Looking for the perfect spot to celebrate love? Sally Seaton selects 10 of the most romantic restaurants in London to make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable.
Treat yourself and your loved one to some of London’s finest dining spots at these coveted Valentine’s Day restaurants. From ZIMA to Clos Maggiore, there is a cuisine to get all heartbeats racing. Whether it’s the best seafood restaurants in London, the city’s classic steak houses, or vibrant Mexican spots, London’s huge dining scene has a vast selection of memorable date night restaurants.
Explore our guide to the most romantic restaurants London offers for dining with that special someone.
1. Best romantic restaurant for Mexican Food
Casona and Cantina by Santo Remedio, santoremedio.co.uk
Adding a hint of spice to your Valentine’s Day, Casona & Cantina offers authentic Mexican cuisine rooted by the owners, Edson and Natalie Diaz-Fuente’s, heritage and influenced by the grand colonial houses of Mexico City’s neighbourhoods.
This is prominent across the extensive menu as well as the cosy design of the space. Each element tells a story of Mexican culture and tradition, from the handmade tiles imported from Michoacán to the photographs Edson took during his travels.
Ideal for romantic evenings or pre-dinner drinks, enjoy a classic Mexican tequila at the cantina bar, a focal point of the venue, with a wide variety of Mexican alcohol.
Get your taste buds heated with traditional guisados and prawn tacos, as well as regional specialities, including Duck Carnitas and Pork Shoulder Pibil.
You can expect to taste unique flavours at Casona and Cantina, renowned for using ‘Ark of Taste’ products such as blue corn and Pasilla de Oaxaca, which are completely rare and almost extinct – making your Valentine’s meal extra special. If you’re not taking your loved one home for dessert, share a Cinnamon Buñuelos dark chocolate mousse & berry compote.
2. Best for a relaxed romantic brunch
This Is Amber, thisisamber.co.uk
Experience a fusion of Eastern Mediterranean flavours in a sleek London setting at This Is Amber – perfect for a relaxed Valentine’s celebration with laid-back vibes and delicious bites.
This Is Amber is all about sharing the love; their family tradition is to welcome any guest who walks through the door met with table space, food to share and a warm, generous spirit.
Share several small plates together, such as hummus breakfast, challah toast and the Mediterranean’s most renowned dish – shakshuka, perfect for sharing and enjoying the most exotic flavours.
The ambience exudes a calm yet chic vibe, with soft lighting, minimalist decor and stylish touches that create the perfect atmosphere for a romantic brunch.
The ambient setting evokes a sense of intimacy, making it an ideal setting for couples looking to unwind and enjoy each other’s company. With the romantic scents of fresh herbs and spices filling the air, This Is Amber is not just a brunch spot, but an experience that adds a touch of romance to any Valentine’s celebration.
3. Best romantic restaurant for breathtaking views
Gaucho, Tower Bridge, gauchorestaurants.com
Re-opening just in time for Valentine’s 2025 with a revamped design, Gaucho is renowned for its succulent steaks. Set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic landmarks, indulge in breathtaking views of Tower Bridge as you savour quality time with your significant other.
For an extra touch of magic, visit after dark when the bridge lights up, casting a stunning glow over London’s skyline and creating a truly beautiful setting.
The London steak restaurant offers delicious Argentine cuisine, with a Valentine’s special menu for just £55 per person – perfect for sharing. It features a range of indulgent dishes from Black Truffle and Wild Mushroom Fugazzeta to sharing steaks and finishing on a delicious sharing dessert of Strawberry and Raspberry Mille-Feuille.
The menu also includes a bottle of wine topping off your romantic date. For all the dog lovers out there, share the love and treat your furry friend to a fine dining experience at this dog-friendly haven.
4. Best romantic restaurant for an authentic taste of Italy
Da Paolo, dapaolo.co.uk
One of London’s truly authentic Italian restaurants, experience the essence of Italy in the heart of London at Da Paolo. Indulge in classic Italian dishes such as Homemade Ricotta and Spinach Tortellini with Pesto Sauce and Pecorino Cheese or Traditional Lasagne.
Finish your romantic meal with an authentic tiramisu – coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with a whipped egg and mascarpone cream, then dusted with cocoa powder. You also have the option to indulge in a three-course meal for under £50!
The restaurant’s charming, rustic decor – complete with wooden accents and soft lighting – creates the perfect setting for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. With its intimate, relaxed vibe, Da Paolo invites you to unwind and enjoy classic Italian dishes made with love, from hand-crafted pasta to succulent grilled meats.
The rich aromas, the comforting ambience, and the heartfelt dishes make it an ideal spot for couples looking for a memorable evening filled with delicious food and romance.
5. Most romantic bar for pre-dinner or after-dinner drinks
The Bloomsbury Club, thebloomsburyclub.com
The Bloomsbury Club brings a taste of Cuba to London with a three-day Valentine’s celebration filled with romantic Latin music, delicious rum cocktails and plenty of amor. This is the perfect date night for pre-dinner or after-dinner drinks if you’re not quite ready to end your romantic night.
Ideal for a memorable Valentine’s Day experience, the Cuban Nights will see Marcellus & Bossa Swing Band performing live providing the perfect soundtrack to your evening. The Cuban Nights cocktail menu will be available from 13th – 15th February for £17 each.
Enjoy authentic Cuban cocktails, including the Old Cuban, which consists of Ron Santiago de Cuba™ Extra Añejo™ 11 Years Old, champagne, mint and demerara sugar. The decor of this enchanting place seamlessly spreads love in the air, blending vintage glamour with a touch of old-world charm.
