The Absolute Best Date Night Restaurants In London

Steak lovers will know that Wolfgang Puck’s CUT is one of the destinations in London, with some of the best beef on offer in the capital. Don’t be intimidated by the Park Lane setting: while the restaurant is elegant and adorned with Damien Heist artworks, it’s also relaxed, comfortable, and genuinely welcoming.
CUT is where you go for a treat (although the steak and salad menu for £45 is excellent value) and you should arrive hungry. The knowledgeable waiters will happily guide you through the steak menu in detail, and explain the difference in taste and texture between each one, recommending something based on your personal preferences (and the perfect wine pairing too, of course). It’s a foodie’s dream.
After much deliberation, we had a buttery smooth 35-day-age filet mignon of USDA Prime beef, and a flavour-packed British native beef fillet on the bone. It’s tempting to over order on the sides but we reigned ourselves in with the wild field mushrooms and shishito peppers, Désiree potato purée, and a pile of crispy buttermilk onion rings served with truffle ranch.
Of course, it’s all about the meat - which will ruin you for all other steaks hereafter - but if you do have room for dessert, the banana cream pie was so spectacular, a fellow diner stopped by our table to discuss it.

Few spots in London are more perfect for a date than the Shard, with its spectacular views across the city, and the vibe at Hutong, up on the 33rd floor, is suitably buzzy and fun. Time it right for sunset for extra impressive photo opportunities. Hutong serves Northern Chinese cuisine and has several menus on offer: a weekend Dynasty Brunch, four set menus plus an a la carte for lunch and dinner, as well as a bar menu in the Shanghai Bar. You are truly spoilt for choice.
The dim sum platters are the star of the show at Hutong and we sampled the new limited-edition Northern Chinese Dim Sum offering, which include cumin-spiced lamb in a charcoal bao, wagyu beef and black truffle siu mai, garoupa and pickled chilli dumplings and (our surprise favourite) a crispy bean-curd roll with wild mushrooms. Served on a ceramic dish with dry ice for added drama, the gourmet twists will wow any dim sum lover.
If you’re after more ‘traditional’ dim sum, you are well catered for and there are elevated versions of familiar favourites like Peking Duck (served table side) too. Dessert was a spicy chocolate tart served with mandarin sorbet (delicious) and a perfectly creamy mango pudding. The cocktails from the extensive, expertly-curated menu really impressed too: the gently smoked Jasmine Garden (Jasmine tea, black cardamom infused gin, elderflower and vetiver) was genuinely one of the best cocktails we’ve ever sampled.

The Dorchester hotel is a glittering example of proper old-school London grandeur (we love a martini in the Vesper bar). Step inside and The Grill by Tom Booton gives you all the luxury and five-star service you desire (e.g. a regal stool for your handbag), with a modern edge. While you agonise over what to choose from the menu, we highly recommend trying the snacks on offer; we went for the cod doughnuts with tomato hollandaise, and a prawn taco while ummed and ahhed.  As the name suggests, the dishes from the grill are the star attraction – choose from: veal chop, beef fillet, monkfish, tranche of brill, ribeye on the bone – but there are other tantalising mains from the a la carte menu, including an epic Beef Wellington for two. Good sides matter and the waiter wisely recommended a portion each of The Grill’s chips and gravy mayonnaise (too good to share) to go with our mains and we devoured the creamed cavolo nero with confit yolk, too. The Grill’s ‘Steak Night’ offering is an astonishingly good deal: on Thursday and Friday evenings from now until 15 November 2024, you can get three courses for £55 per person, which is a very affordable way to dine at such a landmark hotel.

For Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, in a chic but relaxed atmosphere in Central London (just up from St James’ Park and a short walk from Trafalgar Square) Claro is a real hidden gem. The ever-changing, seasonal menu features delights such as venison tartare on lamb fat brioche, smoked pink trout with horseradish sauce, and octopus (grilled or carpaccio). A special mention for the short rib tortellini in an unctuous onion sauce, as well as the signature Frena bread, served with matbucha, labneh, harissa, olives – not to be missed. The menu also caters for vegetarians in an imaginative way, really showcasing what you can do with some thought and culinary flair. Think: kohlrabi steak with sage ricotta, roast chilli salsa and a sunflower seed crumble. Or, slow cooked salsify, with skordalia cream, feta cheese and roasted onion. The staff are unfailingly friendly – sit at the kitchen bar if you can for the best atmosphere – and the extremely knowledgeable sommelier will guide you through the extensive wine menu (we were recommended a delicious bottle of orange wine which we hadn’t tried before). The cocktail menu delivers, too. We recommend the Tea Time: tequila, rose syrup, and hibiscus chilli iced tea. Top tip: If you’re in town during the day it’s worth stopping by for the set lunch menu, where you can get two courses for the price of the main.

