Romantic Restaurants To Dine In Come Valentines Day
By
Lucy Cocoran
and
Rithika Raghu
on
7th February 2025
The lights are low and candlelight is flickering, wine has been poured and the stage is set for an unforgettable evening.
Come February 14, it will be a full house in restaurants across London, meaning that organising your booking ahead of time is paramount. No matter the cuisine or location, there is no shortage of esteemed establishments ready to host you and your loved one.
Prepare to sip and savour a delicious meal while soaking in one another’s company. Below, The Sybarite’s curation of London’s most romantic restaurants to celebrate this Valentine’s Day.
Louie, Covent Garden
Parisian charm overflows at Louie, an elegant and ambient three-storey venue offering the best of French gastronomy with a New Orleans twist. Having cemented itself as a must-dine destination in London’s West End, a seafood-heavy menu boasts the very best of the freshly-caught world, including unbelievably fresh king scallops and succulent lobster rolls. With live jazz music and lush foliage, the aesthetics make for a memorable setting to bask in the glory of a truly unique dining experience.
Landing itself on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2023, it’s safe to say BRAT has made a big splash in the London food scene. Taking its name from the old English word for turbot, this dish is an absolute must-try, offering flaky, buttery fish you’ll be thinking about long afterward. The Michelin-starred restaurant is the perfect addition to edgy Shoreditch with a sultry ambience which is designed for a date night.
When The Beckhams, Kate Moss, Kirsten Dunst and Dua Lipa can call themselves happy guests, you know you're in good company. Each dined at Chiltern Firehouse, speaking to the league of clientele the outpost attracts. The institution, which opened in 2014, has since become synonymous with the rich, famous and beautiful. The menu is a mixed bag, offering everything from grilled meats and oven fired pizzas to seared halibut and lobster linguine — in short, you won’t be left wanting. Address: 1 Chiltern St, London W1U 7PA
Located in the heart of prestigious Mayfair, The Colony Grill can be found within the iconic Beaumont Hotel. Calling on produce from small-scale farmers who have been personally sourced by chef Ben Boeynaems, the restaurant has become well-known for its old-world American fare. Putting a unique spin on cult classics, notable dishes include the mouthwatering, matured tomahawk steak for two and an elevated ice cream sundae.
Address: 8 Balderton St, Brown Hart Gardens, London W1K 6TF
This rustic, neighbourhood-style eatery is tucked away in a cosy corner of East London, charming diners with its homely cooking and down-to-earth approach to Italian fare. Seasonal, local produce is truly championed here, resulting in humble, warming dishes that are made for winter months.
Riviera is the newest addition to the Zandi brothers’ Emerald Hospitality Group collection and has quickly become one of the capital’s most sought after spots thanks to its dedication to excellent food. Reminiscent of Saint Tropez’s charming restaurant scene with raffia panelling, warm lighting and an inviting cocktail menu before you, Riviera makes it hard to believe you’re not dining in the Med. This refinement continues through to the menu with dishes drawing upon traditional French ingredients and modernising them to produce fresh and flavourful dishes. Riviera will take you on a romantic Mediterranean escape, without even leaving London!
There is a reason Perilla is widely lauded among Londoners, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience in a charming setting. Nestled in Newington Green, the restaurant is leading the locavore dining resurgence, championing seasonal, local produce displayed in a thoughtful menu. The atmosphere is elegant, the service memorable and the dishes full of technique, making it a must-visit.
Address: 1-3 Green Lanes, Newington Green, London N16 9BS
A pink-hued paradise with sweeping views of Battersea’s iconic power station, JOIA is a masterful blend of aesthetics and culinary delights. Lisbon-born chef Henrique Sá Pessoa is at the helm of a diverse ship, curating a menu of flavours which celebrate both Portugal and Spain. The view alone makes it worthy of a mention, but what keeps people coming back are the humble yet expertly crafted dishes with an impeccable tapas selection.
