In a month synonymous with love, what’s the hottest restaurant in town? These are the London restaurants to book this February.
From a sky-high new opening to can’t miss pop-ups and a very special collaboration at Piccadilly’s most iconic store, we’ve picked our top tables in the capital this month.
London's Highest Table: Lucky Cat, 22 Bishopsgate
London’s skyline gained several dazzling culinary additions this week, at London’s second tallest building, 22 Bishopsgate. The tower is home to three Gordon Ramsay restaurants, including the city’s highest dining destination Lucky Cat, which opened on 3 February. Perched on level 60, Ramsay’s Lucky Cat promises not only a delicious Asian-inspired menu accompanied by excellent cocktails, but also unparalleled 360-degree views of the city. The third Lucky Cat in the UK – and its second London outpost after Mayfair – this elevated space features a vibrant bar area, private dining rooms, and an intimate sushi bar where guests can witness chefs crafting their dishes up close. The Lucky Cat Terrace – set to be the highest rooftop bar in Europe – one floor up, is coming later this year for the perfect spot to sip cocktails above the hustle and bustle. It also features a retractable roof for when the weather (finally) decides to warm up.
Champagne For Lovers: The Portrait Restaurant
This Valentine’s Day, The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan and Searcys, is inviting guests to indulge in a romance-inspired set menu. Available exclusively on 14 and 15 February, the menu champions British seasonal produce, and includes classics such as lobster ravioli and beef wellington, followed by a trio of desserts, complemented by Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé Brut NV. Located above the National Portrait Gallery with stunning views over Trafalgar Square, the restaurant makes the perfect backdrop for an intimate evening. And, for those wanting to add even more splendour to the occasion, the restaurant and National Portrait Gallery will also be hosting the first The Art of Champagne (romance themed) series of the year on 15 February, featuring an exclusive out-of-hours gallery tour followed by a champagne masterclass led by Martin Dibben, Searcys’ Head of Champagne.
A Saintly Experience: St. John at Fortnum & Mason
This February, the iconic Michelin-starred St. John Restaurant will temporarily relocate to Fortnum & Mason’s Field restaurant on Piccadilly as its Smithfield home undergoes a refit – the first time that the department store has hosted an ‘outside’ restaurant in its 317-year history. From 6 to 22 February, diners can experience a faithful recreation of St. John’s signature dining room, complete with familiar wooden chairs and whitewashed walls. Even the restaurant’s bar has been recreated and will be serving up its famously potent Negronis and Fergronis – a gin variation created by St. John’s founder, Fergus Henderson. Head chef Steve Darou will helm the pop-up, and the menu – known for its nose-to-tail dining and interpretations of classic British dishes – will feature restaurant classics. This is a rare chance to enjoy St. John’s legendary fare in one of London’s most historic settings.
A Tuscan Takeover: Hotel II Pellicano x Claridge's
If you’re craving a touch of spring, Claridge’s is bringing la dolce vita to Mayfair this February with Tuscan retreat Il Pellicano’s one-week residency. Chef Michelino Gioia and his team will showcase signature Italian dishes, while the hotel’s legendary barman, Federico Morosi, will be mixing up his iconic cocktails. On the menu, expect Il Pellicano’s specialties including: Maremma-style ravioli with butter and sage; risotto with shrimp, ginger, and lime; and a classic tiramisu to round off the meal. The bar menu will feature bespoke Italian cocktails, each inspired by the stories and characters that have defined Il Pellicano over the years. Whether stepping in to enjoy the Italian evening tradition of aperitivo, or for dinner with an Italian twist, this is a table designed to brighten up your diary this February.
Electric Dining & Dancing: Flavour&Some x Control Room A
Another electrifying pop-up is coming to Battersea Power Station at the end of the month, at the Art Deco themed Control Room A – once responsible for distributing power across London – and in collaboration with Flavour&Some. The unique experience blends fine dining and immersive performance via gastronomy, storytelling and artistic flair. A five-course tasting menu crafted by award-winning chef and Noma alumnus Adam Thomason is at the heart of the evening, where each dish is paired with the diner’s choice of wines or cocktails. The twist? Traditional waiting staff are replaced by professional dancers, who deliver plates through spellbinding choreography, interacting with guests as they weave their way from kitchen to table. An original bespoke soundtrack accompanies each course, adding to the multi-sensory nature of the evening. An exclusive Chef’s Experience is also offered with an enhanced ticket, including a ‘peak behind the kitchen curtain’ and a secret kitchen course.
Valentine's Afternoon Tea: The Landmark London
Set within the iconic Winter Garden, The Landmark London’s Valentine’s Afternoon Tea features patisserie by head pastry chef Matteo Sargentelli, alongside delicate savouries, premium teas, and sparkling rosé. On 14 February, the experience will be elevated with live ballet performances, as ballerinas glide through the atrium, adding a touch of elegance to the already-romantic setting. The Valentine’s Afternoon Tea is priced at £102 per person (including a glass of Champagne or non-alcoholic sparkling wine each).
Love Above (Or Below) London: Akira Back, Mandarin Oriental
The Mandarin Oriental offers romance at every level with two unique dining options. The Love Above London menu, priced at £85 per person, is served in the rooftop ABar, featuring three dishes from their light-bites menu paired with a glass of Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut Champagne. For something more indulgent, the Love Below London menu at the hotel’s Akira Back restaurant is £250 per couple, offering a luxurious Japanese-inspired menu to share, including oysters, lobster tempura and wagyu striploin. Perfect for an intimate celebration or a casual bite with a view.
A Hoxton Love Affair: The Brush
The Brush Grand Café at the art’otel London Hoxton is offering movie lovers a cinematic twist on Valentine’s Day night with its A Hoxton Love Affair dining packages, running from 14 to 15 February. Enjoy a four-course menu featuring dishes like hand-picked crab tartlet and pan-roasted Charolais beef, paired with two cocktails and gourmet popcorn. Either before or after dinner, the package includes a visit to the hotel’s on-site cinema, which will be playing a curated lineup of cult and classic romantic films, such as Lost in Translation, Romeo + Juliet and When Harry Met Sally. The ‘Dinner and a Movie’ package is priced at £110 per person, with both dinner and movie packages also available separately.
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Lead image: Claridge’s by Andrew Edmunds
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