Dining
The 5 Best Restaurants in South Kensington
Museum-quarter dining done well: where to eat around South Kensington, from grand to neighbourhood.
In short: our top picks are Bibendum, Daphnes and Cambio de Tercio. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
South Kensington is grander than it lets on, and its dining follows suit: elegant rooms for after the museums, French classics, and neighbourhood places the locals keep quiet about. These are the tables worth knowing in one of London’s most handsome corners.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bibendum | South Kensington | ££££ |
| Daphnes | Chelsea | £££ |
| Cambio de Tercio | South Kensington | £££ |
| Yashin Sushi | South Kensington | £££ |
| Bibendum | South Kensington | ££££ |
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Editor’s choice
Bibendum
Why we pick itClaude Bosis two-star kitchen in the stained-glass Michelin building; a true occasion.
-
Daphnes
Why we pick itA Chelsea-set Italian institution with a retractable roof; glamorous and reliably good.
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Cambio de Tercio
Why we pick itA serious Spanish room with one of Londons great sherry and Rioja lists.
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Yashin Sushi
Why we pick itInventive, top-grade sushi from a counter that takes its fish very seriously.
-
Bibendum
Why we pick itClaude Bosi's two-Michelin-starred restaurant in the Michelin building.
Before you book
Book the well-known rooms, especially around the museum crowds at weekends, and consider lunch after a morning at the V&A or the Natural History Museum. The side streets hide the best of it, so walk a little off the main drag. And dress smart; South Kensington quietly expects it.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
Bibendum is our editor's choice: Claude Bosis two-star kitchen in the stained-glass Michelin building; a true occasion. Bibendum, Daphnes and Cambio de Tercio lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.
How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?
Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.
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