Address: 15th Floor, 1 Electric Blvd, Nine Elms, London SW11 8BJ
Having been awarded three Michelin stars, there isn’t much convincing required when it comes to booking a table here. As one of London’s most prestigious restaurants, menu heavy hitters include caviar, lobster and wagyu, each crafted to perfection. Dining experiences at Hélène Darroze are designed to be long, leisurely and above all else, savoured.
Cellar at Kindred is a true hidden gem and the perfect date night for those who want to avoid the bustle of central London. Perfectly self-described as a neighbourhood hang out, it’s the perfect place to set up camp at the window counter and watch the world go by as you make your way through their delicious small plates and curated cocktail list. The dim lighting, gold accents and deep green walls create an intimate setting to enjoy their broad menu of locally sourced, ingredient-led dishes. Whether you’re fancying some light bites to accompany your tipple, or a sharing dish of Jacob’s Ladder ribs to have with your bottle of red, Cellar is dedicated to offering a shared dining experience from morning ‘till after hours.
Address: Bradmore House, Queen Caroline St, London W6 9BW
As the name implies, this venue is situated 37 floors above London, making it the ideal vantage point for dramatic views of the city. Head Chef, Kerth Gumbs has dabbled with an abundance of flavour profiles, with a distinct nod to his Anguillan roots, resulting in a Caribbean-led menu brought to life with British ingredients. Each dish can be matched to an award-winning wine list, allowing you to elevate your dining experience even further.
Address: Level 37, Sky Garden Walk, 1, London EC3M 8AF
Towering ceilings, large arch windows and white tablecloths are just a few key design features present in Galvin La Chapelle. Serving French cuisine with a distinct European influence, this Michelin star venue has garnered a reputation for beautifully presented dishes, warm hospitality and an upmarket, old-world aesthetic.
Contemporary Sicilian fare is served across three floors in this Fitzrovia-based venue. Overhanging lights cast an intimate glow while booths offer the opportunity to sit side-by-side with your sweetheart. From a stuffed beetroot gnocchi and roasted stone bass with saffron pangrattato, the menu is distinctively Italian, with the welcoming hospitality you’d expect from an old-school trattoria.
Looking to venture a little further afield? May we suggest The Langley, a Luxury Collection, in leafy Buckinghamshire. The Cedar restaurant is known for its European fare — with French, Italian and Spanish-inspired dishes — expertly executed using local produce. For Valentine's Day the restaurant is serving a decadent 5-course menu with standout dishes including delicate scallop ceviche, rich crab and mascarpone ravioli, and hearty roasted duck breast on pumpkin puree. The dessert offering is particularly decadent: think raspberry and white chocolate mousse with a fragrant lychee ice cream and an indulgent macadamia and dark chocolate cake served with Guinness ice cream.
£180 per person for the Valentine's Day five-course menu including a glass of champagne on arrival.
Tucked away in Mayfair, this Art Deco-inspired eatery is known as something of a hidden gem in the capital. Now it's redefining the day date thanks to its new ‘All-Day Set Menu’, from Monday-Friday. Stretching from 12pm to 6.30pm it celebrates the return of the long and languid lunch. Guests can dine on classic dishes such as roast cauliflower soup with a creamy walnut pesto or a zingy salmon tartare, followed by rigatoni pomodoro with mascarpone and vodka or a hearty steak haché. Be sure to save room for dessert: nostalgic dishes like sticky toffee pudding and a rhubarb and custard coupe will sate any sweet tooth.
Accompany your meal with a carafe of the red or white wine, on rotation daily.
