18 London Restaurants You Must Eat In Before You Die

Très tasty.

1. Clos Maggiore, Covent Garden

Instagram: @hungryy.bunny

If you're after a romantic meal, this Covent Garden establishment offers the absolute dream. With fairytale decor (its ceiling is completely obscured by apple blossoms for one), and a highly recommended contemporary French menu, how can you not love it?

2. Marianne, Notting Hill

Instagram: @passagemgastronomica

Marianne is the top place for a fine French meal in west London. Owned by classically trained chef Marianne Lumb, the intimate spot – located in a mews in Notting Hill – offers a charming atmosphere and an even more charming menu.

3. Escoffier, Westminster

Instagram: @xnicolalynchx

The conceptual and delicate menu of Escoffier, which is tucked into the Vincent Rooms of Kingsway College, celebrates French cuisine like no other, served by up-and-coming culinary students.

4. Les Deux Salons, Trafalgar Square

Instagram: @lesdeuxsalons

For an authentic French experience in the heart of London, Les Deux Salons is the spot for you. It's renowned for its pastries and dessert, but the restaurant has a killer savoury selection too.

5. L’Escargot, Soho

Instagram: @missiecindz

You'll hardly be surprised to discover that the escargot at Soho's beloved L'Escargot is to die for. But that's not all. 2016's Open Table Diner's Choice winner does a splendid Sunday brunch with a French twist, and the wine list is one for the ages.

6. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Covent Garden

Instagram: @kunkunkun_lisa

This artsy, Michelin-starred spot in Covent Garden combines French graces with London edge for a spectacularly unique dining experience. Set over three floors, L''Atelier subscribes to the French ideal of making a meal an experience – and that's definitely what you're getting.

7. La Poule au Pot, Belgravia

Instagram: @dansreview

For a simple but delicious French meal, head for the sweetest little bistro in Belgravia. Dripping in charm, La Poule au Pot will transport you across the channel for a delightful lunch or dinner – and don't you dare skip dessert!

8. Le Garrick, Covent Garden

Instagram: @le_garrick

If you fancy a French pre-theatre menu, you'll find the perfect offerings at Le Garrick. Featuring a traditional French menu and stunning ambience, Le Garrick has been a favourite of the West End theatre crowd for 30 years.

9. Blanchette, Soho

Instagram: @blanchettesoho

The French-inspired small plates of Blanchette are an unmissable Soho lunch option. With a stellar cheese selection and an ever-evolving menu, it's perfect for a light but full-flavoured meal.

10. Bar Boulud, Knightsbridge

Instagram: @thomaspiat

For a hotel bar worth visiting, check out the stunning Bar Boulud at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel in Knightsbridge. With its creative and fresh seasonal menu, plus a killer wine list, you can't go wrong.

11. Terroirs, Covent Garden

Instagram: @terroirswinebar

This delightful Parisian-style wine bar is a must visit for a late, lazy lunch or a cheeky cheeseboard. The constantly changing menu and impressive drinks list will keep you coming back, and the atmosphere's not too shabby either.

12. Brasserie Toulouse Lautrec, Kennington

Instagram: @btlrestaurant

If you're all about the ambience, you must spend the evening at Toulouse Lautrec. The intimate and atmospheric brasserie hosts regular jazz nights, and serves up a range of French classics sure to satisfy.

13. Casse-Croûte, Southwark

Instagram: @sylvainsld

Casse Croûte is without doubt one of the most charming establishments in London. Tucked along Bermondsey Street, the delightful spot serves a menu du jour, so prepare to be pleasantly surprised.

14. Frenchie, Covent Garden

Instagram: @andreaspassions

The sister to its Paris-born original, Frenchie is the perfect spot to find the best fusion of French classics and contemporary creative cuisine. Since opening in February 2016, the restaurant has been making waves with its fantastic approach to fusion flavours, and shouldn't be missed.

15. Aubaine, South Kensington

Instagram: @janet_liuuu

If you're in the mood for a long, luxurious terrace-style breakfast, then Aubaine's your place. With locations across London, it's a quick fix for your croissant craving and serves a mean café au lait. The lunch and dinner menus are worth a brag, too.

16. Brasserie Zédel, Piccadilly Circus

Instagram: @emma4143

It's all about the vibe at this central London staple. With its grand art deco interior and extensive menu, Zédel is a must for anyone looking for a full-on French dining experience.

17. Palm Court Brasserie, Covent Garden

Instagram: @janed40

There are a lot of options for French cuisine in Covent Garden, but for a lovely, but understated meal, look no further than the Palm Court Brasserie. The intimate spot overlooks the Covent Garden piazza and has the easy feel of a traditional Parisian bistro, with a rich, flavourful menu to match its authentic appearance.

18. La Petite Auberge, Islington

Instagram: @mollyahmed

This unassuming, locally sourced bistro in Islington is London's best spot for French flavours on the go. Its quick-stop creperie plus full-service restaurant make grabbing a tasty and traditional French bite easy, flexible, and delicious.

On March 21, over 1,700 chefs worldwide will be celebrating French cuisine in partnership with Goût de France by serving traditional French dishes.