Bloomsbury Club features exposed brick, plush velvet seating, and soft lighting, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere. The sophisticated yet cosy atmosphere makes it ideal for couples seeking a refined and enchanting space to enjoy delicious cocktails and cuisine while celebrating love.
6. Best romantic restaurant for something sweet
Haute Dolci, hautedolci.co.uk
This Valentine’s enjoy a Dolci date, the dessert restaurant allows you to enjoy romance, indulgence and unforgettable moments with the launch of their brand new desserts crafted exclusively for the season of love. These limited edition delicacies are available between 12th – 18th February, so make sure to head here for a special sweet treat or indulge in a two-course meal.
Following the viral Dubai chocolate trend, Dolci has created its own unique Valentine’s twist with the Dolci Affaire – a rich chocolate heart filled with luxurious pistachio kuna fa cream cheese, enrobed in silky chocolate, and finished with delicate dried raspberries.
Every bite is a love letter in itself. Dolci has curated Valentine’s packages offering a selection of gourmet delights, desserts and drinks, all wrapped in a romantic setting designed to make your time with your loved one truly magical.
The luxurious dining experience includes a beautifully set table adorned with floral arrangements and candles. You can choose from brunch, dinner or dessert – allowing you to indulge in a sweet Valentine’s experience at any time of the day.
7. Best romantic restaurant for an incredible setting
Clos Maggiore, closmaggiore.co.uk
Renowned for its enchanting interior and fine French cuisine, Clos Maggiore is one of the best spots in London for romance.
The conservatory details a canopy of delicate cherry blossoms and soft, ambient lighting that creates a dreamy, intimate atmosphere inspired by the South of France and Tuscany.
The Covent Garden restaurant is one of London’s most romantic dining experiences, offering a contemporary take on Modern European cuisine. The award-winning menu consists of roast monkfish and slow-cooked Herefordshire beef with delicious sides of truffled mashed potato – all locally sourced.
The blend of beautiful design, attention to detail, and superb cuisine make Clos Maggiore an unforgettable destination for couples looking to celebrate love in an extraordinary way.
8. Best romantic restaurant for bringing a romance story to life
ZIMA, Notting Hill, zima.restaurant
This Valentine’s Day, indulge in a romantic evening at ZIMA’s newly launched Notting Hill venue, where love is in the air from the very start.
Celebrate with a delectable four-course menu, complemented by a glass of champagne, as the doors open on February 14th to offer an intimate and one-of-a-kind experience.
Expanding from its iconic Soho location, ZIMA now graces the charming streets next to the renowned Notting Hill bookshop. What better place to spend Valentine’s Day, immersing yourself in the magic of romance, as if stepping straight into the beloved scene of the classic film Notting Hill?
Enjoy traditional Eastern European and Russian cuisine with a contemporary touch. The set Valentine’s menu includes glazed carrot cake, creamy celeriac soup, followed by a choice of slow-roasted duck or Cornish cod fillet, and ending with a sweet raspberry meringue.
9. Best romantic restaurant for steak lovers
Bricco e Bacco, briccoebacco.co.uk
Bricco e Bacco is perfect for steak lovers, offering a truly exceptional dining experience with premium cuts sourced from around the world, including Japanese Wagyu and Italian Marango.
The signature feature is cooking steaks on a sizzling Himalayan saltstone, allowing guests to sear their own steak to perfection – a unique and interactive experience. The ambience is warm and romantic, with intimate lighting and a cosy atmosphere that makes it a wonderful spot for Valentine’s Day.
The restaurant’s Sicilian heritage adds a flavorful touch to its menu, blending rich, authentic dishes with the highest quality steaks. Whether enjoying a tender Wagyu or a savoury dry-aged cut paired with curated wines, this venue is ideal for couples looking to indulge in fine cuisine while sharing a memorable, intimate evening.
10. Best romantic restaurant for striking interiors
Ave Mario, bigmammagroup.com
One of the Big Mamma Group’s latest arrivals to London, following the success of Gloria and Circolo Popolare, Ave Mario is set within funky decor, taking influence from an idyllic day in Florence.
Covent Garden is the perfect location, bringing flamboyant energy to Ave Mario. Not only is it a romantic spot for Valentine’s Day, but also a feast for the eyes and Instagram feeds.
The striking bold red decor, lush floral arrangements, and retro-inspired touches create a playful yet elegant atmosphere perfect for snapping photos.
Couples will find countless opportunities to capture shots against the vibrant backdrop of the restaurant’s chic interior. The 4kg pecorino wheel is a standout moment, where a decadent pasta dish is served directly from a giant cheese wheel, creating an Instagram-worthy experience.
The lively, colourful setting, paired with delicious, visually appealing dishes, makes Ave Mario a place to indulge in incredible Italian cuisine and a must-visit for those looking to capture the essence of love, fun, and flavour on camera.
A final word on romantic restaurants in London…
London offers a wide variety of romantic dining experiences, making it the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re looking for a cosy Italian escape at Da Paolo, a breathtaking view at Gaucho, or an Instagram-worthy spot at Ave Mario, there’s something to suit every couple’s taste and vibe.
From intimate settings and exceptional cuisine to unforgettable experiences, these 10 romantic restaurants offer the ideal backdrop for love, laughter, and a truly memorable evening. No matter where you choose to dine, each venue promises a magical Valentine’s Day celebration.
