The 15 Best Trendy Restaurants in London for Birthdays

Celebrating your big birthday in London? We’ve got 13 restaurants for you to blow your candles out in—all available for last-minute bookings.

Updated on:
August 26, 2024
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The 15 Best Trendy Restaurants in London for Birthdays

When it's time to blow out those candles and make some unforgettable memories, we can’t blame you for wanting the perfect spot to celebrate your birthday in style. Luckily for you, London's full of trendy—and totally instagrammable—restaurants for you to check out.

We've rounded up the 15 absolute best places to throw your birthday bash in the city—all of which are available on Ambl for last-minute reservations. Landing a last-minute booking at London’s best restaurants for your birthday dinner just got a whole lot easier.

💡 Ready to make last-minute bookings across restaurants, bars, and pubs in London? Download Ambl and make your first booking today.

1. Aqua Shard

aqua shard

🥙 Modern European  | 💲 £100 | ⭐ 4.2 / 5 

If you want an amazing view for your London birthday, then there’s no place better than the Aqua Shard. This relaxed, yet classy establishment is the perfect vibe for celebrations with their contemporary British food and hand-crafted cocktails. Plus, it’s on the highest building in London!

⏰ Opening hours

Saturday and Sunday: 10:30 - 22:30 / Monday - Friday: 12:00 - 22:00 

🎂Why it's perfect for birthday

 Aqua Shard is perfect for birthdays because it gives you amazing views of London’s skyline on your big day.

Address

🗺️ 📍Level 31, The Shard, 31 St Thomas St, London SE1 9RY

⭐Rating: 4.2 / 5 “I had an amazing time celebrating my partner’s birthday and our anniversary! Doing the Peter Pan afternoon tea, the food was amazing!” 

2. Caia

caia

 🥙 Mediterranean  |  💲£50 | ⭐ 4.5 / 5  

Caia is the place to go when you want to enjoy small plates, fine wines, and the best selection of vintage music London has to offer. With its semi-private wine cellar for groups of eight people, it's a place where both foodies and music lovers can celebrate in style.

⏰ Opening hours

Tuesday and Wednesday: 18:00 - 00:00 / Thursday: 12:00 - 00:00 / Saturday: 12:00 - 00:00 / Sunday: 09:00 - 01:00

Address

🗺️📍46 Golborne Rd, London W10 5PR 

⭐Rating: 4.5 “We had an incredible dining experience and quirky cocktails! Make sure you sit by the counter to see the chefs do their thing while getting first-hand explanations of all the delicious dishes.”       

Prefer Chelsea? No worry, check out our best selection for Chelsea restaurants

3. OXO Tower Restaurant

oxo restaurant

🥙  International  | 💲 £80 | ⭐ 4.4 / 5 

Besides making its mouthwatering meals from locally sourced ingredients, the OXO is famous for giving its guests a good time. It offers live music, a view of St. Paul’s and Thames, and enough space for celebrations big and small. As for the delicious menu, it focuses on classic dishes from all around the world.

⏰ Opening hours

 Sunday - Friday: 12:00 - 21:30 / Saturday: 12:00 - 22:00

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

The OXO is perfect for birthdays because it offers everything a fun celebration needs, such as live entertainment, a good view, and amazing food.

Address

🗺️📍 Barge House St, London SE1 9PH

Prefer indian food? Don't worry, here we have the best inidan restaurants in London

4. Manzi’s

Manzi’s

🥙Seafood  | 💲£30| ⭐ 4.3 / 5  


Manzi is your Instagrammable birthday restaurant go-to. Here, you can indulge in flamboyant seafood dishes such as lobster linguine, roast salmon, and grilled king prawns. Their chic interior is just as glamorous. Set across two floors, it features playful decor with a large bar and lounge area.

 ⏰ Opening hours

Tuesday: 12:30 - 21:30 / Wednesday - Saturday: 12:00 -23:00

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

 We booked this place for birthday dinner, and the whole experience was nothing short of amazing. The ambience is classy and very pleasing to the eyes. The food was just as delicious and enjoyable.”

