Top 10 Places to Eat and Drink in Mayfair and St James’s, London

London’s upscale Mayfair and St James’s neighborhoods are a foodie paradise – a blend of high-end restaurants, chic cafes, and hidden gems tucked amid luxury boutiques and historic streets. In this personal guide, I’ll share my top 10 favorite spots to eat and drink in Mayfair and St James’s. From an Instagram-famous afternoon tea to an authentic tapas bar, each of these places offers something special. I’ll also sprinkle in practical info like opening hours, typical prices, and tips, so you can plan your visit like a pro. Let’s dive in!

Sketch – The Quirky Culinary Wonderland

The eclectic interior of Sketch’s Gallery, famous for its pink decor and whimsical art installations.

If you love art, adventure, and afternoon tea with a twist, Sketch is a must-visit. This world-famous, multi-storey dining emporium in Mayfair is home to multiple restaurants and bars – and arguably London’s most famous loos (yes, those futuristic egg-shaped pods in the bathroom are an attraction in themselves!). Opened in 2003 by Mourad “Momo” Mazouz with chef Pierre Gagnaire, Sketch has earned high accolades (including 3 Michelin stars in its top-floor Lecture Room & Library).

• Atmosphere: Every room at Sketch has a different theme. The Gallery is an all-pink wonderland lined with witty artwork – perfect for a stylish afternoon tea with champagne and finger sandwiches. By night, it turns into a modern European brasserie often accompanied by a live string trio. The Parlour is a chic café-bar (great for breakfast or cocktails), and the enchanted Glade feels like a fairy-tale forest – ideal for weekend brunch. Even the East Bar (with its spaceship-like egg bathrooms nearby) and the elegant Lecture Room & Library have their own personalities.
• Food & Drink: Sketch’s menus are as playful as the decor. In the Gallery, afternoon tea features creative pastries and sculptural cakes. Come dinner, you can expect a mix of French-inspired and contemporary dishes (one night it might be truffled pasta, another night a delicate fish dish). The Lecture Room offers a tasting menu for serious gourmets (budget around £120+ per person there). Cocktails are inventive across all bars – don’t miss trying one at the Parlour or East Bar after 7pm.
• Practical Info:
  Reservations are a very good idea, especially for afternoon tea (book weeks in advance if possible).
  Dress code is “art smart” – basically chic and stylish, which fits with the quirky vibe (feel free to dress up a bit for fun!).
  Opening hours vary by room: The Gallery serves afternoon tea daily around 11:00–16:30 and dinner from ~18:30–22:00 (later on weekends). The Parlour and Glade open from breakfast time (8:30 or 9:00) through lunch and then become cocktail bars till midnight or 2am on weekends. Price-wise, afternoon tea is about £85 per person, dinner mains £30–£50, and cocktails ~£16–£20 each – expensive but unforgettable.
• Why Visit: Simply put, Sketch is an immersive art-and-food experience. It’s perfect for a special occasion or splurge. Whether you’re snapping photos of the pink Gallery or marveling at the 18th-century architecture of the building, you’ll remember your time at Sketch. (Tip: Don’t leave without visiting the bathrooms – it’s part of the adventure!)

Momo – A Moroccan Escape in the Heart of Mayfair

Just steps from bustling Regent Street, Momo transports you to a North African oasis. Tucked away on charming Heddon Street, this iconic restaurant and lounge has been hosting Londoners and globe-trotters since 1997. It was actually Mourad Mazouz’s first big hit (before he opened Sketch), and you can feel the decades of celebration in its atmosphere.

