Hand-crafted, luxury experiences curated by our team—speak to our concierge to learn more
30th October 2024
The end of the year is in sight, so if you haven't snapped up a private room for your annual family get-together, company party or reunion with friends, allow us to suggest some of the best in the capital.
China Tang
For the finest Cantonese delicacies, David Tang’s China Tang at The Dorchester will always be our first port of call. Located on Park Lane, you’ll find Sichuan specialities such as mapo tofu on the menu, best enjoyed in one of their three private dining rooms - Ping, Pang and Pong - which can accommodate up to 80 seated guests or 100 for a standing reception. You’ll need to book well in advance but it’s worth it: Sir David Tang’s decadent dim sum private dining rooms rank as some of the finest in the capital
German Gymnasium
Like many areas in London, Kings Cross has – in recent years – begun to make more of a name for itself thanks to fabulous new developments such as Granary Square (humming with cool places to eat, including Caravan and the Grain Store), the arrival of Central St Martins and the gorgeous Great Northern Hotel (GNH) - a boutique bolthole. It has also seen the launch of German Gymnasium - a gorgeous eating and drinking emporium by D&D London on the site of a grade 11 listed former gymnasium designed by architect Edward Gruning in 1864, which has only served to confirm that Kings Cross is now officially cool.
Situated a stone’s throw from King’s Cross station, this colossal space compromises a ground floor cafe, upstairs restaurant and bar that can accommodate over 447 customers inside alone (there’s also a large al fresco terrace for the summer months). However, the icing on top of this forest gateaux has to be the sophisticated semi-private dining space that can seat 32 guests for breakfast, lunch and dinner or 50 for a standing reception.
Gymkhana
Gymkhana was named Britain's best restaurant back in 2015 and for good reason: Gymkhana justifies the hyperbole. The main restaurant at Karam Sethi’s Marylebone venture has the look and feel of a private club with the benefit of two private dining vaults secluded on either side of the lower ground floor.
Guests are offered a range of set menus or are able to create their own bespoke menu and wine pairing.With banquette seating in each vault, Sybarites can dine in groups of up to nine or up to 14. Gymkhana is also available for exclusive hire on each level, seating 50 guests on the ground floor and 50 guests on the lower ground floor.
Theo Randall at the InterContinental
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of his eponymous restaurant at the InterContinental, a second private dining room - which connects to the existing room via a sliding door - was introduced at Theo Randall. Separately the main room can seat up to 24 people, or 55 when both rooms are connected and can accommodate up to 100 for a standing drinks reception.
In keeping with Theo’s philosophy of seasonality and flexibility, private bookings are able to enjoy a completely customised menu. Guests are encouraged to speak with Theo prior to their event so that he can create a bespoke selection of dishes suited to their preference. Head sommelier, Vittorio Gentile will then design wine and cocktails pairings to match.
Another less formal option is the high-level Kitchen Table (designed for up to eight) which looks straight into the heart of the kitchen. This new option is perfect for group bookings that still want to absorb the atmosphere of the main restaurant.
The Ivy
Over a 100 years of history have earned The Ivy its enduring reputation as one of London’s best-loved restaurants, having started life as a humble café in 1917.
A classic celebrity haunt in the heart of Theatreland, The Ivy is a great place to enjoy traditional British dishes created by executive chef Gary Lee and his tea, in glamorous surroundings: the new Martin Brudnizki-designed private room exudes style owing to its elegant stained glass windows, oak panelling, private bar and baby grand piano. (A jazz trio, string quartet or other musical entertainment can also be arranged).
La Maison Ani
Inspired by Chef Izu's love for French culture and culinary art, La Maison Ani is located in the Jumeirah Carlton Tower Hotel in Knightsbridge. Perfect for special occasions or business gatherings, their private dining room accommodates up to 14 seated guests or 30 standing, providing an intimate yet lively setting. Indulge in the aromas, flavors, and joy of French dining at its finest.
Ochre
Nestled in the heart of Trafalgar Square, Ochre at the National Gallery offers an unforgettable dining experience. Its stunning private dining room, with a majestic round table and handmade chandelier, seats up to 19 guests and overlooks Nelson’s Column and St. Martin-in-the-Fields church. Perfect for intimate gatherings, Ochre provides bespoke set menus and expertly curated wine pairings upon request.
Bellanger
Adorned with antique mirrors and sage green accents full of natural light streaming through the windows, the stunning Bellanger specialises in French cuisine. Located in the heart of Islington, Bellanger's private dining room can host up to 50 guests.
Los Mochis London City
The exclusive private dining room at Los Mochis London City is a stunning fusion of Mexican and Japanese cuisine set high above Broadgate Circle. Offering breathtaking views of London’s skyline, including St Paul’s Cathedral, this elegant space seats up to 22 guests and is perfect for intimate gatherings, corporate events, or celebrations. With bespoke set menus and a vibrant ambience, Los Mochis promises a unique dining experience in the heart of the city. The venue also offers rooftop terraces and full buy-out options for larger events.