Address


🗺️📍1-8 Bateman's Buildings, London W1D 3EN

⭐Rating: 4.3 / 5   

5. The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan

The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan

🥙 Contemporary British    | 💲 £100   | ⭐ 4.1 / 5 

Celebrate your birthday at the National Portrait Gallery, and come by the Portrait Restaurant for a fab birthday dinner. This classy, birthday go-to specialises in serving up contemporary spins on British classics—especially seafood classics. Plus, it has amazing views of Trafalgar Square.

⏰ Opening hours

 Sunday - Tuesday: 12:00 - 17:30 / Wednesday - Saturday: 12:00 - 22:30

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

The Portrait is perfect for birthdays because it is located right inside the National Portrait Gallery, making it a delicious stop on your birthday celebration activity list. 

Address

🗺️📍2 St. Martin's Pl, London WC2H 0HE

⭐Rating: 4.1 / 5 “I had an amazing dinner here while out with a friend. The Service at The Portrait Restaurant was just perfect, and we had the wine paired with our food that made the dinner even more special.”

Prefer a perfect view? Check out our best selection for restaurant with a view

6. Hutong

Hutong

🥙 Chinese  | 💲 £100 | ⭐4.1 / 5

Step into the Shard and experience the flavours of Northern China for your birthday. The Hutong takes you on a culinary journey with some of the best Asian meals and hand-crafted cocktails right from the heart of London. Besides dishes from expert cooks, this fine-dining eatery is famous for its Instagrammable interior, making you feel like you’ve journeyed across the globe for your big day.

⏰ Opening hours: 

Sunday 11:00 - 01:00 / Monday - Wednesday: 11:30 - 00:00 / Thursday: 11:30 - 01:00 / Friday and Saturday: 11:00 - 01:00

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

Hutong’s unique vibe and interior make it amazing for unforgettable, instagrammable birthday celebrations.

Address

🗺️ 📍lvl 33, 31 St Thomas St, London SE1 9RY


⭐Rating: 4.1 / 5 “ We enjoyed a lovely meal with my family. The views over London were spectacular, as was the food. Our server was attentive and knowledgeable, making recommendations for us for what to order. We left feeling extremely satisfied”

Looking for a fancy restaurant? Check our selection for the best fancy restaurants

7. Ruya

ruya

🥙 Turkish  | 💲£70  | ⭐ 4.2 / 5 

Steeped in a rich and vibrant history, Ruya offers contemporary Anatolian-inspired dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Bold, bright, and beautiful, guests can indulge in a seasonal menu and Mekan bar offering a blend of spirits, cocktails, wine, and famous Turkish delicacies

⏰ Opening hours

 Sunday - Wednesday 12:30 - 00:00 / Thursday - Saturday: 12:30 - 01:00

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

Ruya is the perfect place for birthdays for those who love Anatolian cuisine.



Address

🗺️📍30 Upper Grosvenor St, London W1K 7PH 

⭐Rating:  4.2 / 5 “Ruya London is beautifully designed and surprises with a very cosy yet stylish atmosphere. The mocktails we drank are world-class. The dishes were all cooked to perfection and flavoured delicately. We truly enjoyed our dinner and the fantastic service. We thank them for arranging a nice birthday treat for my sister.”    

Prefer Mayfair? No worry, check out our best selection for Mayfair restaurants

8. The Wolseley City

The Wolseley City

🥙 Modern European  | 💲£30  | ⭐ 4.3 / 5 

With its airy space, vaulted ceilings, and intricate ironwork, The Wolseley City restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate any occasion—especially birthdays. This fine-dining restaurant takes its menu inspiration from meals all over Europe. From fish pies to burgers and onion soups, it’s a place where you can always try something new and expand your horizons.

