French cuisine has long been adored for its elegance, rich flavors, and meticulous preparation. Whether you're in the mood for a traditional steak frites, a hearty cassoulet, or an indulgent crème brûlée, Central London has a variety of French restaurants that bring the best of Parisian dining to the city. From chic brasseries to cozy bistros, here are the Top 10 French Restaurants in Central London where classic French gastronomy shines.
1. Clos Maggiore, Covent Garden
Famed for its enchanting floral-adorned conservatory and intimate atmosphere, Clos Maggiore is often called one of the most romantic restaurants in London. The menu takes inspiration from Provence and Tuscany, offering a refined selection of French-Mediterranean dishes. Signature items like the lobster bisque and roast venison are crafted with flair, while the extensive wine list makes this a top destination for special occasions.
Location: 33 King St, Covent Garden
Best for: A romantic, intimate dinner in a magical floral setting.
Don’t miss: The roasted loin of venison—a perfectly balanced dish of rich game and sweet spiced chutney.
2. L’Escargot, Soho
L’Escargot has been serving classic French cuisine since 1927 and remains one of the city’s most charming French establishments. Set in a townhouse on Greek Street, the restaurant is celebrated for its timeless dishes like escargots in garlic butter, steak tartare, and duck confit. The plush, cozy interiors with antique furnishings add a touch of old-world elegance, making it a perfect spot for a sophisticated yet relaxed French meal.
Location: 48 Greek St, Soho
Best for: A historic French dining experience with a traditional menu.
Don’t miss: The escargots de Bourgogne—deliciously garlicky and perfectly cooked.
3. Balthazar, Covent Garden
Bringing the grandeur of a Parisian brasserie to London, Balthazar in Covent Garden has become a go-to for classic French comfort food. The elegant interiors, with red leather banquettes and oversized mirrors, exude glamour. The menu offers all the classics, from onion soup gratinée to steak frites and moules marinières. Whether you stop by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Balthazar never disappoints with its lively atmosphere and reliably delicious food.
Location: 4-6 Russell St, Covent Garden
Best for: Brasserie-style French classics in a lively, chic setting.
Don’t miss: The steak frites—perfectly grilled steak served with golden, crispy fries.
4.Brasserie Zédel, Piccadilly Circus
Tucked away just off Piccadilly Circus, Brasserie Zédel offers an authentic Parisian dining experience in a stunning Art Deco setting. This grand brasserie is famous for its classic French dishes served in a lavish space reminiscent of 1930s Paris. Whether you're craving escargots, steak-frites, or a rich coq au vin, the menu delivers perfectly executed French comfort food at prices that are hard to beat in central London.
Location: 20 Sherwood Street, Piccadilly Circus
Best for: Affordable French classics in a grand, Art Deco brasserie.
Don’t miss: The prix-fixe menu for unbeatable value, and the steak-frites paired with a glass of French red wine.
5. Pierre Victoire, Soho
Pierre Victoire is a charming bistro offering affordable, rustic French fare that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With its intimate atmosphere and warm service, it feels like a slice of provincial France in the heart of Soho. The menu is packed with classic French comfort dishes like boeuf bourguignon, duck confit, and seafood bouillabaisse. The cozy space and wallet-friendly prices make it a great option for a casual dinner or a laid-back lunch.
Location: 5 Dean St, Soho
Best for: Traditional French bistro dishes in a relaxed, budget-friendly setting.
Don’t miss: The tender, slow-cooked boeuf bourguignon—a French comfort food staple.
6. La Poule au Pot, Belgravia
With its rustic charm and romantic candlelit setting, La Poule au Pot is one of the most atmospheric French restaurants in London. The menu focuses on hearty, comforting dishes like coq au vin and cassoulet, served in generous portions. Located in the leafy Belgravia neighborhood, this restaurant feels like a hidden gem, perfect for a quiet evening out or a cozy dinner date.
Location: 231 Ebury St, Belgravia
Best for: Romantic French dining in a rustic, cozy atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The classic coq au vin, slow-cooked and bursting with flavour.
7. Orrery, Marylebone
Nestled in the heart of Marylebone, Orrery offers refined French dining in a modern, elegant setting. The seasonal menu showcases sophisticated dishes like roast duck with figs, lobster bisque, and creamy foie gras. The restaurant’s rooftop terrace is a hidden gem, offering beautiful views over Marylebone, perfect for a leisurely lunch or a special evening out.
Location: 55 Marylebone High St, Marylebone
Best for: Refined French cuisine with a chic rooftop terrace.
Don’t miss: The lobster bisque—a rich, indulgent dish perfect for seafood lovers.
8. La Petite Maison, Mayfair
Located in the heart of Mayfair, La Petite Maison offers a Mediterranean twist on classic French dishes. The restaurant’s light, Provençal-inspired menu features items like ratatouille, sea bass with artichokes, and truffle pasta, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. The bright, airy interiors create an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a great choice for a stylish yet informal meal.
Location: 54 Brook’s Mews, Mayfair
Best for: Light, Mediterranean-influenced French cuisine in a stylish setting.
Don’t miss: The truffle pasta—a beautifully rich and aromatic dish.
9. Blanchette, Soho
For a vibrant, bistro-style dining experience, Blanchette is one of Soho’s hidden gems. The menu is made up of small sharing plates, perfect for exploring a variety of French flavors. Dishes like steak tartare, ratatouille, and escargots are presented with a modern twist. With its warm, rustic decor and lively atmosphere, Blanchette is ideal for casual dining with friends or a lively dinner date.
Location: 9 D'Arblay St, Soho
Best for: Small sharing plates and a laid-back, rustic vibe.
Don’t miss: The steak tartare—a delicate balance of flavors with a modern twist.
10. Côte Brasserie, Various Locations
For a reliable, accessible French brasserie experience, Côte Brasserie offers classic French dishes at multiple locations across Central London. Known for its reasonably priced set menus, Côte is perfect for those craving French staples like moules frites, steak frites, and creme caramel in a relaxed and unpretentious setting. Whether you’re after breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Côte consistently delivers hearty, comforting French food at an affordable price.
Location: Various locations, including Covent Garden and Soho
Best for: Affordable, everyday French classics in a relaxed, brasserie-style setting.
Don’t miss: The classic moules frites, served with garlic and white wine sauce