As much as we hate to make assumptions about anyone’s parents, we’re willing to bet that when it comes to going out to dinner, there’s a certain type of place they like. It probably doesn’t involve banging tunes, the food probably isn’t brain-meltingly spicy and the booking policy definitely isn’t ‘walk-ins only’. So, whether they’re visiting for a special occasion or just an overdue catch-up, make a reservation at one of these great London restaurants – as picked by Quandoo – and they’ll definitely appreciate the thought.
Spot something that takes your fancy? All the restaurants listed below are bookable through Quandoo – simply click the booking button and get that res in your dinner diary.
This Michelin-starred French restaurant is a hoof’s throw from Smithfield Market, so it makes sense that the meat dishes (veal sweetbreads, fallow deer) shine especially brightly. The interior is classic with modern touches, and the pure white tablecloths make the perfect blank canvas for beautifully presented dishes.
Don’t miss: The in-house sommelier knows French wine better than most, so be sure to heed his recommendations.
The dining room at the ME London hotel’s flagship restaurant is impeccable – all gold trim, pale woods and talking-point plants. The menu, which cleverly fuses Mediterranean and Japanese cuisines with some great results, is sure to get tongues wagging, too.
Don’t miss: The fusion concept is best witnessed through the selection of nigiri – try the scallop with Spanish sausage. Deliciously confusing.
Dainty pastries, neat little finger sandwiches and bottomless hot drinks – afternoon tea was basically made for making people’s parents feel like royalty. Here, just off Trafalgar Square, it comes with a live piano soundtrack and bespoke bone china.
Don’t miss: Not that you could, but the arrival of the antique champagne trolley is something to behold. A glass of Laurent-Perrier – served in a crystal flute – makeS a decadent treat.
This small and chic ristorante in Kensington is big on freshness and authenticity – right down to the pasta, which is hand-made every day. For secondis, expect the likes of fillet steak with foie gras, rabbit leg with pancetta and turbot with anchovy dressing.
Don’t miss: Request a table in the covered, heated garden when booking. It’s filled with beautiful plants and fragrant citrus fruit trees, lending a dash of authentic Italian romance.
If you’ve old family holidays to Italy to reminisce about, this long-standing, homely spot in the West End is a great place to do so. Just like at that tiny trattoria you visited on a Tuscan hillside together, the portions here are hearty and the welcome as warm as they come.
Don’t miss: If it’s a big anniversary or a birthday that ends in a zero, don’t even hesitate to order the pricey but spectacular selection of mixed seafood.