⏰ Opening hours

Sunday: 11:00 - 17:00 / Monday - Friday: 07:00 - 23:00 / Saturday: 08:00 - 23:00                                                                                                                               

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

 The Wolseley City is perfect for birthdays because of its private dining options accommodating up to 24 guests.


Address

🗺️📍68 King William St, London EC4N 7HR

⭐Rating: 4.3 / 5 “This was a beautiful restaurant! The service was spectacular and the food was really good with a great variety of dishes. The space is also perfectly designed with a decadent feel of the 1920s.”       

9. TATTU London

TATTU London

🥙 Contemporary Chinese cuisine | 💲£79-£150  | ⭐4.7/5

Cantonese classics meet contemporary elegance at TATTU London. This chic and spacious restaurant is more than just a dining destination; it's a culinary experience that transcends tradition. With a selection of food and drink that reimagines Cantonese flavours and an ambience that's as refined as it is inviting, TATTU London is the perfect restaurant for birthdays.

⏰ Opening hours

 Monday: 12:00 - 00:00 / Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 - 01:00

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

 TATTU has regular DJ nights and live entertainment. Plus you can hire one of their exclusive rooms for an unforgettable night.

Address

🗺️📍The Now Building Rooftop, Outernet, Denmark Street, WC2H 0LA

⭐Rating: 4.7/5 “We came here recently for a birthday meal at lunchtime, where it was much quieter than other places we have visited. This is now a favourite place of mine. The food is to die for and excellently presented.”

Prefer fancy restaurants? Don't worry check our Best Fancy Restaurants

10. Casa do Frango

Casa do Frango

🥙 Mediterranean | 💲 £20-£40 | ⭐ 4.4 / 5

Ready to celebrate in style with vibrant dishes, chill vibes, and refreshing cocktails to match? Head over to the Casa do Frango for your big day. They have plenty of small plates, drinks, and main courses for every taste pallet. Inspired by the culinary acne of Portugal, you can't go wrong with dishes like Piri Piri Garlic Prawns or Charred Cauliflower.

⏰ Opening hours

: Sunday: 12:00 -22:00 / Monday - Wednesday: 12:00 - 22:00  / Thursday - Saturday: 12:00 - 23:00

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

Casa do Frango is perfect for birthdays because of its relaxed vibe and unique menu options.


Address

🗺️📍2 Southwark St, London SE1 1TU

⭐ 4.4 / 5   “Casa do Franco offers a delightful dining experience with its delicious, juicy, and flavorful dishes. The chicken is exceptionally well-prepared, boasting a perfect blend of spices that enhances its natural taste. The cauliflower is a surprising star, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour, making it a standout vegetarian option.”      

11. Cigalon

cigalon

Cigalon is a contemporary French restaurant perfect for those classy birthday dinners with your friends and family. Originally an auction house, the interior boasts a double-height and ceiling glassed main dining room. Those with smaller, closer circles can also opt for their private dining room, which can seat up to 8 guests. The food? It’s just as amazing with dishes like Baked Aubergine and Grilled Pork Loin.

⏰ Opening hours

Tuesday - Friday: 12:00 - 21:00

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

The Cigalon is your go-to birthday dinner place for French-style cuisine

Address


🗺️📍115 Chancery Ln, London WC2A 1PP


⭐Rating: 4.5 / 5  “I can't find the best adjectives to say how wonderful this place is. The food is delicious and I can't forget to mention the service team in perfect harmony with the super refined atmosphere”

Looking restaurants in Soho? Check our best selection for you!

12. Umu restaurant

Umu restaurant

Perched high above Regent Street, Aqua Nueva provides breathtaking views that stretch over the London skyline. This is more than just a restaurant–it's an elevated dining experience that takes your special day to new heights. Expect a menu full of top notch dishes, including sumptuous small plates expertly designed for sharing. As birthday restaurants go, Aqua Nueva is pretty near perfect.

