South Bank is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich areas of London, located on the south bank of the River Thames. It is a melting pot of art, music, and theatre, attracting millions of visitors every year. However, South Bank is not just about entertainment, it is also home to some of the best restaurants in the city. From fine dining establishments to casual eateries, there is something for everyone to savor.
In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey along South Bank and introduce you to some of the best restaurants in the area. Whether you are looking for traditional British cuisine or international flavors, you are sure to find a restaurant that will tantalize your taste buds.
Top 10 South Bank Restaurants
- Skylon: Located on the first floor of the Royal Festival Hall, Skylon is a stylish and modern restaurant that offers breathtaking views of the River Thames. The menu at Skylon is a mix of British and European dishes, with an emphasis on fresh and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including poached lobster and smoked salmon.
One of the standout dishes at Skylon is roast beef, which is cooked to perfection and served with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The dessert menu is also impressive, with options such as the chocolate and hazelnut brownie and the lemon tart.
- Ping Pong: If you are looking for a more casual dining experience, then Ping Pong is the perfect restaurant for you. This dim sum chain has a branch located in the heart of South Bank, serving up delicious and authentic Chinese food.
The menu at Ping Pong is extensive, with a range of dim sum dishes to choose from, including steamed dumplings, buns, and rolls. The restaurant also offers a range of main courses, such as the crispy duck and the spicy Sichuan chicken.
One of the best things about Ping Pong is its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. The restaurant is a great place to grab a bite to eat before heading off to see a show or explore the sights of South Bank.
- Oxo Tower Restaurant: For a fine dining experience with stunning views of the River Thames, head to the Oxo Tower Restaurant. Located on the eighth floor of the Oxo Tower, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the city skyline.
The menu at Oxo Tower Restaurant is contemporary British, with an emphasis on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is known for its exquisite seafood dishes, including the Cornish crab and the smoked haddock.
One of the standout dishes at Oxo Tower Restaurant is the roasted loin of venison, served with braised red cabbage and a red wine jus. The dessert menu is also impressive, with options such as the sticky toffee pudding and the chocolate delice.
- Wahaca: If you are a fan of Mexican cuisine, then Wahaca is the perfect restaurant for you. This casual eatery serves up delicious and authentic Mexican street food, with a range of tacos, quesadillas, and burritos to choose from.
One of the standout dishes at Wahaca is the chicken tinga tacos, which are packed with flavor and served with fresh salsa and guacamole. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, such as the butternut squash and feta quesadilla.
Wahaca has a lively atmosphere, with a range of cocktails and Mexican beers on offer. The restaurant is a great place to meet friends and enjoy a fun night out.
- Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar: For meat lovers, Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar is the perfect restaurant. Located in the London Marriott Hotel County Hall, this restaurant specializes in British beef, with a range of cuts and cooking methods on offer.
The menu at Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar is extensive, with options such as the 28-day dry-aged Aberdeen Angus rib-eye and the Chateaubriand for two. The restaurant also offers a range of sides and sauces to complement your steaks, such as the triple-cooked chips and the peppercorn sauce.
In addition to the delicious food, Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar also has a great selection of cocktails and wines, making it the perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
- Giraffe: If you are looking for a family-friendly restaurant in South Bank, then Giraffe is the perfect choice. This casual eatery offers a range of international cuisine, including burgers, salads, and pasta dishes.
One of the standout dishes at Giraffe is the chicken and chorizo burger, which is packed with flavor and served with skin-on fries. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, such as lentils, beetroot, and feta salad.
Giraffe has a fun and lively atmosphere, with a range of cocktails and mocktails on offer. The restaurant is a great place to take the kids for a meal after a day of exploring the South Bank.
- Le Pain Quotidien: For a more laid-back dining experience, head to Le Pain Quotidien. This bakery and cafe serve up delicious and freshly baked bread, pastries, and cakes, as well as a range of salads, sandwiches, and soups.
One of the standout dishes at Le Pain Quotidien is the organic quinoa tabbouleh salad, which is packed with fresh vegetables and herbs. The bakery also offers a range of sweet treats, such as the almond croissant and the chocolate brownie.
Le Pain Quotidien has a relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat or catch up with friends over a cup of coffee.
- Tamesis Dock: For a unique dining experience on the River Thames, head to Tamesis Dock. This converted barge is now a floating restaurant and bar, offering stunning views of the city skyline.
The menu at Tamesis Dock is a mix of British and international cuisine, with options such as fish and chips and Thai green curry. The restaurant also offers a range of shared plates, perfect for enjoying with friends.
In addition to the delicious food, Tamesis Dock also has a great selection of cocktails and craft beers. The restaurant is a great place to enjoy a drink and watch the sunset over the River Thames.
