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Everyone has a different idea of what the perfect setting for a Valentine’s Day meal looks like. But whatever you envision, this is undoubtedly an occasion where the ambiance is equally as important as the food itself. So we’ve partnered with South Western Railway to round up some of the most romantic restaurants in London to make your V-day dinner extra special.
1. Luca
88 St John St, London EC1M 4EH
Clearly, there’s no shortage of excellent Italian restaurants in London, but that’s why special attention must be paid when one manages to set itself apart from the rest. Exuding just the right level of sultry chic-ness demanded for a Valentine’s outing, you’ll understand why Londoners have fallen head over heels for Luca. Once seated, you can roam freely through a menu of standout, sumptuous dishes. Each brings something new and exciting to the table, but all remain faithful to the Italian cooking we know and love.
2. Forza Wine
National Theatre SE1 9PX
After a hugely successful opening run in Peckham, it was only right that Forza Wine go forth and prosper in pastures new. And that they have, taking the Peckham restaurant’s stunning rooftop, and raising it one river view – above the National Theatre of all places. As you admire the shimmering Thames and watch the world go by, you can graze on utterly delicious, Mediterranean small plates. The menu changes with the seasons but the enjoyment factor never falters - you will love the food, wine and cocktails here almost as much as the person eating them with you.
3. Sessions Arts Club
4th Floor, Farringdon, 24 Clerkenwell Green, EC1R 0NA
If you’re splashing out on a decadent Valentine’s Day meal with your significant other, you want to feel as though you’re being taken on a journey. And this absolutely should not be limited to your taste buds. Whether it be to another country or another decade, there is nothing more romantic than being transported out of your immediate reality - even if it is just for a couple of hours. Located on the fourth floor of a Grade II* listed old court house, Sessions Arts Clubretains the glamour and drama of its former life thanks to its magnificently preserved architectural features. Impossibly high ceilings, sweeping staircases, corniced archways, a mezzanine dining area and a vibrant menu are just a few things that make this such a wonderful place to dine.
4. Trattoria Brutto
35-37 Greenhill Rents, EC1M 6BN
In the spirit of being transported elsewhere, we couldn’t round up London’s most romantic restaurants without making a stop in the city’s quintessential Florentine trattoria. Everything about Trattoria Brutto feels effortless, from the quaint, dimly lit interiors to the traditional menu – but we’re confident nothing this good happens by chance. We’d also be doing you a disservice if we didn’t forewarn you that tables are like gold dust, so we’d advise booking as far in advance as possible. But once you’ve secured your spot, all that’s left to do is enjoy holiday-levels-of-indulgence dining with your partner in crime.
5. Brunswick House
30 Wandsworth Road, SW8 2LG
Seeing as it’s a special occasion, we thought we’d throw another Grade II* listed building into the mix, Brunswick House. And this one comes in the form of a Georgian mansion, which now boasts a café, cocktail bar, restaurant, outdoor terrace and a historic vault for drinking, dining and celebrating. Once you’ve finished feasting your eyes on the dazzling canopy of chandeliers overhead, allow the retro yet elegant menu to sweep you off your feet – then raise a toast to feeling loved up with a Good Thyme Gimlet or a Butter Washed Fig Old Fashioned.
6. Wes and Sandy’s pick of the week
46 Lexington Street, W1F 0LP
The round-up wouldn’t be complete without a recommendation from South Western Railway’s winged friends, Wes and Sandy. Whilst Wes likes to keep a bird’s eye view of London’s best pubs, clubs and music venues, Sandy spends her time tuning into the city’s hottest new restaurants and upcoming cultural events.
But one thing they can always agree on is a cosy dining affair. Snug candlelit tables and infectiously intimate vibe make Andrew Edmunds more than deserving of its place on our list of London’s most romantic restaurants. It’s no wonder this stripped-back 18th century townhouse has stolen the hearts of Londoners for more than a decade. Aside from the interiors and the unfussy, well-executed food, the more than fairly priced wine list is just another reason why this rustic, bistro-style restaurant is the object of affection of so many.
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