The first London outpost from the Italian restaurant brand, which was founded in Milan in 1977, Paper Moon London is nestled in The OWO (the Old War Office) on Whitehall. The building may be grand, but the atmosphere is relaxed - luxe but friendly. The waiter was unfazed when asked for the ‘sweetest cocktail on the menu’. 
As for the food, you’ll find classic antipasti - parmigiana, polpo, fritto misto - alongside more elaborate options, like Battuto Di Manzo, a beef tartare with burrata, sweet and sour red onion, shaved black truffle and toasted hazelnuts. 
The fresh pasta selection includes fish cappellacci, linguine with Alaskan king crab (which we devoured), and the restaurant’s namesake Pappardelle Paper Moon with bacon, tomato and cream. Other signature dishes include Coda di Rospo - grilled monkfish with Jerusalem artichoke cream and asparagus - and Milanese favourite Ossobuco di Vitello, braised veal shank with saffron risotto. Yum. 
Dessert must be sampled - and you will want to mix and match with your table mates so you can try as much as possible - from the tiramisu to the pifferi croccanti stuffed with vanilla semifreddo, pistachio and hazelnut, and served with a silky chocolate sauce. 
London is awash with Italian restaurants right now, but Paper Moon is a classy, considered cut above the rest.

For French-Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting, look no further. Just off Sloane Street and a five minute stroll from Harrods, La Maison Ani is located in Jumeirah Carlton Tower, looking onto Cadogan Place. 
Make sure to arrive hungry. The extensive menu caters for all tastes, appetites and fancies. For example, there are 13 salads on offer, from lobster cocktail to a classic niçoise (warm starters include escargots, truffle tart, and harissa prawns). This is somewhere where you can order caviar - or a burger (albeit a Wagyu beef burger). 
For the main event there’s a great selection of fish (we had perfectly cooked Dover sole meunière served table side, the salt-baked sea bass is also dished up with added theatre) and meat (the slow-cooked short rib looked mouthwatering). Order a side of the crispy baby potatoes: perfection. There’s also a selection of light and crispy pizzas, classic pasta dishes - spaghetti alle vongole, penne arrabbiata - and creamy risottos. 
The dessert menu includes showstoppers for two to share, including a truly epic tarte tatin, and their signature warm chocolate mousse with malt ice cream. Perfect for date night. 
If you’re in the area during the day, La Maison Ani serves breakfast (treat yourself to Oeufs Neptune: poached eggs with lobster and Hollandaise) and an impossible-to-resist selection of viennoiserie and patisserie, think pistachio brioche, raspberry tarts and coconut cookies.

Starting off strong with the ultimate sexy date night, Lío London's dinner and show offering makes for a completely unique experience you'll want to come back to month after month. An impressive cabaret performance follows the most delectable dining experience, with sexy and awe-inspiring performances bound to heat up your night.
Already legendary in Ibiza and Mykonos, Lío arrived in London last year, bringing its
trademark all-singing, all-dancing (literally) show-dining experience to the old Cafe de Paris
building on Leicester Square. After dinner, stay behind for the club opening from 11.30pm, if you want to enjoy a dance with your lover.
For Valentine's Day, they're hosting 'an evening of a thousand kisses' with a special Lovers Menu (including expertly crafted cocktails and desserts to share) which you can enjoy before watching their world famous show ‘Besos, Beats and Beauties’. [Enquire about their various dining packages, starting from £100pp, here.]{href='https://liolondon.co.uk/' }

Chelsea hotspot BÓHA London has partnered with Champagne Laurent-Perrier for Valentine’s Week this year, to offer guests a decadent, four course set menu, served with two glasses of Laurent- Perrier Champagne, and an extra special Valentine’s Day dessert designed for two to share.
The BÓHA Lovers’ Menu will be served (alongside the restaurant’s A La Carte), from Wednesday, 14 February, until Saturday, 17 February, priced at £75 per person including a glass of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé and a glass of Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée. But you can also choose to upgrade their experience with a selection of wines paired to the dishes on the set menu, for an additional £50 per person (£125 per person total). 
On arrival, expect cocktails on your table and a beautifully designed menu detailing the dishes, Laurent-Perrier Champagne, wine pairings. Also on the table will be a small Laurent-Perrier envelope, containing a card encouraging guests to enter a competition to win BÓHA London and Champagne Laurent-Perrier prizes, one prize will be won each day between the 14th and 17th of February!

What do you look for in a date venue? If the answer is amazing food, a stylish but chilled-out vibe, friendly service and thoughtfully designed acoustics that mean you can actually hear your date talking, then get Saltine on your list. The brainchild of Mat Appleton and Jess Blackstone, who are behind Fink’s, the North London cafe chain, the pair teamed up with Chef Phil Wood for their new venture - a chic but welcoming neighbourhood restaurant in Highbury Park. The menu of seasonal dishes is led by sustainable ingredients that shine through in every dish. 

