If you’re heading out on a date night and you really want to impress why not try somewhere special and head to one of our top 10 most romantic dining spots in the capital, as voted for by our 2015 survey reporters…
“I don’t know how a restaurant could be more romantic!”; the survey’s No. 1 trysting spot is an unlikely “oasis” in the tourist hell that is Covent Garden; but it’s not just the “twinkly conservatory” that sets pheromones pumping – there’s a “phenomenal” wine list to back up “undoubtedly excellent” French cuisine.
A date “can’t fail”, at this “so French” and “gorgeous” farmhouse-style half-centenarian, whose “low light and dark corners” (and top al fresco tables on sunny days) have long made it a classic romantic choice; the “rustic” cooking is “good… for ’70s-style fare” and “if you parler français, service is very good”.
“Unique” and “utterly charming”, this ancient candlelit Soho townhouse remains one of London’s most prodigiously popular bolt-holes; “squashed” it may be, and the “extraordinary” wine may outshine the cuisine (“reasonably priced” as it is)… but “if you only have eyes for your date, this is the place!”
“Well hidden, but what a treasure!”; this age-old City-fringe warren – combining bistro, tavern and restaurant – wows romantics and business diners alike with its “olde-worlde” charm; the “outstanding” wine list, though, is of more note than the Gallic cuisine, which is merely “competent” nowadays.
“Steeped in classic Gallic tradition”, this “formal” Mayfair basement is “immune from trends and fashion”, and – with Michel Roux Jr often very much in evidence – “unsurpassed” for those looking for a “majestic” old-school meal; “the bill makes you cry”, though, so “book months ahead for the fantastic lunch deal”.
Bruce Poole’s “quintessential neighbourhood restaurant”, by Wandsworth Common, celebrates 10 years as the survey’s No. 1 favourite; the secret? – “sublime” and “inspired” cuisine, “brilliant” wine, “welcoming but unobtrusive” staff… and a cheeseboard “to die for”.
“Keen to impress foreign visitors” (or a date)? – head for this Mayfair chamber, where the panorama from the 28th floor includes “stunning” view over Buckingham Palace and its gardens; you need a “large wallet”, though, and the food is much less memorable than the view.
“A simply spectacular experience”; the Galvin brothers’ “superlative” venture occupies a “stunning” cathedral-like Spitalfields hall; its “superb” Gallic dishes and “smooth” service make it a splendid choice for a business or romantic occasion.
“Superb meals seem natural”, at Brett Graham’s “flawless” Notting Hill stand-out: yet again London’s No. 1 restaurant; there’s “no pomp” – staff are “so naturally courteous and efficient” – and his “inspired” cuisine is “as close to perfect as you can get”.
Ring the bell for entry to Alexis Gauthier’s “wonderfully quirky” Soho townhouse – a perfect venue “for a luxurious date”; the “dreamy” Gallic cuisine (with much emphasis on vegetables) and “impeccable” service are far from secondary attractions, however, and the “superb” wine list includes “some real curiosities”.
