This historic district, often overshadowed by its corporate façade, has a dining scene that’s more than just a well-kept secret. If you thought it was all about legal jargon and paperwork, prepare to have your taste buds pleasantly surprised.
Whether you’re craving classic fish and chips, seeking out artsy cafes, indulging in fine dining, or cosying up in unassuming neighbourhood joints, Holborn has it all. This place is an unexpected haven for foodies.
Don’t believe us? Well then – join us on a culinary expedition through these streets, where the food speaks volumes without the need for hype or fanfare.
Holborn Dining Room
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Location: 252 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EN, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3747 8633
Pricing: £££
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 7:30 AM to 9:45 PM
The setting here is almost theatrical – antique mirrors that have witnessed a hundred whispered secrets, reclaimed oak that stands testament to timeless elegance, and red leather banquettes that whisper ‘luxury’ in every crease.
The Pie Room is where the Holborn Dining Room transforms into a culinary time machine, taking you back to the days when British cuisine was all about comfort, warmth, and a whole lot of flavour.
They also have over 500 gins and 30 tonics. G&T, anyone?
ROKA Aldwych
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Location: 71 Aldwych, London WC2B 4HN, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7294 7636
Pricing: £££
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Saturday – 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM
With wood-panelled interiors that ooze chicness, ROKA is a statement. A statement that says, “I know my robatayaki from my teppanyaki.”
For the uninitiated, robatayaki is a method of cooking akin to barbecue, but with a Japanese twist. It’s not just about charring meat on a grill, it’s a culinary art form. And ROKA Aldwych is a maestro of this art.
If you’re here, do your palate a favour and try the salmon fillet teriyaki, seasoned with a touch of yuzu salt. It’s the kind of dish that makes you realise why the word ‘umami’ was invented.
Cafe Murano
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Location: 36 Tavistock St, London WC2E 7PB, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7240 3654
Pricing: £££
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Saying the pasta here is fresh would be an understatement. Made daily, it’s used for dishes like the rigatoni with spicy sausage ragu and radicchio, which is a revelation.
It’s not all pasta, though. The salt cod fritters kissed with parmesan and a hint of lemon, are a marvel. And for the veggie lovers, the charred broccoli and chilli frittata is nothing short of a green, eggy paradise.
Barrafina Drury Lane
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Location: 43 Drury Ln, London WC2B 5AJ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7440 1456
Pricing: £££
Opening hours:
- Monday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Barrafina Drury Lane is modern, chic, and buzzing with an energy that’s as vibrant as the flavours it dishes out. It’s the kind of place where you walk in, and immediately, you’re transported to a lively bar in Barcelona, minus the airfare.
The food might be a tad on the pricey side, but trust me, after one bite, your wallet will forgive you. The Iberian Pork Ribs are nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. Imagine succulent, fall-off-the-bone meat, seasoned to perfection, leaving you savouring every morsel.
Kintan Japanese BBQ
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Location: 34-36 High Holborn, London WC1V 6AE, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7242 8076
Pricing: ££
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Kintan takes the concept of Japanese BBQ to a whole new level. Here, the communal aspect of dining is celebrated with fervour. Sharing isn’t just caring, it’s the way of the culinary journey at Kintan.
Here, you can start with the Toro Beef Shio, which is as tender as a love song and as flavorful as a spice bazaar. Moving on to the Chicken Teriyaki, you’ll find yourself wondering if this is what love tastes like.
And let’s not forget the umami salad – it’s like a refreshing interlude in this meaty concerto. The meal ends on a sweet note with ice cream, because what’s a feast without a little dessert, right?
Colonel Saab
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Location: 193-197 High Holborn, London WC1V 7BD, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 8016 6800
Pricing: ££
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Colonel Saab’s menu is a testament to the culinary expertise of one of India’s top food personalities, Karen Anand.