⏰ Opening hours

Tuesday - Saturday:12:00 - 22:00

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

Umu is the best restaurant option when you’re craving authentic Japanese sushi for your big day.

Address

🗺️📍14-16 Bruton Pl, London W1J 6LX           

⭐Rating: 4.2 “ Our dinner at the restaurant was amazing! We opted for the set menu and had champagne paired with it. The food was delicious and beautifully presented, with a great variety of flavours and textures.

13. Club Gascon

Club Gascon

🥙 French  | 💲 £40  | ⭐ 4.5 / 5

Gascon is a Michelin-star restaurant featuring a seasonal menu led by award-winning chef Pascal Aussignac. Inspired by the cuisine of Southwest France, Gascon showcases traditional flavours in new and exciting styles. The decor? Classy and sophisticated, making it a great place for a relaxing birthday dinner.

⏰ Opening hours

 Tuesday: 18:00 - 21:30 / Wednesday - Friday: 12:00 - 21:30 

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

Gascon is perfect for birthdays because of its outstanding decor, high-quality dishes, and Michelin-star status

Address


🗺️📍57 W Smithfield, London EC1A 9DS

⭐ Rating: 4.5 / 5 “Club Gascon is the perfect mix of chic, modern, and fun! It delivers a Michelin-starred experience that goes above and beyond. The food is amazing, with top-notch ingredients, perfect flavours, and flawless technique, all showcasing chef Pascal Aussignac's unique flair.”

14. Arros QD

arros qd

🥙 Spanish  | 💲£60  | ⭐ 4.4 / 5                                                                          

Arros QD is led by an expert team of chefs specialising in serving some of the best wood-fired paellas in the UK. Arro’s interior is just as majestic as its food. It features a six-foot wood-fire stove, theatrical seating, and a private dining area for private gatherings designed by famous Spanish designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán.

⏰ Opening hours

Sunday 12:30 - 15:30 / Monday - Thursday: 12:00 - 22:30  / Friday and Saturday: 12:00 - 23:00



🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

Arros QD is the perfect place for birthdays because of its private dining area and award-winning paella.

Address

🗺️📍 64 Eastcastle Street, London, W1W 8NQ

 

⭐ Rating: 4.4 / 5“They have great food, class ambience and good service too. We tried a bunch of foods from the fire as well as a couple of paellas - all hit the spot.”

15. Alfi Italian bar and restaurant

Alfi Italian bar and restaurant

🥙 Italian  | 💲 £30 | ⭐4.6/5

What could be better than being transported to Italy for your big day? Alfi is a joyous Mediterranean culinary journey with biodynamic wines, cocktails, and vibrant grill dishes. Nestled in the canopy of Spitalfields, Alfi features a cosy and classic decor making it perfect for small circles and private, Italian dining. 

⏰ Opening hours

Sunday: 11:00 - 17:00 / Monday: 12:00 - 16:00 / Tuesday - Friday: 12:00 - 23:00 / Saturday: 11:00 - 23:00

🎂Why it's perfect for birthdays

Alfi serves mouth-watering Italian classics and has a beautiful terrace overlooking the markets, making it perfect for birthdays.

Address


🗺️📍3 Crispin Pl, London E1 6DW

⭐Rating:  4.6 / 5  “This is such a great addition to Spitalfields! We loved the food, natural wines, friendly service and atmosphere. We had their delicious pizza and prawns!”   

Now that you know the best birthday restaurants, let’s take a look at ways to make it even more special. 

Trendy restaurants in London for birthdays FAQs

How to book a restaurant for a birthday in London? 

To book a restaurant for a birthday meal in London, just download the Ambl app, click on your preferred restaurant or discover something new, and make a reservation in a few taps. Easy peasy.

Can you bring your own cake to a restaurant?

Most restaurants are happy to accommodate birthday cakes, but it's always best to check with them beforehand.

Do restaurants charge extra for birthday celebrations?

While some restaurants may offer special packages for birthdays that include extras, most do not charge extra for regular celebrations.