The waiting staff suggested we try the pumpkin starter, which has been flying off the menu since they opened in October, plus the roast beef and horseradish main. We happily obliged, adding a white crab and fennel starter to our order too. Each plate was impeccable - elevating relatively simple-sounding dishes to superstar status with a clever use of great ingredients.

The service was perfect - attentive without being overbearing, which is crucial when you’re trying to work out if you’re going to follow up with date number two (or in our case, discuss who’s going to unload the dishwasher when we get home) and did we mention the acoustics? 

Whether it’s date number three, date number 300, or a date with mates, get Saltines on your list, it won’t disappoint.

The celebrity hot spot gracing north London is Cafe KOKO, a lively day-to-night eatery and music venue in Camden, situated behind London’s iconic KOKO. Serving up soulful Italian cooking with a modern twist by executive chef, Andreas Engberg, (from La Petite Maison) expertly curated music creates the most chic, cool vibe for any type of outing.

What's incredible about the newly refurbished KOKO is the sheer breadth of things to do there, there's House of KOKO - a sprawling private members club spanning private dining rooms, a luxe rooftop, and hidden cocktail bar as well as a number of performance spaces for artists to perform. Then there's Cafe KOKO, open to the public for intimate live performances and delicious food. And for even more culture? The KOKO Gallery, which houses contemporary art collections, and music moments that can be live-streamed. From stunning interior design to authentically revived architecture, KOKO is beloved by artists, who can benefit from the venue’s cutting-edge audio, ultra-high-quality streaming facilities, and top-tier creative specs spanning recording, podcasts, installations, and metaverse crossovers!

It's no wonder Stormzy recently had his birthday at the Cafe KOKO, we'd be there every night mingling with London's coolest crowd if we could.

Another luxury option for anyone hoping to impress their date, Nobu London is the perfect blend of indulgent food and delightful vibes - especially if you're hoping to find a sweet summer date spot. On a budget? You're in luck. Nobu’s four-course Summer Lunch Menu is bursting with flavoursome dishes for just £50 per person. 

Famed chef Nobu Matsuhisa will induct you with one of his most celebrated starters, Yellowtail Jalapeño – delicate slices of yellowtail sashimi enlivened with yuzu soy sauce, garlic purée and thinly sliced jalapeño. Next up is Wasabi Caesar Salad Grilled Shrimp which combines creamy Caesar salad dressing with a hint of wasabi, tossed with greens, tofu croutons, Parmesan and shaved summer truffle, and topped with juicy grilled shrimp. Choose between the land and the sea with either Beef tenderloin or Seafood (shrimp, scallop, tuna, yellowtail and salmon) Toban Yaki. Roasted with sake and yuzu soy sauce and brought to the table in a sizzling traditional Japanese ceramic dish containing asparagus, enoki and shiitake mushrooms. 

Finish with a Whisky Cappuccino of rich coffee brulée layered with cocoa crunch, iced milk and cream, and whisky foam, or cool off as the mercury rises with a selection of Mochi Ice Cream. Could you ask for a better selection of courses? For those after a long-established Nobu experience, you can also add a Sushi Platter for £22.

We found Nobu London to be one of the best restaurants in London. From incredible food to stellar service, it should be up there as your date night regular!

If you or your date love live music and are looking for a more casual place to wine and dine, The Jazz Cafe is where it's at for a date to remember. Situated on the first floor, the restaurant is the perfect vantage point to enjoy a show, while sampling the succinct, approachable menu and delectable cocktails. Great portion sizes, friendly staff and excellent vibes, you and your date will be dancing the night away in no time.

With everything from up-and-coming artists to classic jazz and disco nights, check the 'what's on' page to select your night and book a table.

 For a more luxurious date night option, the globally renowned Hakkasan makes for an unforgettable experience. The sultry atmosphere gives an air of privacy even on the busiest of evenings (and with a Michelin star at both London locations - Mayfair and Hanway Place – there’s rarely a quiet night at Hakkasan). A perfect atmosphere for a romantic occasion, or even a first date if you really want to impress.

The menu is a modern interpretation of authentic Cantonese cuisine, using the finest ingredients and expert traditional techniques to create timeless yet innovative signature dishes such as the Grilled Chilean Sea Bass and Crispy Duck Salad. My favourite was the Wagyu beef Shanghai dumplings and Hakka noodles – not to be missed.

The cocktails are just as delectable, from Lychee Martini’s to their signature The Hakka and in exciting news, the signature cocktail menu is also available completely alcohol-free! Introduced by new Head of Bar for Tao Group Hospitality Wendy Hopkins, each cocktail on the signature list has a zero-proof version virtually indistinguishable from the original. 

Beyond the faultless food and drink offerings, it’s the world-class service that Hakkasan is known for. Attentive, efficient and warm service staff make for a relaxing dining experience. It’s no wonder Hakkasan is a celebrity hot spot, with the likes of Keanu Reeves, Fredo and Naomi Campbell dining there regularly.

