Top Historical Restaurants in London

London is known for its rich history and diverse cuisine, making it an ideal destination for food enthusiasts. The city boasts a plethora of restaurants, many of which are steeped in history and tradition. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming tea rooms, London has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore some of the top historical restaurants in London.

1. Rules

Established in 1798, Rules is the oldest restaurant in London. Located in Covent Garden, the restaurant has a rich history, having served celebrities, politicians, and royalty over the years. The menu is traditional British fare, including game dishes, steaks, and classic puddings. The restaurant's interior has retained its 19th-century charm, with dark wood paneling and vintage paintings adorning the walls.

2. Simpson's in the Strand

Simpson's in the Strand has been serving traditional British cuisine since 1828. The restaurant is known for its signature dish, roast beef, which is carved tableside. The interior is adorned with chandeliers and stained-glass windows, giving it an old-world feel. The restaurant has a rich history, having hosted celebrities and royalty over the years.

3. The Ivy

The Ivy is one of London's most iconic restaurants, having been a favorite of celebrities and politicians since the 1920s. The restaurant's interior is art deco-inspired, with leather banquettes and a stained-glass ceiling. The menu is a fusion of British and international cuisine, with signature dishes such as shepherd's pie and blackened cod.

4. The Ritz Restaurant

The Ritz Restaurant is located in the Ritz Hotel, which was opened in 1906. The restaurant's interior is opulent, with gold leaf and marble accents. The menu is traditional British cuisine, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is known for its afternoon tea service, which includes a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries.

5. The Wolseley

The Wolseley is housed in a former car showroom, which was built in 1921. The restaurant's interior is grand, with high ceilings and marble columns. The menu is a fusion of European and British cuisine, with dishes such as Wiener schnitzel and fish and chips. The restaurant is known for its breakfast and brunch offerings, which include classic dishes such as eggs Benedict and kippers.

6. Rules at the Opera

Rules at the Opera is a branch of the famous Rules restaurant, located in the iconic Royal Opera House. The restaurant's interior is decorated with vintage posters and photographs, celebrating the history of the opera house. The menu is a mix of classic British dishes and modern European cuisine, with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

7. Fortnum & Mason Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon

Fortnum & Mason is a luxury department store, known for its tea and confectionery. The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is located on the fourth floor of the store and offers a traditional English afternoon tea service. The interior is decorated with pastel hues and floral accents, giving it a feminine touch. The tea service includes a selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries, as well as a wide range of teas.

8. The Savoy Grill

The Savoy Grill is located in the iconic Savoy Hotel, which opened in 1889. The restaurant's interior is art deco-inspired, with leather banquettes and vintage chandeliers. The menu is a mix of classic British dishes and modern European cuisine, with signature dishes such as roast beef and Yorkshire pudding.

9. Wiltons

Wiltons is a seafood restaurant, which has been serving London since 1742. The restaurant's interior is elegant and timeless, with white tablecloths and classic décor. The menu features a wide range of fresh seafood, including oysters, lobsters, and grilled fish. Wiltons is also known for its extensive wine list, featuring bottles from around the world.

10. Rules at the National Portrait Gallery

Rules has a second branch located within the National Portrait Gallery. The restaurant's interior is modern and sleek, with an emphasis on art and photography. The menu is a mix of classic British dishes and modern European cuisine, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant also offers afternoon tea and pre-theatre dining options.

11. St. John Restaurant

St. John Restaurant is located in a former smokehouse and bacon curing factory, dating back to the 19th century. The restaurant's interior is rustic and minimalist, with an open kitchen and communal dining tables. The menu is focused on simple, seasonal ingredients, with a focus on meat dishes. St. John is also known for its bread, which is baked on-site daily.

12. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese is one of London's oldest pubs, dating back to 1667. The pub's interior is cozy and traditional, with dark wood paneling and fireplaces. The menu is focused on classic pub fare, including fish and chips and bangers and mash. The pub has a rich history, having been frequented by famous writers such as Charles Dickens and Mark Twain.

13. The Guinea Grill

The Guinea Grill is a traditional English pub, which has been serving London since 1423. The pub's interior is classic and unpretentious, with a focus on steak dishes. The menu features a wide range of steak cuts, including fillet, sirloin, and ribeye. The pub also offers a selection of craft beers and ales.

14. The Spaniards Inn

The Spaniards Inn is a historic pub, which dates back to the 16th century. The pub's interior is charming and traditional, with fireplaces and vintage décor. The menu features classic pub fare, such as fish and chips and steak and ale pie. The pub has a rich history, having been frequented by famous writers such as Charles Dickens and John Keats.

15. The Cinnamon Club

The Cinnamon Club is housed in the former Westminster Library, which was built in 1888. The restaurant's interior is grand and opulent, with high ceilings and vintage décor. The menu is a fusion of Indian and British cuisine, with signature dishes such as tandoori salmon and lamb biryani. The Cinnamon Club is also known for its extensive cocktail menu.

In conclusion, London is home to many historical restaurants, each with its own unique charm and culinary offerings. From traditional British pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something for every food enthusiast. Whether you are looking for classic dishes or modern cuisine, these historical restaurants are sure to leave a lasting impression.