• Atmosphere: From the moment you arrive, the scene is set with Moorish lanterns, cushioned banquettes, and the aroma of spice in the air. Momo boasts a foliage-adorned terrace – lovely on warm evenings – and a hip subterranean bar where DJs spin world music beats late into the night. It’s intimate, romantic, and just a little bit exotic. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself lingering over mint tea or shisha under the stars in the outdoor area.
• Food & Drink: The menu spans Moroccan and Mediterranean favorites. Think tagines with melt-in-your-mouth lamb, fluffy couscous, mezze platters of hummus and zaalouk (smoky aubergine dip), and pastilla (savory-sweet pigeon pie in flaky pastry) – all bursting with flavor. Vegetarians will have plenty of options too (the roasted cauliflower with tahini is delicious). Prices are moderate-to-upscale: small plates £8–£15, tagines around £25. Cocktails here are fun – try a date-infused Old Fashioned or the signature “Momo” cocktail with rose and pomegranate for a Middle Eastern twist. They also serve weekend brunch (with dishes like shakshuka) and a popular afternoon tea with a Moroccan twist, complete with mint tea and pastries.
• Practical Info: Momo is typically open daily from around noon till late (often past midnight). Currently, dinner service starts at 6:00pm Wednesday–Sunday, but as of summer 2025 they appear to have resumed lunch and all-week operations (Mon–Sat 12:00–1:00AM, Sun till midnight) – so it’s best to check ahead. Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends. Dress is “smart casual” – you’ll fit right in with stylish attire that’s comfortable (no need for a tie, but embrace the chic vibes).
• Why Visit: Momo offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience in Mayfair – it’s not every day you get to dine in a dimly lit “Bedouin tent” ambiance in central London. It’s perfect for a date night or a catch-up with friends when you want something beyond the usual. Personally, I love going for a late dinner and then moving to the bar for live DJs and cocktails until the early hours. Momo truly lets you “escape the mundane” and bask in a little Marrakech magic in Mayfair.

Galvin at Windows – (Formerly) Dining with a Sky-High View

High atop the 28th floor of the Park Lane Hilton, Galvin at Windows was a legendary sky bar and restaurant that offered panoramic views over Hyde Park and London’s skyline. For 18 years it dazzled diners – including earning a Michelin star – before closing its doors in 2023. While you can’t eat at Galvin at Windows right now, its story and the experience it offered are worth noting – and there’s an exciting new chapter on the way.

• Atmosphere (Past): Imagine stepping out of the elevator into a glamorous 28th-floor dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows. By day, sunlight flooded in along with views of green parkland; by night, the city lights twinkled below. The vibe was upscale yet not stuffy – smartly dressed guests clinking wine glasses while gazing out over London. A separate Sky Bar (10° at Galvin’s) shook up excellent cocktails. It was the kind of place you’d go to celebrate an anniversary or impress someone special – truly “dinner with a view” defined.
• Food & Drink: The cuisine focused on modern French/British fine dining – think beautifully plated seasonal dishes like Dorset crab, Highland venison, or vegetarian creations with truffle. A 3-course menu ran around £60–£70 (more with wine), and they also had a great value lunch/pre-theatre set menu. Service was impeccable. The wine list was extensive, and at the bar you could enjoy everything from perfectly crafted martinis to fun signature cocktails.
• Practical Info: Galvin at Windows closed in late 2022 after a successful 18-year run. The Galvin brothers decided to refocus on their other venues, and the Hilton began a major renovation. The good news for sky-high dining fans: a new restaurant called Shanghai Me (a glamorous Dubai-born concept serving upscale Asian cuisine) is taking over that 28th-floor space, slated to open in late 2024. So, depending on when you visit London, you might be able to experience a new iteration of rooftop dining at this address – keep an eye out! In the meantime, the 28th-floor bar is expected to return as well, so you can still potentially grab a cocktail with that stunning view of London’s skyline and Hyde Park.
• Why Visit (Alternatives): While we bid farewell to Galvin at Windows and its era of Michelin-starred dining in the clouds, the idea of dinner with a view in Mayfair isn’t gone. You might consider nearby Windows-esque experiences: for example, the Duck and Waffle or City Social in the City (if you don’t mind a short trip) for sky-high dining, or The Dorchester Rooftop (seasonal popup) overlooking Hyde Park. And of course, once Shanghai Me opens on the 28th floor, you can be among the first to check out the revamped space. It’s fascinating how London’s dining scene evolves – Galvin at Windows had its time, and now something new and shiny will carry on the tradition of elevated dining (literally!) in this iconic location.

(Fun fact: The Galvin at Windows team was known not just for food but also for hospitality – their former Director, Fred Sirieix, became a bit of a UK TV star on shows like First Dates. So the legacy of good service lives on!)

Rasa W1 – South Indian Flavors in Mayfair

Craving some spice and color? Rasa W1 is a delightful South Indian (Keralan) restaurant tucked on Dering Street, just off Oxford Street in Mayfair. It brings a casual, authentic vibe right into the posh neighborhood. Rasa originally began life as a strictly vegetarian restaurant, and though it later added a meat section to the menu, it remains a paradise for veggie lovers.