Authentic Italian meets fine dining at this elegant Mayfair spot nestled inside the cobbled streets of Avery Row. The creative menu, curated by Chef AJ McCloud, offers luxurious delights from braised meatballs to grilled branzino to pane al tartufo - as well as a selection of pasta made fresh in-house daily. The flavours are adventurous and bold, made from high-quality, sustainable, and organic ingredients - complemented by a truly unique cocktail menu that will keep you coming back for more (our favourite is the Campania). Make sure to try the crispy baby potatoes as a side, the herb butter melting into Parmigiano to make the perfect mouthful of baked goodness!

If you simply fancy a drink, this chic location is perfect for after-work drinks round the bar, a relaxed yet luxurious environment to unwind after a long week.

This Portuguese gem has a brand new location nestled in Soho. The cult piri-piri chicken favourite is situated at 31-33 Heddon Street, spanning two floors with a cosy, vibrant dining room, street-level terrace and cool drinks bar (The Green Room) alongside two private dining rooms.

The service is outstanding, but the food is even better. Their unimitable signature frango piri-piri chicken is a must, served alongside a selection of Portuguese sharing plates. Our favourites? The Iberico Pork Croquettes, kale and mushroom Salgadinhos and the Montanheira Salad. You cannot miss out on their dessert menu either, the Pastel de Nata's are the best in London - unsurprising for a Portuguese staple. Sharing plates, sangria and sublime service, what more could you ask for?

If you're looking for 'special' SUSHISAMBA fits the brief. The gorgeous interiors at the Covent Garden branch of the famously cool restaurant are only matched by the views by the windows on the first floor or the outside terrace across Covent Garden's main plaza. Or (when the weather warms up) opt for one of their outdoor tables to truly enjoy the hustle-bustle atmosphere of a busy London summer evening. Don't waste conversation or flirting time perusing the menu for hours - we sampled the new Taste of Samba menu which was an incredible treat and perfectly pitched tour through the taste of SUSHISAMBA. Maybe do spend some time perusing the cocktail menu though. The fantastically unique menu deserves to be sampled... perhaps you could share a few? When it comes to the food though - especially the crispy lobster taquitos - we might not have been as up for sharing our portion. Luckily there's plenty of food to go around so it shouldn't spark an argument...

Sachi has just launched its new autumn menu - and it's sensational. Seriously, it's quite possibly some of the best sushi we've ever eaten. Their sweet miso aubergine is comforting yet light and the wagyu tuna is so delicious you'll want to order it twice. Basically, expect a total celebration of Japanese culture in a relaxed and low-lit dining room you'll want to spend all evening in.

Positioned in the heart of Victoria, TOZI is a Venetian-inspired Italian restaurant serving cicchetti-style plates including stunning tuna tartare and buffalo ricotta ravioli with black truffle. Their waiters are passionate about the food and knowledgeable about their vast wine selection. The atmosphere in the restaurant is chic without being frosty and sociable without being over-attentive. Head here for a relaxed and delicious dinner.

Nestled in a cobbled corner of Soho, newly launched Bantof is a hidden gem of delectable drinking and dining. London’s youngest Michelin chef, Asimakis Chaniotis, curated the menu that features spinach and lemon risotto with Mediterranean herbs; rainbow mini burgers; sea bream tartare with avocado, smoked almonds, and yuzu dressing; black truffle pizza and many more sweet and savoury delights.

But the luxury doesn’t end there, with an innovative cocktail menu created by SuperNacular, who, headed up by Cyan Wong, curated an exciting mix of new and classic cocktails with a twist – our favourites include their Fair Mary, Coffee House cocktail and Pina Quintas. When the sun sets on a Friday or Saturday evening, the vibe turns particularly chic with a roster of DJs spinning you into the night and small plates on offer

The most exciting part about Bantof is that from 2023, it will encompass a member’s club without membership fees – that means all-day dining, private meeting and workspaces, a regular roster of members events and much more. With the space designed by Camille Saad from ALN.CMY Architects, the design is focused on creating a social space that celebrates the eclectic experience of Soho – supporting new and uprising artists with the unique opportunity to exhibit and sell work (free of charge for three months at a time on a rotating basis), but you can check out more about that here.

All in all, Bantof is a must-visit.

For a truly bespoke dining experience in the heart of Mayfair, look no further than Amethyst by ex-Xier star chef Carlo Scotto. In an inconspicuous space on Sackville Street, the clouded windows give no indication to what’s inside. So, it’s a remarkable sight when you walk in to see a 10-metre long, jagged chef’s table shot through with real amethyst & quartz stone.

Carlo’s expertise takes guests on a gastronomic journey via his unique tasting menus. The menu is influenced by the simplicity and elegance of Nordic and Japanese cuisine, with French and Arabic influences. Each dish is well thought out and flavoursome and was a dining experience we will never forget.