- Côte Brasserie: For a taste of French cuisine, head to Côte Brasserie. This casual eatery serves up delicious and authentic French dishes, with a range of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
One of the standout dishes at Côte Brasserie is the steak frites, which are served with garlic butter and a side of skinny fries. The restaurant also offers a range of salads and seafood dishes, such as salmon fishcakes and the prawn gratinée.
Côte Brasserie has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a casual meal with friends or family.
- Las Iguanas: For a taste of Latin America, head to Las Iguanas. This casual eatery offers a range of dishes inspired by the flavors of Brazil, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
One of the standout dishes at Las Iguanas is the Xinxim, a traditional Brazilian dish made with chicken and prawns in a peanut and coconut sauce. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, such as beetroot and butternut squash enchiladas.
Las Iguanas has a lively atmosphere, with a range of cocktails and mocktails on offer. The restaurant also hosts regular live music events, making it a great place to enjoy a night out with friends.
Conclusion
South Bank is home to a diverse range of restaurants, offering cuisine from all around the world. Whether you are looking for a casual eatery or an upscale dining experience, there is something for everyone in this vibrant part of London.
From the delicious steaks at Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar to the authentic Mexican street food at Wahaca, there is no shortage of culinary delights to explore in South Bank. So why not plan a visit and discover your new favorite restaurant today?
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Frequently Asked Questions About South Bank Restaurants
If you’re planning to dine in South Bank or are just curious about the dining scene, you may have some questions about the restaurants in the area. Here are some frequently asked questions about South Bank restaurants:
- What type of cuisine is available in South Bank restaurants?
South Bank restaurants offer a diverse range of cuisines, from traditional British fare to international cuisine such as Italian, French, and Mexican. You can find anything from casual street food to upscale fine dining experiences.
- Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at South Bank restaurants?
Yes, many South Bank restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus. Some restaurants, such as the Ethiopian restaurant Beza, offer entirely vegan menus. Other restaurants like Wahaca and The Real Greek have a range of vegetarian and vegan options to choose from.
- Do I need to make a reservation at South Bank restaurants?
It’s recommended to make a reservation at most South Bank restaurants, especially popular ones or those that offer fine dining experiences. However, some casual eateries like the street food markets may not require reservations.
- Can I find halal food options in South Bank restaurants?
Yes, there are halal food options available at some South Bank restaurants. Some examples include Halal Guys, which serves halal meat, and Borough Market’s Turkish restaurant, Gourmet Goat, which offers halal meat options.
- Are there any child-friendly restaurants in South Bank?
Yes, there are many child-friendly restaurants in South Bank. For example, Giraffe and The Real Greek offer kids’ menus and high chairs, and Wahaca has a fun and casual atmosphere that kids would enjoy.
- Are there any restaurants with outdoor seating in South Bank?
Yes, many South Bank restaurants offer outdoor seating, especially those along the riverfront. For example, the outdoor terrace at the Oxo Tower Brasserie offers stunning views of the Thames and the London skyline, and the Riverside Terrace at the Southbank Centre Food Market provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy your food.
- Can I find gluten-free options at South Bank restaurants?
Yes, many South Bank restaurants offer gluten-free options on their menus. For example, The Wharf Restaurant has a dedicated gluten-free menu, and Wahaca offers gluten-free versions of some of its dishes.
- Can I find restaurants that offer pre-theatre dining in South Bank?
Yes, many South Bank restaurants offer pre-theatre dining options. For example, the Oxo Tower Brasserie has a pre-theatre menu available from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm on weekdays, and Skylon offers a pre-theatre menu from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm daily.
- Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in South Bank?
No, there are no Michelin-starred restaurants in South Bank at the moment. However, many restaurants in the area offer high-quality cuisine and dining experiences that are worth exploring.
- Can I find restaurants that offer private dining in South Bank?
Yes, many South Bank restaurants offer private dining options for special occasions or events. For example, the private dining room at the Oxo Tower Brasserie offers stunning views of the Thames and the London skyline and can accommodate up to 26 guests.
- Are there any restaurants that offer live music or entertainment in South Bank?
Yes, some South Bank restaurants offer live music or entertainment as part of their dining experience. For example, The Green Room at the National Theatre hosts regular cabaret and jazz events, and The Archduke offers live jazz music performances every night.
- Can I find budget-friendly restaurants in South Bank?
Yes, there are budget-friendly dining options in South Bank, especially at the street food markets and casual eateries. For example, the Southbank Centre Food Market offers a range of affordable street food options, and Nando’s is a popular and affordable option for casual dining.
Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience, casual street food, or something in between, South Bank has plenty of options to choose from. Don’t hesitate to explore the area and discover new dining experiences for yourself.