• Atmosphere: Rasa W1 is unpretentious and cozy. You’ll likely spot its signature bright pink exterior (a holdover from the original vegetarian “Rasa” branding). Inside, the décor is simple and homey, with Indian artwork and a warm welcome from the staff. It feels a bit like a hidden hole-in-the-wall – in a good way. Because the space is not huge, tables can be close together, but that often adds to a convivial, lively atmosphere as aromas of curry leaves and coconut waft from the kitchen.
• Food & Drink: The cuisine is from Kerala, the spice-rich Malabar Coast of India. Expect dishes that might be new to you if you’ve only tried standard North Indian fare. Signature picks include dosas (savory rice crepes) with spiced potato filling, uttapam (South Indian rice pancakes), and fantastic curries like the mango pulliserry (a sweet-tangy yogurt-based curry) or a rich Kerala coconut milk stew. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you’ll be in heaven – Rasa’s plant-based dishes like beetroot pachadi (beets in spiced yogurt) and dal curry burst with flavor. They do serve meat and fish now too, so you can find a chicken curry or seafood speciality if you want. Portions are good and prices very reasonable for Mayfair (curries around £12, dosas under £10, rice and sides £3–£5). Don’t forget to try the banana chips with chutney as a starter! To drink, they offer Indian beers (Kingfisher) and lassi (yogurt drinks), and it’s licensed for wine as well.
• Practical Info:
  Opening hours: Rasa is typically open for lunch (around 12:00–3:00pm) and then dinner (6:00–10:30pm), Monday through Saturday, with a slightly shorter day on Sunday (often open only 1:00–8:00pm). It’s a modest-sized place, so reservations are advised for dinner, especially if you’re a larger group or it’s a Friday/Saturday. That said, I’ve often popped in for a late lunch on a weekday and gotten a table without booking. The staff is friendly and happy to explain dishes if you’re unfamiliar. The restaurant is just a 2-minute walk from Oxford Circus or Bond Street stations, making it a great shopping break spot.
• Why Visit: Rasa W1 is a refreshing change of pace in Mayfair – both in cuisine and cost. After days of pub food or expensive French brasseries, your palate will thank you for the chili, tamarind, and coconut flavors here. It’s a favorite of mine for a casual lunch with friends. Plus, you can brag that you discovered an authentic regional Indian gem right in the center of London! (If you love it, note that this is part of a small family of Rasa restaurants – the original Rasa N16 in Stoke Newington was one of London’s first vegetarian Indian restaurants, acclaimed by Time Out as among the best.)

Bond Street Kitchen – A Stylish Shopping Break

Tucked away on the second floor of Fenwick department store, Bond Street Kitchen is a lovely little secret. This modern British café-restaurant is literally inside the luxury store on New Bond Street, making it the perfect respite after a shopping spree or a midday museum visit. It’s synonymous with refined elegance and elevated service, as Fenwick proudly puts it, yet it’s also relaxed and not at all stuffy.

• Atmosphere: Picture a bright, contemporary dining room with a mix of chic café tables and comfy banquettes. Large windows might give you a peek over Bond Street. The vibe is calm and vibrant at the same time – a retreat from busy Mayfair, as they say. Shoppers drop by for a light lunch; locals have business meetings over coffee and salad. It feels exclusive (you had to know it was there) but also welcoming. I love the afternoon tea setup here – very elegant with tiered trays of treats, but in a quieter setting than the big hotels.
• Food & Drink:
  All-day dining is the theme. You can get a proper British breakfast (think avocado toast or eggs Benedict) from 10am, or a brunch of pancakes and smoothies on weekends.
  Lunch and afternoon tea are the highlights – the menu focuses on seasonal British fare. They have lovely salads (like a heritage beetroot salad with goat cheese), soups, and light mains such as fish cakes or grilled chicken. Portions are just right – enough to satisfy but not coma-inducing (after all, some shoppers still have more shopping to do!). Prices are moderate: expect ~£15 for a salad or sandwich, £20–£25 for mains. Afternoon tea sets are in the £30–£40 range (considerably less than big-name hotels). The wine list is curated with care – you can enjoy a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc with your lunch – and they do nice cocktails too. Don’t skip dessert; their British seasonal fruit crumbles and tarts are delightful.
• Practical Info:
  Opening hours align with Fenwick’s store hours: roughly Mon–Sat 10:00–19:00, Sun 12:00–17:00. So note that this is primarily a breakfast/lunch venue – it’s not open for late dinner. It makes an excellent stop for morning coffee and pastries, a mid-day meal, or a post-shopping afternoon tea (Fenwick’s closes by 7pm most days). You do not need to be shopping at the store to eat here – there’s a separate entrance to the restaurant as well.
  Reservations are accepted (and wise during Christmas shopping season), but walk-ins are fine on normal days. The dress code is “casual elegant” – coming in your shopping attire is perfectly okay; you’ll see everything from smart business dress to tourists in jeans.
• Why Visit: Bond Street Kitchen is truly the “perfect retreat from busy Mayfair” when you need a break. I recommend it for a light lunch or tea when you’re exploring the area’s many attractions (like the Royal Academy or shopping on Bond Street). It’s also a hidden gem for a quieter afternoon tea without the weeks-long waitlist of more famous venues. Treat yourself to a pot of Earl Grey and scones here, and you’ll feel like a pampered London insider who’s in on a secret spot.