We started our evening at Beaverbrook Town House with two perfect espresso martinis at Frank's Bar. After soaking up the relaxed and sociable atmosphere we moved through to the adjoining Fuji Grill where we ate some of the best sushi we've had in London. From properly spicy tuna rolls to daring bream covered in Kentish ants for citrus flavour - this is a must-visit for any sushi lovers bored of the same old California rolls.

STK Steakhouse has always been a staple in elevated dining and its brand new opening in Stratford, East London is no different. The new venue is located in the penthouse of The Gantry London Hotel, offering magnificent views of the city below. Feast on reimagined classic American cuisine, world-famous cocktails and live music spun by renowned DJs.

Bun House, which offers Cantonese steamed bun heaven in London's Chinatown, has welcomed award-winning chef Joo Won for a pop-up running until October 4. Joo is serving a menu of South Korean and European-inspired sharing dishes, including his take on an Italian classic, a kimchi and cheddar risotto topped with poached egg and seaweed crisp (delicious) and his unique JFC - Joo's Fried Chicken – fried chicken paired with gochujang (red chili paste), ginger, honey and apple, topped with creamy cashews and coriander. Finish with a dark chocolate cremeaux with yuza marmalade, hoji tea and toasted grain cream.... and roll home happy. Click here to book.

Little Bat Bar is part of the world-renowned cocktail bar Group Callooh Callay, with a 12-year track record for serving great drinks to amazing people. The Little Bat Bar food menu offers an impressive selection of small plates, with dishes effortlessly fusing cosy Mexican cuisine with East Asian flavour and a whole lotta love. As well as small plates available every day from 5pm to 10pm, the bar also offers a bottomless brunch from 11am to 3pm each Saturday and Sunday, where £30 gets you 90 minutes of bottomless Prosecco or brunch cocktails, when ordered alongside a main brunch dish.

Just around the corner from Carnaby Street, Yeni Soho is the brainchild of Civan Er and Cem, who founded Yeni Lokanta in Istanbul. Its modern take on Turkish food comes on sharing plates, with treats including tempura courgette flowers, stuffed with aged feta and drizzled with honey, chilli, and almonds; aubergine baked with stilton, figs and sherry; and the dainty beef manti dumplings.

In the heart of Mayfair be prepared to be dazzled as you dine. Inca London is the hottest new destination for dinner and a show. Feast on South American-inspired cuisine while performers entertain you with high-energy dance routines and slow ballads. For a unique date night look no further than Inca.

Known for its stunning Shoreditch rooftop, The Boundary Hotel has now opened its latest food hot spot: Boundary. Formerly the Albion Café, the 100-cover restaurant and bar serve modern British fare with a European influence, inspired by Swedish-born Head Chef, Robin Freeman. Flooded by natural light and inside/outside dining on the ground floor, menus include Devon diver scallops in anchovy and parsley butter, short-rib polenta and (obviously) loads of delicious cocktails.

With an open kitchen and warm decor, Kitchen At Holmes instantly makes you feel relaxed in the heart of Marylebone. Expect welcoming staff and dishes packed with flavour - from carefully crafted sharing plates to hearty bowls of pasta. We tried the tuna tartare, grilled octopus and lobster tagliolini and it did not disappoint.

Quite possibly the liveliest sushi restaurant in London, the Chotto Matte menu has an amazing fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. From their Black cod ahi miso to their dragon rolls and tuna tatami, this food is seriously good. Expect DJs and evening entertainment while you eat and sushi rolls finished off at the table with a theatrical blow torch char.

Set within a small and charming 18th Century building just off Green Park, Cyril Lignac’s Bar Des Pres has a Franco-East Asian fusion menu that includes marinated sea bass with yuzu and miso caramelised aubergine as well as classic California rolls and yellowtail sashimi. The upstairs restaurant is relaxed, light and elegant and if you want to continue your evening with some cocktails, head downstairs to their 1950s-inspired lounge for drinks and light bites. Highly recommend.

Open-fire cooking, natural wines, guest DJs spinning vinyl: everything about Caia just screams passion. Situated on Golborne Road in West London, the small plates restaurant simultaneously offers fine dining and a really good party. We opted for a signature MiTo cocktail (sort of like a Negroni) and then experienced the joy of small plates - aka, eating loads of everything. The octopus ragu and purple sprouting broccoli are must-haves. Visit asap.

Think ‘romantic meal in London’ and Padella is a natural choice. This intimate, darkly lit Italian in the heart of Shoreditch gives everything you want from date night. Cosy booths make you feel secluded, but the excitable chatter and bustle of diners around you brings atmosphere. And there’s a lot to be excited about here: the Tagliarini with Dorset crab, chilli and lemon (and lashings of parmesan) in particular, but also the Padella negroni – best negroni we’ve ever tried. The Burrata and Bruschetta also hit the spot. This is fresh but rich and cheesy Italian fare done well. We’ve never had a dish we didn’t love at Padella. So if it’s a lively Italian joint that will transport you to the coast of Amalfi that you’re after this Valentine’s Day, this is the one for date night.

