From converted double-decker buses serving gourmet meals to whimsical fairytale-inspired eateries tucked away in the heart of the city, London boasts an array of dining spots that dare to break the norms and redefine how we experience food.
Join us as we take you on an expedition to the top quirky restaurants in London, where the ambience is as extraordinary as the dishes themselves.
The Electric Diner
–Media from electricdiner
Address: 191 Portobello Rd, London W11 2ED, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7908 9696
The moment you enter The Electric Diner, you’ll be greeted by neon lights that seem to dance to the beat of your excitement.
The decor is a kaleidoscope of funky colours, plush booths, and a lively atmosphere that oozes vintage chic. It’s like being in a movie scene from the ’50s, but with a dash of futuristic flair.
Dans Le Noir
–Media from danslenoirgroup
Address: 30-31 Clerkenwell Green, London EC1R 0DU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7253 1100
Picture this: you step into a pitch-black dining room and the outside world fades away. No, it’s not a power outage, folks, it’s the allure of Dans Le Noir’s atmosphere.
While the darkness adds excitement to the dining experience, there’s an underlying message that tugs at your heartstrings. Dans Le Noir aims to create awareness about blindness and promote inclusivity in the hospitality industry.
Sketch
–Media from danslenoirgroup
Address: 9 Conduit St, Mayfair, London W1S 2XG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7659 4500
When they say “You eat with your eyes first”, Sketch takes this adage to heart and turns it up to eleven! The culinary geniuses in the kitchen transform plates into canvases, crafting edible art that’s almost too pretty to eat.
But wait, there’s more! The Parlour, Sketch’s 21st-century gastro pub, serves up gourmet twists on classic comfort foods. From sumptuous brunches to heavenly burgers, this unconventional eatery proves that even casual dining can be a culinary adventure.
Circus
–Media from circuslondon
Address: 27-29 Endell St, London WC2H 9BA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7420 9300
This isn’t your average restaurant where you sit and wait for your food, oh no! At Circus, you’ll be treated to a spectacle that unfolds right before your eyes. As you feast on your delectable dishes, aerialists, acrobats, and other jaw-dropping performers will dazzle you from above.
And at Circus, even the drinks are in on the act! The cocktail menu is a carnival of creativity, where mixologists play the role of ringmaster and whip up libations that are equal parts delightful and daring.
Sarastro
–Media from sarastrorestaurant
Address: 126 Drury Ln, London WC2B 5SU, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7836 0101
Sarastro’s interior design is nothing short of jaw-dropping. As soon as you step inside, you’ll find yourself transported into a realm of theatrical wonder. It’s like Shakespeare himself teamed up with Tim Burton to create the quirkiest dining experience in town!
Now, let’s talk entertainment. Here, dining is not just about filling your belly: it’s about feeding your soul with performances. Throughout your meal, you’ll be serenaded by talented opera singers, or perhaps you’ll witness a dance routine that leaves you wanting an encore.
Bob Bob Ricard
–Media from bobbobricard
Address: 1 Upper James St, Soho, London W1F 9DF, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3145 1000
Bob Bob Ricard isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a glorious ode to opulence with a cheeky twist. As you walk through its doors, you’ll be instantly enthralled by the elegant art deco interiors that transport you back to the glamorous 1920s.
But the pièce de résistance is the quirky “Press for Champagne” button adorning every table. This sends a signal directly to the restaurant’s attentive servers, and within moments, like a genie from a bottle, they come ready to serve you a chilled flute of bubbly delight.
Inamo
–Media from inamorestaurant
Address: 11-14 Hanover Pl, London WC2E 9JP, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7484 0500
Inamo boasts an ingenious innovation that puts a spell on the senses. Their interactive tables are a foodie’s dream come true, allowing you to browse the menu with a flick of your finger, marvel at mouth-watering images of each dish, and even peek into the kitchen!
Oh, and did I mention the enchanting aura? With softly glowing tables, mood-enhancing lighting, and an atmosphere buzzing with excitement, Inamo sets the stage for a memorable night out.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
–Media from the_ivy_collection
Address: 96 Kensington High St, Kensington, London W8 4SG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3301 0500
Every dish served at The Ivy Kensington Brasserie is a work of art in itself. From the meticulously crafted plating to the vibrant colours and textures, each plate seems like a masterpiece.
