London is one of the most romantic cities in the world. There’s perhaps nowhere better to enjoy some serious quality time with your partner this Valentine’s Day.
And whether you’re planning a first date or you’ve been together for years, there are hundreds of exceptional restaurants just ripe for a Valentine’s visit. The choice can be almost overwhelming—which is why I’ve put together 8 of the best. These are some of the select eateries I recommend to my clients, whether they’re meeting a match for the very first time or they’re several dates in. Which will you choose?
1. The Midnight Apothecary, Rotherhithe
How d’you like the sound of sipping something fabulous beneath the stars in a rooftop garden? Look no further than The Midnight Apothecary, where they conjure up magical cocktails with ingredients sourced from their very own garden and selected right there in front of you. Prepare to encounter exotic tastes you’d never even imagined. This is a truly unique experience—not least because you’re on the roof of the famous Brunel Museum!
The expert mixologists have even innovated midwinter cocktails specially for Valentine’s Day, as well as deluxe hot rum toddies, which you can enjoy alongside sumptuous sizzling dishes sure to keep you toasty. And inside the underground grand entrance hall you can dance the night away with your Valentine, letting your hair down to the alluring sounds of the Nathan Osgood Trio. There’s even a campfire for indulging in some roasted marshmallows and other grilled treats! So if you’re after a varied evening of diverse tastes and activities, there are few better date spots this Valentine’s than The Midnight Apothecary.
2. Bateaux London Valentine’s Cruise
Isn’t it about time you enjoyed your dinner on the move? There’s no better time to book your tickets and jump on Bateaux London’s Valentine’s Cruise. With panoramic views of the capital, enjoy prosecco and a decadent meal on an elegant rose-covered table. From your unique fluvial vantage point during your two-hour tour of the Big Smoke, get up close and personal with a number of world-famous landmarks—in the company of the person you love most.
3. Little Nan’s Bar, Deptford
This establishment is pretty much the dictionary definition of quirky. Little Nan’s Bar is a cute choice for anyone determined to get away from ‘mainstream’ Valentine date spots! Little Nan’s is the place to be if you like cocktails served in teapots and a naughty bottomless pick ’n’ mix snack selection. Kick back surrounded by 90s memorabilia—with the requisite accompanying soundtrack, naturellement.
4. Champor Champor, London Bridge
Situated right beside The Shard, this exquisite Thai–Malay restaurant serves up a smörgåsbord of delectable dishes. Champor Champor is a Malay expression, roughly translating to mix and match—and that’s exactly what you can expect! This Valentine’s Day the restaurant has a special set menu showcasing the finest of both their cuisines, which you can indulge in while surrounded by exotic statues, artefacts, and silks on a candlelit balcony.
5. Fiume, Battersea
For fans of Italian food, there are few finer eateries on offer this Valentine’s eve. The restaurant has awesome views over the Thames—so good, in fact, that they’re embedded right there in the name: fiume is Italian for river. Decorated with olive trees and pots of lavender, Fiume effortlessly evokes times gone by on the Italian Riviera. This Valentine’s Day Fiume have put together a spectacular sharing menu, including a selection of irresistible Mediterranean delicacies.
6. Clos Maggiore, Covent Garden
Clos Maggiore is consistently voted the world’s most romantic restaurant. Set in the heart of Covent Garden, the decoration is enchanting—an evening there was once described as ‘like eating inside a fairytale’. For an unforgettable evening, experience exquisite food in the midst of a fusion of candles, starlight, and crackling fireplaces. What more could you ask for on Valentine’s Day?
7. Red Rooster, Shoreditch
How does a night of American soul food while sipping Veuve Clicquot rosé champagne sound? Will you have the lobster, the octopus—or the milk chocolate and hazelnut tart? And how about a live four-piece band playing your favourite old-time love songs while you dine? Red Rooster is a super choice if you’re looking for somewhere romantic yet full of energy.
8. Shangri-La The Shard, London Bridge
Home to no fewer than three diverse restaurants, at the Shangri-La Hotel atop The Shard you’ll take in the finest views London has to offer. Experience a delectable afternoon tea at TĪNG, indulge in fancy sunset cocktails and late-night drinks in chic surroundings at Bar 31, or dine at GŎNG—the highest bar in the whole city!
Wherever you end up this Valentine’s, remember: romance is key
No matter which excellent restaurant you and your partner dine at this Valentine’s Day, keep in mind that your actions ultimately speak even more loudly than the fabulous eaterie you find yourselves in. Be romantic; let your partner know just how much they mean to you, and how privileged you feel to be spending such a wonderful night with them.
If you are ready to meet someone special, contact the friendly award winning matchmakers at Drawing Down the Moon Matchmaking.