The Greenhouse – (A Fond Memory of) Fine Dining Seclusion

Once upon a time, The Greenhouse was one of Mayfair’s most lauded restaurants, a two-Michelin-starred temple of gastronomy hidden away on a quiet mews. It offered an almost paradoxical experience: world-class haute cuisine in a tranquil, secret-garden setting. Though The Greenhouse permanently closed in 2020 due to financial difficulties amid the pandemic, its legacy in the culinary scene and what it represented merits inclusion – especially for foodies researching Mayfair’s dining history.

• Atmosphere (Past): Tucked down Hays Mews, The Greenhouse truly lived up to its name. Guests would walk through a landscaped garden path to reach the entrance, momentarily forgetting the city outside. Inside, the dining room was understated and elegant with large windows looking onto greenery. It was intimate and serene – you felt like you were in a wealthy friend’s private conservatory rather than smack in central London. Soft spoken service, plush chairs, and widely spaced tables made it ideal for a romantic dinner or discrete business meal. It was the kind of place where the excitement is all on the plate, while the room remains calm and composed.
• Food & Drink: The Greenhouse was known for its tasting menus that showcased inventive French-based cuisine with global influences. Under Chef Alex Dilling (in its final years) and predecessors, dishes were precise, artistic, and often astonishing in flavor. We’re talking things like hand-dived scallops with yuzu, or wagyu beef with Asian-inspired sauces – a true foodie adventure. The restaurant’s wine cellar was legendary, boasting over 3,000 wines and rare vintages (they consistently won awards for their wine list). A full tasting menu with wine pairing could easily run £200+ per person – this was a splurge destination.
• Practical Info: As mentioned, The Greenhouse closed and did not reopen after 2020’s lockdowns, which was confirmed by its chef on social media with great sadness. There is currently no restaurant operating in that exact space – it truly was wound up and emptied out. So, unfortunately, you cannot visit The Greenhouse now. However, if you’re looking for a similar experience in terms of fine dining in/near Mayfair, a few suggestions: Hélène Darroze at The Connaught (3 Michelin stars, French haute cuisine in a plush Mayfair hotel), Le Gavroche in Mayfair (London’s classic 2-star French restaurant by Michel Roux Jr.), or Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal (Alex Dilling’s new 2-star venture, not far in Piccadilly, carrying on his Greenhouse-level creativity). All of these require booking well ahead.
• Why Visit (Remember): The Greenhouse represents the high end of Mayfair dining that the area is famous for. While we can only reminisce about its perfect balance of secluded ambiance and gastronomic brilliance, it reminds us that Mayfair has been home to some of the world’s best restaurants. Its closure also highlights how challenging and changing the restaurant industry can be. For travelers, the lesson is: when you see a place that interests you, go while you can! And if you missed The Greenhouse era, you can still find incredible meals nearby – London’s fine dining scene is very much alive. (And hey, you saved a bit of cash – perhaps to spend on another Michelin-starred meal or some Champagne in Mayfair!)

St James’s Café – Coffee & Cake in the Royal Park

Sightseeing around Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade? Make a pit stop at St James’s Café, the modern café nestled in St James’s Park. This isn’t your typical high-street coffee shop – it’s a beautifully designed, glass-walled café in the middle of one of London’s prettiest parks, offering refreshments with a view of ducks, pelicans, and even a peek of the palace.