Now, we don’t mean to name-drop, but this is a popular haunt for London’s glitterati. Whether you’re rubbing elbows with A-list actors, famous musicians, or renowned artists, the electric vibe makes it a prime spot for some star-studded surprises.
Bounce
–Media from bouncepingpong
Address: 121 Holborn, London EC1N 2TD, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3657 6525
Bounce Kensington Brasserie’s decor is an intoxicating blend of Victorian elegance with a splash of urban chic. Velvet curtains meet exposed brick walls, chandeliers twirl alongside neon signs, and the aroma of fusion cuisine fills the air.
This place also hosts themed events like “Ping Pong Poetry Slam” where wordsmiths and ping pong wizards duel for applause and “Masquerade Mashup” where food, fun, and masks mingle in merry mayhem.
The Cheese Bar
–Media from thecheesebarldn
Address: Unit 93-94 Camden Stables, Camden, London NW1 8AH, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7428 4922
At The Cheese Bar, they’ve cracked the code to the cheesetastic universe! From the velvety allure of gooey fondue to the grandiosity of grilled cheese masterpieces, every dish is crafted with the finest, most finger-licking artisanal cheeses known to humanity.
Plus, the events are cheesier than a classic Brie! Think cheese and wine pairing soirées that’ll make your taste buds tango, and fondue fountain feasts that’ll give Willy Wonka a run for his money.
Hakkasan
–Media from hakkasanlondon
Address: 17 Bruton St, Mayfair, London W1J 6QB, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7907 1888
Once you step into Hakkasan’s mysterious realm, you’ll find yourself transported to a world where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern marvels. It’s like stepping into a Wong Kar-wai movie, and you’re the star of this culinary drama.
A quirky restaurant wouldn’t be complete without a bar that shakes up some magical potions. Fear not, for Hakkasan have signature drinks like “Smoky Negroni” where the smoke dances enticingly around your glass, and a “Dragon’s Tail” that breathes fire into your evening.
Barrafina
–Media from barrafinadeanspecials
Address: 26-27 Dean St, London W1D 3LL, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
This gem of a culinary destination has mastered the art of Spanish tapas with a mischievous twist, elevating traditional flavours to new heights.
As you step into the intimate space, you become an engaged spectator in the culinary theatre, watching talented chefs orchestrate their masterpieces right before your eyes.
And with ever-changing specials and a libation selection that flows like the Thames, Barrafina embraces the unexpected, delighting adventurous foodies at every turn.
Flat Iron
–Media from flatironsteak
Address: 17 Beak St, Carnaby, London W1F 9RW, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
At Flat Iron, they’ve made it their beefy mission to perfect the art of steak. Their signature dish, the heavenly Flat Iron steak, is a carnivore’s dream come true! They let the flavours of their prime cuts do the talking, and oh boy, do they speak volumes.
Quirkiness oozes from every corner of Flat Iron’s eclectic décor. From rustic wooden tables adorned with quirky cutlery to funky artwork adorning the walls, it’s like stepping into a bohemian steak wonderland.
Bodega Negra
–Media from bodegacafe
Address: 16 Moor St, London W1D 5AP, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 4580 1186
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, Bodega Negra is the undisputed mariachi maestro. They’ve brought the vibrant flavours of Mexico to London’s doorstep, creating a fiesta of taste that will leave you dancing with delight!
And if you’re an Instagram aficionado, then Bodega Negra’s quirky and colourful decor is an aesthetic feast for you. From murals to funky neon lights, every corner is a photo opportunity that will ignite envy in your followers.
The Piano Works
–Media from thepianoworks
Address: 113, Corner of, 117 Farringdon Rd, Ray St, London EC1R 3BX, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7278 1966
This whimsical restaurant boasts a live band, and guess what? You get to call the tune! You can Scribble your favourite song requests on napkins, wave them in the air, and watch as the talented musicians serenade you with melodies that perfectly accompany your meal.
You can enjoy great performances while savouring their succulent steaks that sing on your palate to pasta dishes that hit all the right high notes.
And if you’re a night owl with an appetite for fun, The Piano Works is your ultimate after-hours playground. As the evening unfolds, the tempo rises, and the restaurant transforms into a lively party venue!
Bacchanalia
–Media from bacchanalialdn
Address: 1-3 Mount St, London W1K 3NA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3161 9720
Bacchanalia boasts a personality that could charm the socks off even the most stoic of food critics. Picture this: a playful fusion of Roman revelry and contemporary chic, creating a setting that teeters on the edge of extravagance without ever toppling into pretentiousness.