Address: 34 Grosvenor Sq, S Audley St, London W1K 2HD
If you are looking for a distinguished French restaurant in London, it has to be Balthazar. The iconic Covent Garden brasserie has partnered with Picturehouse Entertainment throughout February on a dining experience, celebrating the February 14 release of ‘The Taste of Things’. This picturesque romantic film was the winner of Best Director at Cannes Film Festival 2023. The menu distills pivotal moments from the film into memorable dishes such as a light Lyonnaise Salad, Le Pot Au Feu (a medley of slow cooked meats with sauce verte) and Pears & Cream (a delicately poached pear accompanied by lashings of Chantilly cream and decadent chocolate sauce.) Each dish comes with a harmonious wine pairing, to amplify the culinary journey.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a modern Palestinian feast at Fadi Kattan’s AKUB in charming Notting Hill. Indulge in a sharing-style menu featuring freshly baked Zaatar bread, flavorful large plates like Crunchy Mansaf or Monkfish Zibdeyyeh, and decadent desserts such as Dead Sea Chocolate Cake with Tahina ice cream. Sip on the special Valentine’s cocktail, Ishq Al Rumman—a delightful blend of gin, pomegranate, orange blossom, and Prosecco—for a romantic and unforgettable dining experience.
This Valentine’s Day, Popham in London Fields is turning up the romance with a cosy pasta evening you won’t want to miss. By night, the beloved bakery becomes a warm neighborhood spot serving up a special five-course menu created by Executive Chef Phil King and Head Chef Rae Arends. Expect seasonal British and Italian-inspired dishes perfect for sharing, like Winter tomato pappa al pomodoro with burrata, hand-shaped orecchiette with meatballs, and slow-cooked lamb shoulder with white beans. Save room for the star of the show: a luscious blood orange and chocolate mousse made to be enjoyed with your special someone.
This Valentine’s Day, escape to the romantic hideaway of The Aubrey, the stylish Japanese izakaya tucked beneath Knightsbridge’s Mandarin Oriental hotel. Treat yourself and your loved one to Pinku no hāto, a gorgeous heart-shaped cheesecake wrapped in a sakura shell. With layers of vanilla sponge, mango purée, lemongrass crumble, and meringue, this bright pink dessert is as delicious as it is beautiful. It’s the sweetest way to end an evening of elegant Japanese dining and unforgettable moments.
This Valentine’s Day, Fortnum & Mason is bringing love to life with their bold and colourful ‘Unleashing the Love’ campaign. At The Royal Exchange, you can enjoy a romantic evening filled with live music and a special menu crafted just for the occasion. Treat yourself and your loved one to dishes like seared Scallops with Cauliflower Purée, Capers & Raisins and Chocolate Fondant with Vanilla Ice Cream & Griottine Cherries. It’s the perfect setting for a memorable celebration of love!
Address: 4-7 Royal Exchange, City of London, London EC3V 3LR
This Valentine’s Day, whisk your loved one away to the enchanting Hampton Manor in the West Midlands for a truly unforgettable escape. Your romantic 24-hour getaway begins with a welcome drink, followed by an afternoon wine tasting and a candlelit five-course dinner in the Manor’s grand dining room. Think dishes like Tandoori monkfish, Hereford beef fillet, and a dreamy apple tarte tatin to finish. After dinner, retreat to one of the estate’s uniquely designed rooms for a cosy overnight stay, and wake up to a delicious breakfast together. A perfect blend of romance, relaxation, and indulgence—starting from £300 per person.
Address: Shadowbrook Ln, Hampton in Arden, Solihull B92 0EN
Tucked away in the heart of Bloomsbury, Café Deco is the perfect place for a cosy, candlelit dinner with your special someone. Head chef Anna Tobias creates magic with her fresh take on classic European dishes, from simple, comforting soups to her famous Eggs mayonnaise. For dessert, treat yourself to timeless favourites like Almond cake with poached seasonal fruits or a rich Chocolate mousse with whipped cream—perfect for sharing. With its intimate, European bistro vibe, Café Deco is the ultimate spot to enjoy great food and even better company this Valentine’s Day.
Nestled in the heart of the city, Prawn on the Lawn is the kind of place where the freshest British seafood meets intimate, candle-lit charm. Run by husband-and-wife team Katie and Rick Toogood, it’s a cosy spot perfect for a romantic evening. Start with the oysters, enjoy a beautifully cooked whole fish, and end with their irresistible Basil panna cotta—each bite more delicious than the last.
