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Luxury dining was once associated with special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, engagements and even business meetings. Yet in the digital age of social media and influencers it’s become commonly known as a lifestyle and hobby. Quality food and luxury dining experiences in London are never in short supply. Whether you’re looking for a reason to treat yourself, or celebrate a loved one, make sure you add these five luxury dining locations to your dining list.
May Fair Kitchen
This hidden gem is snuggly tucked away in the back streets of Mayfair; an unlikely yet perfect pairing of Italian and Japanese Izakaya cuisine. As part of the May Fair Hotel chain, you can expect an impeccable standard of presentation and quality of taste in the dishes. The Japanese menu offers the very best of fresh Sashimi, Tempura, Wagyu and Vegetarian options. The star of the Italian side of the menu is the rich and creamy Pecorino pasta, freshly made and cooked to perfection. If feel spoilt for choice with this menu, there is the option to sample a little of everything. May Fair Kitchen provide a Bespoke Dining Menu from £65-£95 per person, including starters, mains and dessert. The restaurant offers its diners indoor seating and a covered and heated terrace. I highly recommend requesting the terrace seating for a bright ambiance and a more intimate dining experience.
Jamavar, Mayfair
If you are looking for Indian cuisine that doesn’t compromise its rich and traditional flavours, Jamavar in Mayfair is worth exploring. A contemporary restaurant, boosting of authentic and modernised recipes, inspired by the street food markets of Northern and Southern India. The menu caters to the traditional recipes such as Biryani, Butter Chicken and Peshwari Naan, and brings a modern Indian-inspired twist to its small plates like the Scallop Moilee – hand-dived and seared scallops, sat in a rich coconut sauce, ginger relish and topped with thinly cut plantain crisps. The serene nature of the restaurant makes this an ideal spot for a date night or celebrating a special occasion with friends and family. Prices range from £13 for small plates and £55 for large plates.
Champagne Terrace Perrier-Jouët, Harrods
The Harrods Garden Terrace is the perfect hideaway after a day of excitable shopping in Knightsbridge. A peaceful terrace, over-looking the Knightsbridge skyline, serving Mediterranean dishes with a glass of Maison Perrier-Jouët. The menu comprises of small plates (hot and cold), seafood platters, charcuterie boards, caviar, desserts, and a wide range of drinks including champagnes, wines and mocktails. My favourite dishes among the small hot plates included the crispy calamari served with chilli, garlic and parsley mayonnaise, the 32-day dry aged fillet steak and the triple-cooked Maris Piper fries. This is also a beautiful location for catching the sunset over London, which makes for great photos too!
Bocconcinco, Mayfair
This much-loved Italian restaurant is home to the finest cuisines of the Mediterranean coast, from Tuscany to Napoli. The menu reflects the best of Italy, from wood fired pizzas, artfully seared meats, and the freshest seafoods and salads. For the sweet tooths, make a mental note that the dessertmenu is not to be skipped! Dishes like the Sicilian cannoli, Lemon tarts and Tiramisù each offer a unique tasting experience that will leave you craving for more. The romantic mood lighting of this restaurant is perfect for date night and celebrations with a small group of friends.
Pen Yen, Shoreditch House
As far as luxury dining goes, Pen Yen quickly became one of my top restaurants of the year. Pen Yen is exclusive to Soho House members and located in the prestigious Shoreditch House. This stunning terrace restaurant will steal your heart with its floral displays, natural light, and contemporary décor. Its cuisine is Japanese Izakaya-style dining, serving small plates designed for sharing with your dining partner. The Robata and Wood Oven sections of the menu will leave you grinning from ear to ear – its Black Cod, Pork ribs and Japanese Wagyu beef strips are mouth-wateringly good, as well as the Nigri and Maki menu options. As expected, the service here is top quality and each dish will leave you wanting to book your next visit.