• Atmosphere: St James’s Café is a one-story pavilion with a curving wooden roof, perched by the edge of St James’s Park Lake. It blends into the greenery nicely. There’s ample outdoor seating on the patio, so on a sunny day you can sip your latte overlooking Duck Island and the waterfowl waddling by. Inside, the vibe is airy and family-friendly – big windows, casual picnic-style tables, and counters with pastries on display. You’ll often find a mix of tourists (maps and cameras on the table), local office workers on lunch break, and families resting after visiting the nearby Playground or Churchill War Rooms. It’s self-service to order, with buzzer devices to pick up your food when ready.
• Food & Drink: The menu covers all the basics you’d want from a park café – and then some. In the morning, they do breakfast items like porridge, bacon rolls, and croissants. Lunchtime brings sandwiches, salads, and hot options (the fish and chips here is surprisingly good for a park café). On cooler days, a hot soup or a classic Cornish pasty hits the spot. Prices are reasonable given the location – expect ~£5 for a pastry, £7–£10 for sandwiches or salads, £12–£15 for hot mains. But my absolute favorite is coming here for a cup of coffee or English breakfast tea and a slice of cake in the afternoon. They usually have Victoria sponge, chocolate fudge cake, and scones with jam and cream – perfect at around £4–£6. On a summer day, treat yourself to an ice cream from the cafe and enjoy it on the rooftop terrace (yes, they even have an accessible roof seating area!). And if you fancy something stronger, the café is licensed so you can have a cold beer or glass of wine as you relax.
• Practical Info: The café is open daily, roughly 8am until around dusk. Specifically, in summer it often opens by 8:00 and might serve until 20:00; in winter it may close earlier (around 16:00). The Royal Parks website notes St James’s Park itself opens 5am–midnight in summer, but the café keeps more limited hours aligned with daylight. No strict dress code – you’ll see people in everything from suits to shorts. Seating: plenty outside; inside can fill up on a rainy day. It’s a casual, walk-in spot – no reservations. One thing to note: watch out for the friendly but cheeky park wildlife – small birds or squirrels may eye your crumbs if you sit outdoors! Hold onto your sandwich.
• Why Visit: St James’s Café is all about the location, location, location. It’s a lovely pause in a busy tourist day. I often plan a walk through St James’s Park precisely so I can grab a coffee here and soak in the scenery – you might see the pelicans being fed at 2:30pm daily by Duck Island, or just enjoy the postcard-perfect view of Buckingham Palace across the lake. It’s also convenient – halfway between Westminster Abbey and Piccadilly, so it makes sense geographically to stop here. In a nutshell: when you need a break to rest your feet, refuel, and enjoy London’s natural beauty, this café is your friend.

(Side note: The current café building opened in 2019, replacing an older facility – and it’s run by Benugo, known for decent quality. They did a great job making it blend into the park while offering a top-notch park cafe experience.)

The Wolseley – Grand Cafe Glamour on Piccadilly

The Wolseley is a true London institution – a grand European-style café-restaurant that exudes 1920s glamour. Sitting right on Piccadilly next to The Ritz hotel, it’s the kind of place where you might spot celebrities, business titans, and tourists all indulging in the best eggs Benedict in town. Despite its high profile, The Wolseley manages to feel accessible and buzzy. It’s one of my absolute favorite venues for breakfast and afternoon tea in the city.

