14 food and drink destinations to visit in the heart of London

Whether you’re after a boujee brunch with friends at the weekend, a celebratory dinner at a renowned dining institution or simply a quaint spot to enjoy a drink as the afternoons begin to extend longer into the evening, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Mayfair or Belgravia.

The beloved central London destinations embody everything that is great about our capital city: a buzzing atmosphere, beautiful surrounding architecture and green spaces, and – of course – an impressive range of eating and drinking spots with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.

With restrictions steadily easing, now’s the perfect time to discover your new favourite haunts. Here are 14 places you’ll want on your radar…

Pantechnicon is a five-storey dining and shopping destination dedicated to Nordic and Japanese culture. On the second floor is eldr (pictured above), which showcases a range of dishes inspired from 10 Nordic countries. At sachi on the lower ground floor, diners can delight in regional Japanese dishes. Plus, there’s a gorgeous rooftop perfect for sunny evenings. 19 Motcomb St, London, SW1X

A new arrival to Belgravia’s Elizabeth Street, Chestnut Bakery prides itself on celebrating international baking traditions, from fresh sourdough loaves and ciabattas to millefeuille and brownies. 17-21 Elizabeth St, London, SW1W

Surround yourself with luxury on a visit to Hélène Darroze at The Connaught – a three-Michelin star restaurant with an exceptional menu developed by one of France’s leading chefs, all set within an elegant dining room that’ll go straight on your Pinterest board. Carlos Place, London, W1K

Mercato Mayfair isn’t your typical indoor food hall. The community market is located within a Grade I listed building, boasting two levels of food stalls and bars, as well as a microbrewery and a wine cellar. St Mark’s Church, North Audley St, London, W1K

There’s plenty to enjoy at The Berkeley, one of London’s most iconic hotels. Enjoy contemporary British cuisine in Marcus, the relaxed-yet-sophisticated restaurant helmed by popular chef Marcus Wareing. Or if you’re feeling thirsty, you’ll find delicious cocktails at the Blue Bar and everything from vintage champagne to single malts at The Berkeley Bar. Wilton Place, London, SW1X

The Berkeley also boasts a brilliant alfresco set-up you won’t want to miss. Launched earlier this year, The Berkeley Beach Huts are rainbow-hued undercover settings from which you can enjoy elevated seaside classics. Think lobster and fries, gourmet 99s and retro-inspired cocktails. Wilton Place, London, SW1X

Anyone with a sweet tooth should pay a visit to Peggy Porschen – the legendary cupcakes and mouthwatering afternoon tea are proof that the hype is well-deserved. 116 Ebury St, London, SW1W

With a weekend brunch menu that’ll have you feeling spoiled for choice and a chic, relaxed setting to enjoy it in, NAC (North Audley Cantine) is the perfect destination to catch up with friends while enjoying delicious food. 41 North Audley St, London, W1K

Voted the number-one steakhouse in London by Steak Society, The Jones Family Kitchen is a Belgravia gem serving up the sort of wholesome fare you won’t forget anytime soon. 7-8 Eccleston Yards, London, SW1W

For a delicious pub lunch that really hits the spot, head to The Thomas Cubitt, whose menu is created using sustainably sourced produce. Enjoy the buzzy atmosphere of the pub on the ground floor, or opt for the first-floor dining room for something more formal. Its sister pubs – The Orange on Pimlico Road and The Alfred Tennyson on Motcomb Street – in Belgravia are also recommended. 44 Elizabeth St, London, SW1W

Serving Robatoyaki cuisine – a method of cooking food over hot charcoal – ROKA is an award-winning restaurant with style. 30 North Audley St, London, W1K

Sustainability, foraging and zero waste is at the heart of Native at Browns, a creative dining destination where you can expect imaginative small plates created with local produce, natural wines and signature cocktails. 39 Brook St, London, W1K

Whisky fans and lovers of live music should be sure to pay a visit to Boisdale’s Belgravia outpost (there’s a Boisdale's in Mayfair too), which serves a menu of traditional British food and impressive selection of whisky, all soundtracked by brilliant musicians. 15 Eccleston St, London, SW1W

From breakfast acai bowls and matcha lattes to peanut-crusted tuna and miso aubergine, there’s something to enjoy at any time of day at Morena, the colourful Latin American spot in Eccleston Yards. 10-11 Eccleston Yards, London, SW1W

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