Nestled in the basement of One Hundred Shoreditch Hotel, Seed Library is the perfect place to unwind with creative cocktails. Led by the award-winning Mr Lyan, the bar offers a fresh, lo-fi approach to classic drinks, constantly evolving with new twists. Whether you’re in the mood for a reimagined favourite or want to explore their handpicked selection of low-intervention wines and craft beers, the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting – an ideal spot for a casual yet special night out.
Address: One Hundred Shoreditch, 100 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JQ
For a romantic night out, Trullo in London has everything you could want: intimate booths, a warm atmosphere, and incredible Italian food. Chef-owner Conor Gadd and his team bring the best of British ingredients to the table, creating dishes inspired by northern and central Italy. From roasted Delica pumpkin with gorgonzola fonduta to a perfectly aged T-bone steak, each plate is packed with flavour. And to top it all off, don’t miss their famous Tiramisu—it’s the perfect ending to a memorable evening.
Skip the typical Valentine's plans and gather your favourite people for a fun night at Lyaness, nestled in the heart of Sea Containers London. The stylish setting and buzzing atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a celebration with friends. Curated by the talented Mr Lyan (Ryan Chetiyawardana) and his expert team, the drinks menu is all about creativity, featuring unique concoctions like the Safety Frappé and the iconic Unfiltered Martini. Raise a glass and enjoy an unforgettable evening at one of London's most exciting cocktail bars.
Address: Sea Containers, 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD
Treat yourself and someone special to an unforgettable Valentine’s Day at Fenchurch, where the spectacular views are matched only by the incredible flavours. Chef Kerth Gumbs’ five-course tasting menu combines the best of British produce with vibrant Caribbean flair. Start your evening with champagne and a truffle cheese and ham toastie, then enjoy dishes like cured salmon with beetroot and pressed pear and the star of the show – a mouthwatering peppered lamb loin. End on a sweet note with a rich red velvet cake.
Address: The Fenchurch Building, Level 37, Sky Garden Walk, 1, London EC3M 8AF
This Valentine’s week, COYA invites you to experience the vibrant flavours of Peru with a special set menu designed to celebrate love and friendship. From February 10th to 14th, both COYA Mayfair and COYA City are serving up a feast of signature Latin American dishes, including a tantalising Tiradito de Vieiras Y Pera Nash with Orkney scallops, nashi pears, and a black truffle sauce. For dessert, indulge in the indulgent Chocolate Corazón Dessert. To make the occasion even more memorable, sip on the bespoke Pink Pisco Sour, infused with strawberry, lychee, and rose, with romantic messages on top.
Address: 118 Piccadilly, London W1J 7NW Reservations: sevenrooms.com
Chotto Matte, Soho
This Valentine’s weekend, Chotto Matte is bringing the heat with their ‘Love at First Bite: Tuna Edition.’ Indulge in a mouthwatering selection of tuna dishes carefully crafted by Chef Jordan Sclare, blending Japanese and Peruvian influences. Enjoy unique creations like Toro Tartare, Otoro Aburi Nigiri, and the indulgent Love Maki, all perfectly paired with a bottle of MIO Sparkling Sake or Sho Chiku Bai Gokai Nama Sake. To set the mood, each couple will receive a welcome drink, and for an extra touch of romance, try the Flor de L’Amor cocktail. Don’t forget to share your love notes at the playful ‘Kokuhaku’ Post-it Wall for a memorable experience.
Celebrate love in timeless elegance at William IV this Valentine’s Day. For one night only, the charming 200-year-old pub on Shepherdess Walk invites you to an intimate three-course dining experience in its candlelit Georgian Dining Room. Begin with a glass of Llopart Brut Rosé Corpinnat before indulging in a menu of refined yet approachable British dishes crafted with the finest seasonal ingredients. Enhance the romance with oysters and end the night with a fireside nightcap in the cosy downstairs bar—book now for a Valentine’s celebration to remember.
January is by and far the most popular month to go teetotal, and for good reason. The start of a new year signals time for change, with many choosing to abstain from alcohol as a means of starting off on the right foot (read: with zero hangover regrets).