Bacchanalia is a true pioneer when it comes to presentation. Here, you’ll be enchanted as your meal arrives adorned in whimsical arrangements, almost too beautiful to eat (almost!). Who knew food could be such a captivating work of art? So snap a photo for the ‘gram!
Madera at Treehouse London
–Media from staytreehouse
Address: 14-15 Langham Pl, London W1B 2QS, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3988 4273
This little slice of foodie heaven is perched in an actual treehouse (yes, you heard that right!) – a secret garden in the sky where gastronomy meets arboreal magic.
And hold onto your hats, because the vibe is an immersive experience like none other! Picture this: a lush urban jungle with cascading greenery, whimsical fairy lights, and the chatter of fellow adventurers echoing in the background.
Jacuzzi
–Media from secret.london
Address: 94 Kensington High Street, London W8 4SG, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7932 960554
Jacuzzi takes dining to a whole new level by turning the conventional restaurant experience upside down – or should I say, “right-side up” in a frothy sea of fun?
The restaurant is designed to transport you to a surreal world of aqua-themed wonder. Dive into an ocean of dazzling blue hues, whimsical beachside decor, and an ambience that’s as playful as a pod of dolphins.
Oh, and did I mention the entertainment? At Jacuzzi, the party never stops! Whether it’s a “Tropical Tunesday” or a “Salsa Saturday”, every day is a celebration that’ll have you dancing your way out the door.
Coppa Club
–Media from coppaclub
Address: 3 Three Quays Walk, Lower Thames St, London EC3R 6AH, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 8016 9227
What sets Coppa Club apart from the run-of-the-mill eateries? Well, for starters (pun intended), it’s all about location, location, location! Nestled along the River Thames, this gem offers breathtaking views of London’s iconic landmarks, such as the Tower Bridge and The Shard.
Coppa Club’s ingenious design takes inspiration from those cosy, Instagram-worthy igloos that pop up on your feed every winter. Except here, you can enjoy them all year round!
The Doodle Bar
–Media from thedoodlebar.druidst
Address: 60 Druid St, London SE1 2EZ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7403 3222
What sets The Doodle Bar apart from the rest? Well, get this – each table doubles up as an artist’s canvas! Armed with a stash of chalk, you can scribble and sketch, and create edible masterpieces while waiting for your scrumptious feast to arrive.
This place also hosts an eclectic array of events that’ll make your heart sing with joy. Live music sessions that’ll make you tap your feet, improv comedy nights that’ll leave you in stitches, and open mic sessions that’ll let you unleash your inner rockstar.
Four Quarters
–Media from fourquartersbar
Address: 187 Rye Ln, London SE15 4TW, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 3754 7622
Here, nostalgia hits you like a power-up, and you find yourself surrounded by classic arcade cabinets, pinball machines, and all the pixelated wonders that made your childhood awesome.
The walls are decked out with gaming memorabilia, posters, and vintage consoles, making you feel like you’re part of a secret society of gamers. And did I mention the cocktails? Oh yes, my friends, they’ve got game-themed libations that’ll make you say, “I choose you, Pikachu!”
Draughts
–Media from draughtslondon
Address: 41 Kingsland High St, London E8 2FA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7930 936237
As you step into Draughts, you’ll be met with a treasure trove of board games that could rival King Midas’s hoard of gold! From classics like Monopoly and Scrabble to modern gems like Catan and Ticket to Ride, they’ve got it all.
Draughts’ menu is a veritable feast fit for adventurers and foodies alike, whether you’re into hearty burgers that can rival a dragon’s appetite or finger-licking good snacks that’ll keep you energised for endless rounds.
The Attendant
–Media from attendantcoffeeroasters
Address: 27A Foley St, London W1W 6DY, United Kingdom
Contact: [email protected]
Imagine stepping into a former Victorian-era public restroom – yes, you read that right – and being greeted by the delightful aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The Attendant has taken an underground loo and transformed it into a hipster haven that’s equal parts quirky and cool.
But wait, it’s not just the location that makes The Attendant a top quirky spot. The coffee itself is a divine elixir that’ll awaken your taste buds from their slumber. From velvety lattes to bold espressos, they’ve got the perfect potion to fuel your day – or night!