Dishoom, which pays homage to the Irani cafés and the food of all of Bombay, is the restaurant chain famous for its queues. Diners are prepared to wait hours (even in the depths of freezing cold winters) to get a seat at the table at this quirky, fashionable Indian. And for good reason: its delicious dishes and buzzy atmosphere make it the perfect night out. But with the new Canary Wharf opening, queues are far less likely at this enormous, 8,000 sqft site occupying a striking double-height building overlooking the water. Plus, booking is allowed. Phew! Like all Dishoom cafés, Canary Wharf will share a deep love for Bombay. And unlike the Covent Garden or Shoreditch branches, the new Canary Wharf Dishoom has a slightly calmer, more romantic feel to it, whilst still being cosy and lively - perhaps it’s being next to the water, or in the financial district after hours if you go in the evening. For the height of romance order the lobster. The house black daal has depth and the chilli broccoli salad should not be missed. Nor should a couple of delicious Dishoom cocktails.

What better way to celebrate a special occasion than with a trip to Europe’s longest Champagne bar for a masterclass in everyone’s favourite bubbly drink alongside a superb three-course meal? Searcys, London’s restaurateur, events caterer and experts in Champagne, have launched the Searcys Series - an immersive yet informative exploration into the world of Champagne - with a calendar of Champagne masterclasses and ticketed events curated by a team of its culinary specialists.

As if you needed a reason to visit CUT, 45 Park Lane. Well, more than ever, this is it. For the first time ever, executive chef Elliott Grover at CUT will be catering for the Oscars in March, alongside celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck. This will also be the first time in ten years that a British chef has cooked at the Hollywood event. So to celebrate, Elliott has created the ultimate British menu fit for A-Listers at CUT, which will include chicken pot pie, fish and chips, trifle and a chocolate cake. The Chicken Pot Pie will also be available as a main dish at CUT. Known as one of the best steak restaurants in London, this new menu shakes things up to mark the glitzy event. And what better way than with a pie adorned with truffle shavings and a trifle so mouthwatering you’ll want seconds and thirds? This is food fit to pair with a star-studded occasion alright.

Maybe it’s the dim lighting, the intimate seating arrangement or the fact that sushi is a pretty sexy meal (hello Samantha in the Sex and the City movie laying it over her naked body) that makes Sticks ‘n’ Sushi the perfect spot for date night. As for the sticks, no slurping and easy to eat off seductively? Yes, please. If, like us, you feel everything on the menu looks too good and you can’t possibly choose, opt for one of the boards which offer a very generous mix of all the biggest hits: Wagyu tartare with shiso, spring onion & kizami wasabi on toasted bread and maguro tataki? Say no more. You can go as light or as heavy as you like, from delicate hotate ceviche scallops with lime, chilli, coriander, red onion, celery & tiger’s milk, to the rich and succulent fried cauliflower served with black truffle goma. Yum.

Steak and fine wine. It doesn’t get much better than that for date night. But knowing which restaurant to trust when it comes to sourcing the finest quality cuts of meat can be hard. Look no further than Heliot Steak House, in the heart of bustling Soho. A stone’s throw from Leicester Square and Oxford Street stations it hits the bullseye for taste, quality, atmosphere and location. With its globally sourced USDA prime steaks and an extensive wine list with over 120 options, you’re in safe hands. Executive Chef and renowned Meatologist Ioannis Grammenos travels regularly to personally source and approve the cuts of meat before serving on his menu. He visits each individual farm to evaluate both the producers and the quality of meat.

To start, guests can choose from a range of dishes inspired by the Greek heritage of Grammenos, including the likes of the famed Grilled Octopus with Roast Baby Potatoes & Tarama. There are also exquisite oysters. If you can’t pick a cut of meat for your main course and want to try everything, opt for the tasting board for Argentinian Rib Eye, USDR Sirloin and English Hereford Fillet. Or go all out and treat yourself to the Japanese Wagyu Sirloin. Heliot Steak House is special occasion territory. You could even squeeze in a meal before a Magic Mike performance, which is conveniently in the same building - the Hippodrome Casino. If it’s a buzzy restaurant with a menu to die you’re after this is a date night where you can easily impress.

Combining incredible views across London - we're talking The Shard, The Gherkin and 110 Bishopsgate to name just a few, so see if you can time your meal to that evening's sunset - with fine dining, you'll have the best time if you choose Bokan 37 in Canary Wharf for date night.

To start, we'd recommend the honeymoon melon gazpacho (which can be adapted for vegan and vegetarian guests), followed by the courgette risotto. And to finish - as well as some dessert of course - why not try a unique crafted cocktail that pays homage to the rich history of Canary Wharf, with tipples inspired by the West India Docks, East India Docks and Royal Docks.

