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Chef’s Table Dining
A seat at the chef’s table (often a counter looking into the kitchen) is an engaging way to dine, whether solo or with company. Enjoy the theatre of a working kitchen as you watch your meal being prepared. For British cuisine in an informal (though not inexpensive) setting, try the chef’s table at The Social Eating House, Jason Atherton’s Michelin-starred venue. Alternatively, for seafood lovers, Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill offers a traditional oyster bar where expert shuckers make light work of fresh molluscs. You can also experience The Wigmore Tavern, where Michel Roux puts a modern spin on classic English dishes—including a giant cheese toastie!
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Continental Cuisine
If continental flavours are more your style, try Macellaio on Bankside, where you can watch the butcher at work while enjoying Italian fare, or head to Bocca di Lupo in Soho for top-quality regional Italian dishes. For French cuisine, visit Le Pain Quotidien, founded by Alain Coumont. Each branch features a large communal table to promote the convivial spirit of dining. The ethically sourced menu includes hearty stews, pies, and a variety of vegetarian options—steak is optional!
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Asian Cuisine
London boasts a wide range of Asian food options. Many Japanese sushi bars have chef’s counters where solo diners can marvel at the knife skills of expert sushi chefs. There are also plenty of Ramen bars offering quick, hearty bowls of noodles. Even Harrods features counter-service Asian dining at Chai Wu, perfect for solo visitors.
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Supper Clubs
For something more intimate and social, try a supper club—ideal for solo diners looking to meet new people. One standout is The London Foodie in Islington, where Japanese/South American fusion cuisine is served in a beautiful home setting. A Little Lusciousness by Rosie offers modern British dishes with a seasonal twist, while London from Scratch, by Michelle Francis, combines food walking tours with her own supper club events. More options can be found on Grub Club and Edible Experiences.
Street Food & Markets
London’s street food scene is thriving. If the weather isn’t ideal, head to Borough Market, a covered space where you can shop for fresh produce and grab bites like bacon sandwiches from Roast or oysters from Wright Brothers. Other top spots include Southbank Food Market, Kerb at Camden or King’s Cross, and Maltby Street Market. Many boroughs also host their own Farmers’ Markets, offering freshly cooked British fare.
Whatever your taste in food, you’ll find it now in London. There are plenty of options for dining out and eating well, whether you are on your own or have company. It’s just a question of thinking outside the box and not making for the nearest takeaway!