• Atmosphere: Walking into The Wolseley is like stepping into a luxurious time capsule. The interior is stunning – soaring high ceilings, marble floors, grand pillars and arches, with an elegant monochrome color scheme and art deco details. By day, light pours in; by night, chandeliers cast a warm glow. There’s a constant clink of silver teapots and a hum of polite conversation. The space used to be a 1920s car showroom turned bank, and since 2003 it’s been a restaurant – the restoration preserved the opulent features (so much so that they even sell postcards of the interior, which they’ll mail for you – a charming touch I’ve taken advantage of while lingering over coffee). Despite the grandeur, The Wolseley has a lively brasserie vibe – staff in sharp uniforms whisking about, tables packed close, and a no-photo policy to encourage people to live in the moment. You’ll feel a bit posh just being here, but it’s also bustling and unpretentious. Solo diners are common (especially at breakfast), families are welcome (they’ll provide highchairs and are very accommodating), and overall service is professional but warm.
• Food & Drink: The Wolseley serves food all day long: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and even a late-night menu. Every menu is extensive, filled with classic European and British dishes.
  • Breakfast (from 7am on weekdays, 8am weekends) is legendary – try the Eggs Benedict or Florentine, which are often called the best in London, or go English with a full fry-up or porridge with a dram of whiskey. They also have viennoiserie (croissants, etc.) and healthy options, but let’s be honest, you come here for the indulgence!
  • Lunch/Dinner: The all-day menu (from around 11:30am to midnight) features everything from light salads and omelettes to hearty staples like schnitzel, steak frites, and fish pie. There’s a nod to the grand European cafe tradition: you can get fresh oysters and caviar, or simpler fare like Welsh rarebit. The plat du jour changes daily (coq au vin, beef Wellington, etc.), and there are always vegetarian options (though The Wolseley’s menu leans classic, which means fewer veggie choices than some modern spots). For dessert, the champagne coupe filled with ice cream or a classic tarte au citron are winners. Pricing is mid-to-high: breakfast mains ~£10–£18, lunch/dinner mains ~£20–£35 (with steaks more), and afternoon tea £35+.
  • Afternoon Tea: Served daily between about 3–6pm, this is a treat – selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, pastries, and your choice of tea. It’s not as over-the-top as The Ritz’s tea, but it’s utterly delicious and in a beautiful setting (reserve it in advance for sure).
  • Drinks: The coffee here is top-notch (they famously serve it with little silver pots of hot milk), and the tea selection is extensive – when in England, do as they do and try some proper loose-leaf tea in a silver teapot. The bar also offers classic cocktails and a well-curated wine list. It’s lovely to start with a crisp white wine or Champagne if you’re here for a special dinner.
• Practical Info: Reservations are strongly recommended for breakfast, afternoon tea, or dinner – The Wolseley is perpetually popular. That said, if you walk in at off-peak times (e.g. 3pm for a late lunch or 4pm for tea), they might squeeze you in. They don’t enforce a formal dress code (smart casual is fine – you’ll see men in suits but also smart jeans and jackets). The atmosphere is upscale but not rigid – I once showed up slightly soaked from rain and was still treated like royalty. They are open 7 days a week: roughly 7:00–23:00 Mon-Fri, 8:00–23:00 Sat, 8:00–22:00 Sun (and note: they do not close between meal services, so you can often get food or at least tea service at odd hours). One interesting note: no photography inside – it’s meant to be an experience you remember with your eyes, which I find refreshing.
• Why Visit: The Wolseley is the quintessential London dining experience in my book. It’s perfect for so many scenarios: a power breakfast, a celebratory afternoon tea, a pre-theater dinner (it’s a short walk from West End theaters), or a late supper after an event. You go for the ambience and history – sitting under those chandeliers with the buzz of conversation around, you feel transported to another era. And importantly, the food consistently delivers, too. If it’s your first time, do breakfast or tea here – you’ll soak up the atmosphere and see why some folks describe The Wolseley as “worth visiting for its grand interior as well as its excellent Eggs Benedict”. I wholeheartedly agree!

El Pirata – Tapas Time in Mayfair

Tired of fancy prix-fixe meals? Yearning for a casual, hearty dinner with friends? El Pirata is your answer. This beloved Spanish tapas bar has been a fixture in Mayfair since 1994, earning a reputation as a “hidden gem” where you can kick back with Rioja and share plate after plate of authentic tapas. It’s tucked away on Down Street (a quiet side street near Green Park), and it truly feels like a slice of Spain in London.