Come for the views overlooking the Thames’ Albert Embankment, right opposite the Tate Britain, and stay for the cosy, inviting atmosphere and sensational food. The Pan Asian menu at Chino Latino has all the biggest hitters: sushi, seafood and indulgent meat or vegetarian dishes, including bau buns, Wagyu beef cooked on a hot plate in front of you and Moving Mountains vegan burgers. This is ‘celebrating a very special occasion' territory. There’s no requirement to, but if you dress for dinner you won’t be out of place. The restaurant puts on brilliant entertainment - when we were there a soulful singer with contagious energy performed a collection of feel-good hits and everyone joining in before they'd even reached their main courses. It was the perfect touch to complement the relaxed but fun and sophisticated atmosphere and delicious cuisine you'll definitely be returning for.

Located near Shoreditch - essentially just minutes away from Old Street Station - if you fancy doing sharing plates, Lilienblum should be your top pick for a meal out on date night. Obviously the larger dishes are great as well, but the sheer variety and colour in the smaller dishes means you'll be able to try a little bit of everything and still have room for dessert! Not sure what to order? We'd recommend the caramelised onion tart with anchovies (which can be removed for the vegetarians amongst us) and the salt baked beetroot with clotted cream and orange vinaigrette.

Oh, and did we mention that there's even a small courtyard (aptly branded the rosé terrace) should the sunshine actually appear at any point this summer. But then again, if it doesn't you've got the perfect excuse to cosy up to your date.

If you’re ever wandering around Leicester Square after a show or looking for a quick bite to eat, Heliot's Steak House's The Balcony is a must. Located in the triple award-winning casino the Hippodrome, the bar boasts a succulent menu filled with flavoursome oysters, grilled octopus and mussels with Thai Green curry. And if seafood isn’t your vibe, don’t stress, as The Balcony operates a rotating menu and with autumn almost in full swing you never know what they’ll bring out next.

There’s fine dining, and then there’s Humo. And not in the white tablecloth, folded napkin sense. Humo is fine dining because it’s a place for people who love and appreciate interesting, inventive, delicious food. The reason every morsel tastes so good? They specialise in ‘Fire dining’ - with no electricity or gas utilised as fuel. Food is grilled over different species of wood with the highest quality of seasonal British produce combined with influences from Japan. You won’t realise how much you need this in your life until you sit down at Humo’s elegant open-air bar, as you watch talented chefs cook up one of the best meals of your year. The dark, smokey ambience and dramatic flames whooshing from the grills make it a very romantic spot for date night. Trust the set menus and pour another glass of champagne. Head downstairs to experience Abajo - HUMO's exclusive 10-seat chef's table, with a weekly changing menu from Head Chef Giacomo Tranquill.

After years of gimmicky restaurants it’s hard to achieve the ‘wow’ factor anymore, especially in east London’s trendy Dalston. But La Bibliothèque, a relatively new opening on Kingsland Road, has it all: a genuinely unique menú that’s delicious in a setting that’s cool and quirky without trying hard. The seasonal menu with Mediterranean and Japanese influences doesn’t seem particularly different at first. For example, the likes of monkfish or fillet beef feature. But when it arrives I quickly realise it’s experimental and exciting. The flavours and the fusion of ingredients were unlike anything I’d tasted before. Created by Head Chef, James Mayle (Simon Rogan’s Fera at Claridge’s, The Dairy in Clapham, Relae in Copenhagen, The Dysart in Petersham and Asia’s 50 Best, Le Du in Thailand), each dish is served with a touch of theatre from the open kitchen.  Expect starters such as kombu braised lamb shoulder with whipped onion soubise and fermented negi onion and mains that include the likes of steamed turbot with a king prawn farci, sauce bouillabaisse and soft herbs. And if you think that sounds good, you should try the cocktails. They are something to marvel at. To top it off and make a proper occasion out of the experience you can stay in one of the three, chic rooms and suites also at La Bibliothèque, from £200 a night.

For a taste of the Italian coast right on your doorstep, look no further than Circolo Popolare, a sunny Sicilian trattoria situated in the heart of Fitzrovia. Part of the Big Mamma group, which has fast established a reputation for serving some of the most delicious, authentic Italian food in London, Circolo Popolare has earned a legion of followers and it’s not hard to see why. Known for its stunning decor, the walls are lined with bottles, artwork and lights, while the ceiling is draped in decadent foliage for a homely, al Fresco feel. The waiters  are upbeat, lively and passionate about Italian food, and the buzzy atmosphere makes it perfect for a midweek date night.  When it comes to the food, more is definitely more. Firm menu favourites include La Gran Carbonara served in a pecorino wheel, creamy burrata, fresh Neapolitan pizzas and the indulgent zingy lemon pie (XXL size). For us, the standout was the ‘Falling In Love with Choux’, an indulgent Valentine’s Day twist on their much-loved profiterole - a giant choux bun, filled with homemade fior di latte gelato and topped with raspberry jam, pink praline, and plenty of chocolate sauce. It's a chocolate-lover's dream. Whether you’re looking for a casual weekday supper or an all out celebration, you are guaranteed a good time at Circolo Popolare.

