In a city as diverse as London, it’s no surprise that dining out can be a memorable adventure. While the food is always important, sometimes it’s the atmosphere, the unexpected quirks, and the sheer creativity of a place that leave a lasting impression. Central London is home to some of the most innovative and eccentric restaurants, where dining is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From surreal settings to playful menus, here are the Top 10 Quirky Restaurants in Central London, each offering something a little out of the ordinary.
1. Sketch, Mayfair
When it comes to quirky dining in London, Sketch reigns supreme. With its ever-changing interiors, art installations, and whimsical vibe, it’s a feast for the eyes as much as the stomach. The iconic Gallery Room, with its bubblegum-pink velvet booths, is a surreal dreamscape that complements the playful afternoon tea menu. Meanwhile, The Lecture Room & Library, with its two Michelin stars, offers an avant-garde fine dining experience. And don’t miss the futuristic, pod-like bathrooms, which are as much a talking point as the food.
Location: 9 Conduit St, Mayfair
Best for: A quirky, art-filled dining experience with imaginative food.
Don’t miss: The afternoon tea in the pink Gallery or the Michelin-starred tasting menu.
2. Circus, Covent Garden
Part restaurant, part performance space, Circus is an immersive dining experience where dinner comes with a side of cabaret, fire-breathers, and acrobatic acts. The chic, modern decor, with its mirrored walls and ambient lighting, sets the stage for the theatrical performances that unfold between courses. The menu, which blends Pan-Asian flavors, offers delights like black cod with miso and Thai beef salad, but the real highlight is the jaw-dropping, immersive entertainment that keeps the night lively.
Location: 27-29 Endell St, Covent Garden
Best for: Dinner with a side of circus magic and theatrical flair.
Don’t miss: The acrobatic performances between courses and the sharing-style Asian fusion dishes.
3. Bob Bob Ricard, Soho
Known for its "Press for Champagne" button at every table, Bob Bob Ricard brings a dash of 1920s glamour and indulgence to Soho. The luxurious, art deco-inspired interiors, with plush leather booths and gold accents, transport you to another era. The menu is British-Russian fusion, featuring rich dishes like truffle and potato vareniki and lobster mac and cheese. Whether you're celebrating or just indulging in an extravagant meal, the constant stream of champagne adds a decadent touch to the dining experience.
Location: 1 Upper James St, Soho
Best for: Glamorous dining with an old-school, indulgent vibe.
Don’t miss: Pressing the Champagne button for endless bubbles and the comforting, indulgent chicken, mushroom, and champagne pie.
4. Archipelago, Fitzrovia
For the adventurous eater, Archipelago offers a truly unique and exotic experience. This eclectic restaurant serves dishes from around the world, featuring rare and unusual ingredients like crocodile, zebra, and even python carpaccio. The dining room is just as quirky as the menu, adorned with global artifacts, golden Buddhas, and peacock feathers, creating a vibrant, otherworldly atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can step out of your culinary comfort zone and try something wild—literally.
Location: 110 Whitfield St, Fitzrovia
Best for: Adventurous diners looking for exotic and rare dishes.
Don’t miss: The crocodile fillet and the zebra jerky—a real taste of the unusual.
5. Inamo, Soho
A futuristic dining experience like no other, Inamo combines Asian fusion cuisine with cutting-edge technology. The restaurant is famous for its interactive tables, where diners can place their orders via touchscreens, play games, and even watch the chefs at work via a “chef cam.” The menu offers a mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Thai-inspired dishes, including sushi platters, Korean BBQ ribs, and duck with pancakes. It’s a fun, tech-driven experience perfect for a lively night out with friends.
Location: 134-136 Wardour St, Soho
Best for: Tech-savvy dining with a side of fun and innovation.
Don’t miss: The interactive ordering system and the dragon roll sushi.
6. Sarastro, Covent Garden
Dubbed the “Show After the Show,” Sarastro is an immersive, theatrical dining experience like no other. Situated in Covent Garden’s theatre district, this restaurant is as much a visual spectacle as it is a dining venue. With its opulent, OTT decor—think velvet drapes, gilded balconies, and antique furniture—Sarastro resembles an old opera house. Live performances, from opera singers to live jazz, add to the ambiance, making it the perfect spot for post-theatre dining. The Mediterranean-inspired menu features dishes like lamb shank and grilled seafood.
Location: 126 Drury Ln, Covent Garden
Best for: Post-theatre dining with live performances in a lavish setting.
Don’t miss: The lamb shank and the live opera performances.
7. Clos Maggiore, Covent Garden
Known as one of London’s most romantic restaurants, Clos Maggiore enchants diners with its magical, fairytale-like setting. The star of the show is the conservatory, which is covered in twinkling lights and cherry blossoms, making it feel like you’re dining in an enchanted garden. The menu is French-inspired, with dishes like seared scallops, lobster, and duck breast. Whether you're on a date night or celebrating a special occasion, Clos Maggiore is a whimsical escape from the hustle of London.
Location: 33 King St, Covent Garden
Best for: Romantic dining in a dreamlike setting.
Don’t miss: The conservatory seating for the ultimate romantic experience, and the lobster risotto.
8. Mr Fogg’s Tavern, Covent Garden
Step into the world of Phileas Fogg at Mr Fogg’s Tavern, where Victorian eccentricity meets quirky pub vibes. Inspired by the Jules Verne novel Around the World in 80 Days, this whimsical tavern is filled with curiosities from Fogg’s fictional adventures. The decor is a mix of antiques, maps, and trinkets, and the drinks menu features creative, themed cocktails. While the food is classic British pub fare, the atmosphere—complete with costumed staff—makes it a quirky, immersive experience.
Location: 58 St Martin’s Ln, Covent Garden
Best for: A whimsical, Victorian-themed pub with creative cocktails.
Don’t miss: The Around the World in 80 Cocktails menu and the classic fish and chips.
9. Dans Le Noir?, Clerkenwell
Dining in complete darkness? That’s exactly what you get at Dans Le Noir?, one of London’s most unique and sensory dining experiences. At this Clerkenwell restaurant, guests eat in pitch-black darkness, guided by visually impaired waiters. The idea is to heighten the other senses and focus purely on the taste, texture, and aroma of the food. The menu remains a surprise until after your meal, adding to the intrigue and excitement. It’s an unforgettable experience that challenges the way you think about food.
Location: 69-73 St John St, Clerkenwell
Best for: A sensory dining experience in total darkness.
Don’t miss: The mystery menu—you won’t know until you’ve finished eating!
10. Sketch House of Minalima, Soho
If you’re a Harry Potter fan or a lover of all things magical, House of Minalima is the perfect spot for a quirky, enchanted tea. Located in the heart of Soho, the venue is designed by Minalima, the graphic designers behind the Harry Potter films. The walls are lined with wizardry-inspired art, and the afternoon tea menu is an imaginative mix of classic English treats with a magical twist. From butterbeer to enchanting cakes, this spot is ideal for those looking for a whimsical, themed dining experience.
Location: 157 Wardour St, Soho
Best for: Harry Potter fans and lovers of magical, themed experiences.
Don’t miss: The afternoon tea with butterbeer and spellbinding treats