Credit: billy Bolton, anton rodriguez, sam harris, rockwell, charlie mckay
Stylist Loves
9 solo-friendly dining spots in London to try that won’t charge you extra
By Amy Beecham
2 years ago
3 min read
Enjoy a delicious meal at one of these London eateries, no ‘single supplement’ in sight.
By now, you’ve probably heard the news (or you’ll almost certainly have seen the backlash) that a certain Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair will begin charging solo diners the same total cost as a pair of diners. Let us be clear: solo dining – solo anything, really – is never something to be ashamed of. In fact, we should be celebrating the enjoyment of spending time alone. After all, a good meal should be a treat, whether enjoyed with company or not.
The requirements of a great independent dinner are, of course, good food, but it also helps to have communal benches or counter seating that doesn’t draw too much attention to the fact that you’re flying solo.
So next time you take yourself out, be sure to try one of these nine spots across the city that are single-friendly and certainly won’t charge you more.
Rockwell
Buzzy hotel bar and restaurant Rockwell is the perfect place for people watching with a glass of something cold in hand. Grab a stool at the bar or a booth overlooking Trafalgar Square to enjoy expert cocktails and dishes. Better yet, it’s currently offering all solo diners a drink on arrival.
Address: 2 Spring Gardens, St. James’s, London SW1A 2TS
Cento
Over in South Kensington, Cento – the Italian restaurant within the elegant confines of 100 Queen’s Gate Hotel – is welcoming solo diners with an aperitivo on arrival. Cento is a haven of floral arrangements and plush furnishings with a menu featuring the very best of traditional Italian cuisine. Sit back with a glass of wine and be transported straight to Italy.
Address: 100 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5AG
The Counter
Address: 108 Golborne Rd, London W10 5PS
The Libertine
Address: 1a Royal Exchange, Cornhill, London, EC3V 3LL
Pastaio
Pastaio’s buzzy atmosphere makes it a really welcoming space for a quick bite to eat, whether that’s a couple of plates of antipasti (like its ’nduja toastie with mozzarella and honey) or a seasonal dish made with fresh pasta.
Address: 19 Ganton St, Carnaby, London W1F 9BN
Koya City
At Koya City you’ll find fresh, chewy udon and plenty of solo diners enjoying comforting bowls in a relaxed setting. What more could you want from a post-work meal?
Address: 10-12 Bloomberg Arcade, London EC4N 8AR
Colonel Saab
With moody lighting and a range of private and cosy areas for solo diners to enjoy, Colonel Saab combines creative Indian cooking with an elevated dining experience. Certainly worth the splurge, especially on yourself.
Address: 193-197 High Holborn, London WC1V 7BD
Lisboeta
With a new dedicated lunch menu for the counter seats featuring some Portuguese favourites, Lisboeta is perfect for a solo lunch in the city.
Address: 30 Charlotte St., London W1T 2NG
Elliot’s
Address: 12 Stoney St, London SE1 9AD
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