There’s plenty of pizza spots to choose from in London but, to put it simply, some are more memorable than others. Alley Cats Pizza is one of those. Situated under a green awning just off the bustling Marylebone High Street, Alley Cats serves delicious 14” New York style pizzas that attract queues of customers outside, come rain or shine. Inside, the buzzy atmosphere is infectious. The décor epitomises the aesthetic of a New York pizza joint – there are gingham tablecloths, an open kitchen and episodes of The Sopranos projected onto the walls. When it comes to the food, there are seven styles of pizza on the menu. One standout pizza is a take on the classic penne alla vodka, an indulgent choice that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Alongside sausage and tuna pizzas, there is plenty on offer for vegetarians here too, including a vegan nduja pizza with crispy potatoes. Starters include crispy cheese and garlic bites or melt in the mouth meatballs and, if you have room, there is Tiramisu on offer for dessert. A relaxed, buzzy restaurant that doesn’t compromise on taste, this is the perfect mid-week spot to satisfy your pizza cravings. Plus, pizza on a first date? We can't think of a better ice-breaker.

To introduce a vegan-sceptical date to delicious plant-based eating, there's no better place than Mildred's, now with its latest branch in Victoria. For summer 2024, there are date-ready sharing specials based on the vibrant cuisine of the northern Indian Ocean including Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia and Indonesia. With a blend of sweet, sour and hot, the highlights include ‘Bay of Bengal Thali’ (£19.50), a colourful platter of spiced fried cauliflower and new potato in a creamy caramelised onion sauce served with two tangy sambals, a fresh heirloom tomato cucumber salad and flaky paratha bread, and the ‘Pineapple Som Gaeng’ (£16.50): Thai tamarind peanut curry with spicy pineapple lime leaf sambal, crispy fried shallots and rice noodles. The vibe is lowkey and welcoming, with budget-friendly prices. To take it up a notch, try the cocktail menu, which also takes inspiration from plants: we'd recommend the rose lychee martini (£12) or grapefruit hibiscus paloma (£12.50).

For a taste of France a little closer to home, look no further than Marceline, one of Canary Wharf’s hottest new openings. Inspired by the brasseries of Paris and playful Grand Cafes of New York, Marceline offers an indulgent menu and extensive wine list in a warm, welcoming environment. The service is brilliant and there’s impeccable attention to detail, from sculptural light fixtures to shiny brass mirrors. Open from morning to late, you can drop by Marceline for relaxing breakfasts, long lunches, dinner and late-night aperitifs – perfect for those dates that go on long into the night. 

When it comes to food, the theme is ‘classics with a twist.’ Highlights from the dinner menu include warm fresh bread, succulent steak tartare with hazelnuts, watercress, mint, and artichoke chips, warm cheese soufflé with gruyère cream and truffle and wild mushroom vol-au-vent. Of course, no date night would be complete without desert, and guests can choose from an indulgent selection including apple tarte fine, rose water madeleines, or crème caramel. To up the romance factor, dine on the al-fresco terrace as the sun goes down, for a beautiful view of the water.

When thinking about where next to book for a London date night, it's easy to forget about the city's impressive hotel offerings. Fitz's Brasserie in the Kimpton Fitzroy Hotel in Russell Square is a strong reason not to. It's a contemporary restaurant with a decadent feel, serving dishes with global influences. Expect to find market fish, Greek-inspired lamb, mushroom and truffle risotto and several vegan and gluten free options on the winter menu. You could even order multiple starters (of which there are many) if you and your date prefer to share.

The restaurant itself is primed for special occasions, which is why it was unsurprising that our visit overlapped with several birthday celebrations. As is the service – if the waiters aren't wheeling out a trolley of Prosecco as you take your seats on date night then where have you been going? Saving the best for last, an evening at Fitz's can't be spent without cocktails (with mocktails readily available for those who don't drink too). They are slightly on the expensive side and the brasserie house cocktails range from £16-18, but they are worth it.

Nestled on the edge of Russell Square, if you're looking for somewhere quieter and more memorable than the bars of nearby Soho, then you can pay the hotel bar a visit before or after dinner too.

Eating pizza in London can feel synonymous with poorly lit, marble tabled chain restaurants. Dinner For One Hundred, which started as a lockdown endeavour in one of the co-founder's front gardens, is the antithesis of that – even if they now operate in three different locations. Bar D4100 is their first brick and mortar restaurant and it's every bit as charming as an Italian restaurant that's been around for 50 years. The pizza is delicious too, with all dietary requirements (yes, vegans) duly catered for. Impress your date by booking a candle lit table off the beaten track in Nunhead and remember to order the MacGyver.

And if the date goes horribly wrong (or they fashion their crusts into a little pile on the side of their plate), Jake and Jacob, the owners of D4100, are well known matchmakers. Visit their website to book onto their next singles night.