• Atmosphere: El Pirata is unassuming from the outside – you’ll see a black awning and an entrance that leads you either to the street-level tapas bar or downstairs to a cellar dining room. The décor is classic tapas bar style: walls covered with framed photos and Spanish art, dark wood furnishings, and a little bit of bullfighting memorabilia here and there. The ground floor has a small bar and high-top tables, giving a buzzy vibe especially as locals pop in for a quick bite. Downstairs is more of a restaurant setting with closely packed tables in a cozy, dim space (you might feel like you’ve discovered a local spot in Madrid). The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly – many staff have worked here for ages, and they greet regulars like family. Expect a pleasant din of conversation, the clink of tapas plates, and perhaps some Spanish guitar music in the background. It gets lively (and a bit loud) when full – which is part of the fun.
• Food & Drink: The menu is extensive – over 60 tapas options! Tapas classics are all here: jamón ibérico (aged Spanish ham), patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce), gambas al ajillo (sizzling garlic prawns), tortilla española (potato omelette), chorizo in red wine, albondigas (meatballs)…the list goes on. They also do larger raciónes and sharing dishes like paella. Quality is great – it’s honest, traditional Spanish fare, nothing overly fancy and that’s why it’s beloved. Prices are surprisingly affordable for the area: most tapas are around £5–£8 each, so you can feast without breaking the bank (a rarity in Mayfair!). For example, a plate of padron peppers might be £6, garlic prawns £8, and a big portion of paella for two about £28. There are set menu deals too – notably a fantastic 2-course tapas lunch with a drink for about £10-£12 on weekdays, and a pre-theater menu under £20. Drinks: An impressive Spanish wine list (don’t sleep on the Rioja reserva by the glass), plenty of sherry, Spanish beers (San Miguel, Estrella), and of course they’ll whip up sangria if you ask. They even offer a bottomless sangria brunch on Saturdays – dangerously fun!
• Practical Info: El Pirata serves lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Saturday (closed Sunday, and currently also closed Mondays). Lunch service goes till 4pm; dinner from 5pm to around 10:30pm. It’s popular, so reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and especially if you want to sit in the cozy downstairs dining room. However, they do hold some tables for walk-ins at the bar area. I’ve found that dropping in around 6pm, you can sometimes snag a spot before the crowd. The dress code is smart casual – you can come as you are (you’ll see folks in suits unwinding after work and others in jeans). If you’re a larger group, consider booking the downstairs “Cellar” which they rent out for private parties – it’s great for birthdays.
• Why Visit: El Pirata is a breath of fresh air in fancy-pants Mayfair. It’s the place to go when you want a laid-back evening of sharing food, laughing loudly, and maybe staying for “just one more” plate of padron peppers. After days of formal dining, this is like visiting your friendly neighborhood tapas bar – generous hospitality and a fun, casual vibe. As one reviewer said, it makes you feel like you’re in Madrid rather than Mayfair. I wholeheartedly agree. Come for the authentic Spanish experience, stay for the great value and warm welcome. (And pro tip: end your meal with the crema catalana dessert and a glass of Pedro Ximénez sherry – heaven!)

Wild Honey (St James’s) – Modern Michelin Magic

Wild Honey brings modern Michelin-starred dining to St James’s with a decidedly unstuffy style. Chef Anthony Demetre made a name with the original Wild Honey in Mayfair for 12 years; in 2019 he relocated to a gorgeous venue at the Sofitel St James hotel (near Pall Mall), and Wild Honey St James was born. It has since earned a Michelin star (2022–2025) for its beautiful blend of British seasonal produce with French flair. If you’re looking to splurge on an exceptional meal in a contemporary setting, Wild Honey is a top pick.

• Atmosphere: The restaurant occupies a corner of the Sofitel’s ground floor, with tall windows overlooking Waterloo Place. The design by Jim Hamilton is striking and chic – think dark wood floors, leather banquettes, modern art on the walls, and a warm amber glow from stylish light fixtures. It feels polished but not overly formal. There’s a mix of hotel guests and destination diners. At lunch, natural light gives it an airy brasserie feel; at dinner, it dims to an intimate, upscale vibe. Tables are well spaced, and you have an immediate impression that you’re in capable, confident hands (the service is attentive yet easy-going). One corner hosts the Wild Honey Bar, which is actually a great spot on its own for cocktails or a pre-meal aperitif, operating later into the evening with its own small-plates menu.
• Food & Drink: Chef Demetre’s philosophy is to showcase the finest British ingredients with classical French techniques, creating dishes that are refined yet hearty. The menu evolves constantly with the seasons (often changing daily – they even print the date on it). You might find, for example, a starter of chilled Dorset crab with cauliflower, a main of Herdwick lamb with ratatouille, or a vegetarian composition like ricotta agnolotti with English peas. Flavors are bold and comforting – not molecular gastronomy or fussy tweezer food, but elegant plates that satisfy. They are also known for a spectacular Wild Honey ice cream dessert drizzled with honey – save room for that! Pricing: Lunch is a relative bargain – a 3-course set lunch is often around £45 (and sometimes they run a £29 two-course deal midweek). Dinner is à la carte or tasting menu; expect around £18–£22 for starters, £30–£40 for mains, or go for the tasting menu (~£95). Wine lovers will enjoy the thoughtful list and sommelier pairings, and the bar crafts excellent cocktails as well.
• Practical Info: Hours: Wild Honey serves lunch Wed–Fri (12:00–3:00pm) and dinner Tues–Sat (5:00–9:30pm). (They also do breakfast for hotel guests and a Sunday roast on occasion – check their schedule.) Dress code is smart casual – you’ll feel at ease in business attire or dressed-up casual wear. It’s Michelin-starred, but not jacket-and-tie required. Reservations are a must, especially for dinner; however, the restaurant can sometimes accommodate last-minute lunch bookings. If you can’t get a table, consider stopping by the bar on Wed–Sat, which is open noon to 11pm – you can enjoy a cocktail and bar snack there without a full reservation. The Sofitel St James is located on Pall Mall, a short walk from Piccadilly Circus or Trafalgar Square, so it’s convenient if you’re exploring central sights.
• Why Visit: Wild Honey hits that sweet spot (pardon the pun) of fine dining without stuffiness. You’ll get the whole Michelin-star experience – polished service, beautiful food, creative flavor combinations – but in a relaxed atmosphere where you can genuinely unwind and enjoy. It’s great for a romantic date or celebratory dinner. Also, if you were curious about London’s modern dining scene and want to try one of the newer Michelin-starred players that isn’t impossibly booked or pretentious, this is a fantastic choice. And yes, do try the wild honey ice cream with honeycomb – it’s a signature for a reason. As the team proudly states, Wild Honey offers “cuisine that blends British heritage with French flair”, and indeed, every bite here tells that story.