One must-try dish that exemplifies the fusion of flavours here is the “Sarsoi Ajwaini Fish Tikka”. This delectable appetizer combines the nuttiness of mustard seeds (sarsoi) with the aromatic notes of ajwain (carom seeds) to create a mouthwatering experience you won’t soon forget.
It’s a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, paying homage to India’s culinary heritage while adding a contemporary twist.
Isolabella
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Location: 45-46 Red Lion St, London WC1R 4PF, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7405 6830
Pricing: ££
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Saturday – 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM
The first thing that sets Isolabella apart is its dedication to bringing you an authentic taste of Italy with a delightful Mediterranean twist.
From the moment you set foot inside, you’ll be greeted by the warm aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces, a promise of the culinary delights that await you.
No visit to an authentic Italian restaurant is complete without indulging in some classic desserts. At Isolabella, you’re in for a treat with their irresistible Limoncello and Tiramisu.
The Bountiful Cow Public House & Dining
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Location: 51 Eagle St, London WC1R 4AP, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7404 0200
Pricing: ££
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
If you’re a steak enthusiast, this place is a carnivore’s dream come true. What sets The Bountiful Cow apart is its commitment to sourcing the finest beef, all from local butchers down the road at Smithfield Market.
Every cut of steak on their menu is carefully selected and expertly cooked to perfection. Whether you prefer a juicy ribeye, a tender filet mignon, or a flavourful sirloin, you’ll find your steak heaven here.
Noble Rot Lamb’s Conduit
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Location: 51 Lamb’s Conduit St, London WC1N 3NB, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7242 8963
Pricing: ££
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12:00 AM to 11:00 PM
If you’re seeking a dining experience that seamlessly combines exceptional wine, modern-chic ambience, and unapologetically French flavours, look no further than Noble Rot Lamb’s Conduit in Holborn.
As you make your way to the restrooms, take a moment to appreciate the comical cartoon sketches adorning the walls. It’s the little things like these that set this restaurant apart and make it a memorable destination.
One must-try dish is the “Pork and Duck Rillettes”. This indulgent appetizer is a rich and flavorful treat, a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to French culinary traditions. Spread it on warm, crusty bread, and you’ll experience a taste of heaven.
Ciao Bella
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Location: 86-90 Lamb’s Conduit St, London WC1N 3LZ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7242 4119
Pricing: ££
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Ciao Bella is renowned for serving up hearty and authentic Italian dishes that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. When it comes to pasta, they take it to a whole new level.
One must-try dish that’s an absolute standout is their “Pasta Carbonara”. It’s a classic Roman dish done to perfection. Imagine al dente spaghetti tossed with crispy pancetta, eggs, Pecorino cheese, and a pinch of black pepper.
Hiba
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Location: 113 High Holborn, London WC1V 6JJ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7831 5171
Pricing: £
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Hiba is your passport to the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Palestine and Lebanon. From the moment you set foot inside, you’ll be greeted by the enticing aroma of spices, grilled meats, and freshly baked bread.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the shawarmas at Hiba. Arguably, you won’t find a better shawarma anywhere else in London. It’s marinated prime lamb and chicken, grilled to perfection and infused with flavours.
All Star Lanes
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Location: Victoria House, Bloomsbury Pl, London WC1B 4DA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7025 2676
Pricing: £
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Thursday – 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
When it comes to satisfying your cravings for mouth-watering fried chicken, All Star Lanes is the place to be. Their “Nashville Fried Chicken” is a must-try, a perfectly crispy chicken that’s fried to golden perfection.
But before you dive into the fried chicken extravaganza, start your culinary journey with a delightful appetizer: the “Popcorn Squid”. The tender squid is battered and fried to crispy perfection, and it’s served with a side of caramelised lemon and chive mayo that defies words.
After you’ve savoured every bite, it’s time to unleash your inner bowling champion. Playing bowling at All-Star Lanes is a must! And if you want to learn more about some of the best things to do in Holborn, you can check out our article.