Il Gattopardo
Get ready to host your holiday celebrations at Il Gattopardo, Mayfair’s stylish restaurant inspired by 1960s Italy. With two private dining spaces, you can choose the cosy Sofia room for up to 14 guests, which feels like a chic, intimate apartment. For larger gatherings, the stunning Terrazza can host 28 guests, complete with a private bar and a retractable roof for dining under the stars.
Bob Bob Ricard
Oozing opulence, this one-of-a-kind dining room setting has been modelled after the Royal Carriage of the Orient Express. Complete with a ‘press for Champagne’ button at every seat, your glass will never run dry, while the à la carte menu fuses British and French classics-with-a-twist.
IKOYI
A remarkable tasting experience awaits you in the private dining room at IKOYI. Possessing two Michelin stars, the culinary team are in a league of their own, offering a range of innovative dishes and flavours which reinvent the wheel of contemporary cuisine with hyper-seasonal British produce. Seating up to six, the curved booth is fitted with a sleek turntable, allowing for a share-style meal.
Lisboeta
Nuno Mendes’ Fitzrovia flagship is a celebration of Lisbon food in all its many colours and flavours. The Adega dining room is located in the basement, opposite the wine cellar. With a home-style look and feel, it can seat up to twelve, making it perfect for an intimate affair over delicious dishes.
Daphne’s
Named after theatre agent Daphne Rye who opened the restaurant in 1964, this South Kensington institution can seat a generous 40 diners. With a retractable roof to let the sun stream in during summer and a roaring fire to keep the warmth in during winter, there is a reason this is a year-round favourite for many seeking a private dining experience.
The Northall at The Corinthia
Seating up to 18, the private dining room at The Corinthia is a masterclass in understated elegance. The long table, adorned with a white tablecloth, floral arrangements and slender candlesticks is picture-perfect for a special occasion. With a menu designed by Executive Chef André Garrett, begin your celebration with a Champagne reception before being seated for a decadent meal.
The Wolseley
For an old-school dining experience, The Wolseley is known for charming groups of up to 15 with its elegant, art deco offering. Accessed via its own private staircase, overlooking the main restaurant, this room boasts the perfect balance of privacy and immersion. Inspired by the grand café traditions of Europe, the menu has been designed by chef David Stevens with bookings available from breakfast through to dinner.
MiMi Mei Fair
Enter the Peacock room through elegant timber screens, to discover hand-painted silk wallpaper, breathtaking murals and intricate furniture. Seating up to eight, you and your guests can enjoy the restaurant's decadent interiors while dining over high-end, modern Chinese fare.
The Midland Grand Dining Room
Plush velvet chairs, ornate chandeliers and high ceilings are just a few of the luxurious trappings synonymous with The Midland’s Grand Dining Room. Seating up to 14, chef Charlie Crote is in his element here, blending traditional French cuisine with a distinctively modern twist.
KOL
Inspired by the grandiose houses found in Oaxaca, KOL’s private dining room allows you to indulge in a chef’s table experience for up to 20 guests. Overlooking its own dedicated kitchen kitchen, you can glance into the inner workings of the restaurant, as its chefs celebrate the vibrancy of Mexican cooking.
Sketch
With an abundance of photographic appeal, Mayfair’s Sketch has long been visited by social media aficionadas and interior design enthusiasts alike. Its private dining room has been named after suffragist Millicent Fawcett, who spoke about women’s enfranchisement on site back in 1869. Located in the venue’s Lecture Room & Library, this dining room seats up to eight and is incredibly luxurious in both look and feel, while paying tribute to one of the UK's big feminist heroes.
Bar des Prés
Discover an exclusive experience in the private Lounge at Bar des Prés, Cyril Lignac’s elegant Franco-East Asian retreat in Mayfair. Perfect for both seated dinners (up to 34 guests) and standing cocktail gatherings (up to 50), the Lounge offers a bespoke menu of refined canapés, festive dishes, signature cocktails, and a premium French wine selection. The space exudes 1950s Parisian charm with rich colours, bold patterns, and mahogany accents, complemented by a dedicated bar and DJ setup for a chic, intimate ambience.
COYA Mayfair
This Christmas, step into the warmth of COYA London and find yourself surrounded by golden Incan-inspired decor, all dressed up with a Peruvian holiday twist. Enjoy their special festive menus, from the £75 El Almuerzo Festivo lunch to the £150 Noche de Reyes feast, plus seasonal cocktails and a fresh take on their A La Carte menu. With spaces for every occasion—from the intimate Private Dining Room to the lively Pisco Bar and Lounge—COYA brings vibrant flavours and a touch of Peruvian magic to your holiday celebrations.
The Pursuit of Pleasure, a 52-year-old blended Scotch whisky from House of Hazelwood and Hedonism Wines, would make the perfect Christmas present for a whisky devotee.
As the festive season approaches, London’s vibrant dining scene is ready to dazzle with an array of delectable offerings designed to elevate your celebrations.