Additional Recommendations: Hotels & Nightlife

After indulging in Mayfair and St James’s fabulous food, you might be looking for a place to sleep it all off – or perhaps carry on the night with some drinks. Here are a few extra tips:

• Where to Stay: If you want to stay in the heart of the action, this area has some of London’s finest hotels. For sheer luxury and tradition, consider The Ritz London on Piccadilly (staying there is an experience of its own, with its Louis XVI décor and famous afternoon tea). Boutique luxury more your style? Brown’s Hotel (Albemarle Street) or The Connaught (Carlos Place) in Mayfair offer top-notch service with a bit more intimacy – plus, The Connaught houses the world-renowned Connaught Bar. For a hipper vibe, The May Fair Hotel (Stratton Street) is a contemporary choice popular with younger travelers and has a great location by Berkeley Street’s restaurants. And if you loved Wild Honey, note that Sofitel St James (Waterloo Place) is a gorgeous 5-star with a chic French feel – you could just take the lift upstairs after dinner! Keep in mind, hotels in this area are generally expensive (often £400+ a night), but the convenience and pampering can be worth it if it’s within budget.
• Nightlife & Bars: Mayfair and St James’s are known for refined nightlife – think swanky cocktail bars and private clubs. For a truly special cocktail, head to The Connaught Bar at The Connaught Hotel, frequently voted among the world’s best bars. Its martini trolley service is the stuff of legends – a bartender will mix a bespoke martini right at your table from a cart. Another iconic spot is Dukes Bar at Dukes Hotel, St James’s, where Ian Fleming supposedly got inspired for James Bond’s “shaken, not stirred” martini. Be warned: the martinis at Dukes are potent (there’s a two-drink per person policy!) but absolutely superb – a single, silky martini served icy cold from the freezer. If you’re into wine, 67 Pall Mall is a private wine club in St James’s that now has a public wine bar called Vagabond nearby, offering dozens of wines by the glass. For a classic British pub experience, try The Punchbowl on Farm Street – a cozy 18th-century pub once owned by director Guy Ritchie (it has great ales and a hearty pub menu). And for something quirky and fun, Mr. Fogg’s Residence in Mayfair (on Bruton Lane) is a Victorian-themed bar as if straight out of Around the World in 80 Days – taxidermy, globes, eccentric cocktails and often live music. It’s a hoot and good for small groups (reservation recommended). Nightclubs in Mayfair tend to be exclusive (Annabel’s, Tramp, etc., are members-only), but Tape London or Cirque le Soir are high-end clubs if you’re determined to dance in this postcode – do check entry requirements (and be prepared to dress to impress and spend).

No matter what you choose – a quiet cocktail or a lively bar – end your night knowing you’ve savored some of the best that Mayfair and St James’s have to offer. These neighborhoods mix old-world elegance with contemporary flair, and as a traveler, you get to enjoy that unique blend. Here’s to happy dining, drinking, and exploring in London!