Dining
Michelin-Star Restaurants in London
London's Michelin-starred kitchens, and which stars are actually worth the spend.
In short: our top picks are Core by Clare Smyth, A. Wong and Ikoyi. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
A Michelin star is a promise, not a guarantee: London has dozens, and they range from life-list dinners to rooms coasting on reputation. These are the ones we would actually book, for the cooking and the occasion both.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Core by Clare Smyth | Notting Hill | ££££ |
| A. Wong | Victoria | £££ |
| Ikoyi | ££££ | |
| The Ledbury | Notting Hill | ££££ |
| Trivet | Bermondsey | ££££ |
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Editor’s choice
Core by Clare Smyth
Why we pick itThree stars in Notting Hill from one of the best chefs in the country, doing refined British produce with astonishing precision. A genuine life-list dinner.
The life-list three-star.
-
A. Wong
Why we pick itThe only Chinese restaurant in Europe with two stars, turning dim sum and regional cooking into something extraordinary. Book the tasting menu.
The most exciting two-star in town.
-
Ikoyi
Why we pick itA bold, singular two-star doing West African-inspired cooking like nowhere else. Divisive, thrilling and unforgettable.
Like nothing else you have eaten.
-
The Ledbury
Why we pick itA Notting Hill institution back to two stars and as good as ever. Faultless, generous, grown-up fine dining.
Faultless and grown-up.
-
Trivet
Why we pick itJonny Lake and Isa Bal's elegant Bermondsey room, with one of the most thoughtful wine lists in London. Quietly brilliant.
For the wine as much as the food.
Before you book
Book weeks ahead for the big names, and look at lunch: many top kitchens do a set lunch at a fraction of the dinner price. Tell them if it is a celebration. And go hungry but unhurried; these are not meals to rush.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
Core by Clare Smyth is our editor's choice: Three stars in Notting Hill from one of the best chefs in the country, doing refined British produce with astonishing precision. A genuine life-list dinner. Core by Clare Smyth, A. Wong and Ikoyi 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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