How to Find the Best Restaurants Near Charing Cross
Introduction
Searching for restaurants near Charing Cross? Well, you are not short of options! Charing Cross is located in central London and is surrounded by various restaurants, cafés and bars. If you’re in the mood for fine dining, casual bites, international flavors or classic British food, you’ll find options a short walk away.
Thanks to its location near Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and Leicester Square, as well as to London’s West End theatres, the area lends itself to pre-theatre dining, romantic dinners for two, business lunches or casual meals with friends.
In this guide, we’ll be going into some of the best restaurants near Charing Cross, from Michelin-starred joints to hidden local gems.
Why Dine Near Charing Cross? – Restaurants near Charing cross
The reason why this area is one of the best places to eat in London:
✔ Central Location – Well-connected by train, bus, and tube, ideal for both locals and tourists.
✔ Varied Food – There are endless choices from traditional British dishes to Italian, French, Asian and Middle Eastern.
✔ Historic and Scenic Views – Continue along classic London architecture, vibrant streets, and charming riverside views.
✔ Child-friendly – For those travelling with children, plenty of kid-friendly restaurants are available.
So now, let’s take a look at the top restaurants in and around Charing Cross that you must experience!
Best Restaurants Around Charing Cross
The Northall – British Fine Dining Done Right
📍 WHERE: The Corinthia Hotel, Whitehall Place, London
⭐ Best For: A touch of British high-end dining – Restaurants near charing cross
The Northall is a great fine dining restaurant near Charing Cross. Set within the 5-star Corinthia Hotel, this sophisticated restaurant focuses on seasonal British fare with a contemporary spin.
Must-Try Dishes:
✅ Crab from Cornwall, avocado and a citrus dressing
✅ Fillet of Scottish beef, with béarnaise sauce
✅ Tart de chocolate y avellana
Its sophisticated atmosphere and impeccable service make it an ideal choice for special occasions, business meetings or date nights.
Barrafina – “Proper” Spanish Tapas
Where: Adelaide Street, London
⭐ Best For: Spanish tapas and a fun atmosphere – restaurants near charing cross
Barrafina is for you if you love authentic Spanish food. This Michelin-starred kitchen serves traditional tapas, including Iberian ham, seafood and seasonal specialties. The open-kitchen concept adds excitement, so guests can watch the chefs at work.
Must-Try Dishes:
✅ Gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns)
✅Octopus with paprika and olive oil
✅ Churros and 黑 chocolate sauce
Don’t Forget: Barrafina does not take reservations, so there may be a bit of a wait; but the food is more than worth it!
Rules — London’s Oldest Restaurant
📍 Location: London Maiden Lane
⭐ Best For: Old-school British food & historic charm – restaurants near charing cross
Rules, which opened in 1798, is London’s oldest restaurant and serves classic British fare in a traditional setting. It is where you’ll find hearty meals, game meat and a historic ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
✅ Rosbif de cerf sauce au vin rouge
✅ Steak and kidney pudding
✅ Sticky toffee pudding
An excellent choice for visitors and history buffs looking to taste London’s fare.
London’s Oldest Wine Bar: Gordon’s Wine Bar
📍 Where: Villiers Street, London
⭐ Best For: Wine aficionados and cheese connoisseurs – restaurants near charing cross
Gordon’s Wine Bar is a hidden gem if you want somewhere a little different and cozier to eat near Charing Cross. London’s oldest wine bar, established in 1890, has a candlelit underground cellar with a fine selection of wines.
Must-Try Pairings:
✅ A glass of Rioja with some aged cheddar
✅ Bordeaux with truffle brie
✅ Smoked salmon pâté with champagne
A wonderful place for an intimate evening or a relaxed catch-up with friends.
Clos Maggiore – The Most Romantic Restaurant In London
📍Location: Covent Garden, London (5 min walk from Charing Cross)
⭐ Best For: Magnificent French fine dining in a gorgeous setting – restaurants near charing cross
Deservedly dubbed the most romantic restaurant in London, Clos Maggiore is perfectly dreamy with fairy-tale florals and candlelit tables throughout. This Michelin-recommended restaurant is a lovely option for an upscale meal close to Charing Cross.
Must-Try Dishes:
✅ Duck breast, slow roasted to perfection with orange sauce
✅ Lobster bisque in cognac cream
✅ Grand Marnier soufflé
Its popularity makes reservations a must.
Flat Iron – Best Value Steakhouse
📍 Where: Henrietta Street, London
⭐ Best For: Steak quality for less – restaurants near charing cross
If you want steak without breaking the bank, head to Flat Iron (yes, that’s the name) near Charing Cross for one of the best budget-friendly steak meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
✅ Peppercorn sauce for flat irons
✅ Wagyu beef burger
✅ Housemade salted caramel ice cream
Perfect for a good meal without the strip price.
Best Restaurants near Charing Cross for Special Diets
🌱V Veggie & Non-Vampire Options:
Mildreds (Soho): A good spot for plant-inspired eats.
The Real Greek: Vegetarian mezze platters with hummus, falafel and grilled halloumi.
🐟 Best Seafood:
Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill: Fresh oysters, grilled fish and seafood platters.
🍣 Best Japanese Cuisine:
SUSHISAMBA: Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian hybrid.
How to Pick the Right Charing Cross Near the Restaurant
With so many restaurants to choose from, here are some quick tips to help you make the call:
✔ For Fine Dining: Clos Maggiore, The Northall
✔ For Casual Meals: Flat Iron, Gordon’s Wine Bar
✔ The Brandes: Barrafina (Spanish), SUSHISAMBA (Japanese-Peruvian)
✔ For Historic Dining: The Rules, Gordon’s Wine Bar
Final Thoughts – restaurants near charing cross
There’s an incomparable range of places to eat for every taste if you’re searching for restaurants near Charing Cross. From Michelin-starred fine dining and historic British establishments to casual steakhouses and cozy wine bars, there’s something for every taste.
So next time you’re in London central head to these top Charing Cross restaurants for an exquisite meal!
