinary journey that celebrates the nation's rich heritage while embracing contemporary flavors. From the nose-to-tail philosophy of St. John to the refined elegance of The River Café, the city's restaurants provide diverse experiences that cater to both classic tastes and modern palates. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring these establishments promises a delightful insight into the evolving landscape of British cuisine.
FAQs About Modern British Food in London
What defines modern British cuisine?
Modern British cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and a fusion of traditional British recipes with contemporary cooking techniques. This approach often incorporates international influences, reflecting the UK's diverse cultural landscape, while still honoring classic British flavors and dishes.
Are there affordable options for experiencing modern British food in London?
Yes, London offers a range of dining experiences that cater to various budgets. For instance, some Michelin-starred restaurants provide set menus at lunchtime for under £50, allowing diners to enjoy high-quality modern British cuisine without a hefty price tag.
Can I explore modern British cuisine through guided tours?
Absolutely. Companies like Sherpa Food Tours offer curated experiences that take you through London's culinary hotspots, including neighborhoods like Soho. These tours provide an opportunity to sample a variety of modern British dishes, learn about the city's food history, and discover hidden gems, all guided by knowledgeable locals.