One of the most desirable places in London, St. John’s Wood is a wonderful neighbourhood with cosmopolitan charm, quiet leafy streets, and elegant homes. It’s also just minutes from central London. Just to the north west, this famously affluent area is steeped in rich history and cultural significance, and though it’s massively popular with residents and visitors alike, it doesn’t feel like a tourist trap. Watching the world go by like a local is perfectly possible - but there are some rare old sights too. Regent’s Park, just to the south, is stunning, and also home to the incredible London Zoo. But it’s two other attractions that really ignite the passions: Lord’s, one of the most famous cricket grounds in the world, and Abbey Road Studios, a legendary recording studio where The Beatles recorded many of their albums (not forgetting the instantly recognisable Abbey Road zebra crossing nearby; the perfect photo opportunity). Amid the buzz of such iconic places, and a pretty high street loaded with boutique shops and luxury brands, St. John’s Wood is underpinned by a thriving and diverse culinary scene, with a broad range of classy options, especially when it comes to fine dining of the highest standard. Here is our pick of the best.
SOUTINE
Despite the unquestionable beauty of St John’s Wood, and London itself, walking through the doors of Soutine whisks you off in an instant to another stunning capital: Paris. The decor and ambience of this popular French bistro is such that walking inside makes you feel as if you’re strolling along a Parisian boulevard. This inviting space is both decadent and relaxing, and the cuisine and beverages are as you would expect from a restaurant that trades in the best of what France can put on a plate (or inside a glass). There are classic dishes, such as steak tartare, ‘All Day Eggs’, and duck confit, while a prix fixe menu is also available. The focus is on traditional cooking techniques and fresh, top-quality ingredients - with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner - while desserts at Soutine are quintessentially French - tarte tatin, crème brûlée, profiteroles and so on. The large wine list, naturally, is predominantly French: expertly curated to pair perfectly with your perfect food.
THE IVY
Established in 1917 in the heart of London’s Theatreland, The Ivy is the grand old dame of legendary London dining. Known the world over for its A-list celebrity clientele, especially in recent decades, it was, at times, famously hard to get a table there. But The Ivy has now spread its wings beyond its original iconic restaurant in the West End, and a super-stylish outpost in St. John’s Wood has proven to be a perfectly natural fit. Replicating the high-end dining experience that helped establish its reputation, The Ivy St John’s Wood is a suitably refined and relaxed all-day brasserie with lucious interiors and art installations that pay serious homage to the brand’s art-deco stylings. The food is just as satisfying: a range of menus that blend classic British dishes with European influences, with signature dishes including Shepherd’s Pie, The Ivy Hamburger and Dover Sole. The standout dessert? Easy. The famous Chocolate Bombe.
CROCKER’S FOLLY
A breathtaking building of late Victorian splendour, Crocker’s Folly was initially opened as ‘The Crown Hotel’ in 1898 - intended as a luxurious venue to serve the influx of passengers anticipated with the construction of a hulking new railway terminus in the area. But Frank Crocker got the location wrong - it was built at Marylebone - hence his ‘folly. More than 125 years later, lovers of sublime Lebanese food (and spectacular architecture and design) are the beneficiaries. The restaurant and pub shimmers with old-world luxury, and people’s plates adorned with authentic Middle Eastern dishes such as hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, and grilled meats. The ingredients are notable for their freshness and exquisite quality, while the service is immaculate. Overall, a dining experience full of grandeur and flavour.
OSLO COURT
Clasped ever-close to the hearts of its faithful followers, Oslo Court is charm personified. Situated within a residential building of the same name, it's something of a throwback to a bygone era - in the most positive fashion imaginable. With wonderful French and European cuisine, including dishes like Beef Wellington and Crêpes Suzette, the interior of Oslo Court is something of a glorious time capsule from the 1970s. This ‘one-off’ of a restaurant has been run with dedication by the same family for decades and it shows: the atmosphere is celebratory, the service impeccable, and people flock here to have a great time.
CINDER
With a chef-owner who used to cook up a storm at a venue as esteemed as The Ritz, Cinder boasts some serious pedigree. But while the cuisine on offer at this evocative Mediterranean restaurant on St John's Wood high street feels high end, the atmosphere is that of a cosy and lively local enterprise (rather than a high-ranking central London hotel). The open kitchen allows diners to watch as their meals are prepared over the wood-fired grill, where charred meats, grilled vegetables, and innovative small plates are rustled up with flair and passion. Seasonal produce is very high on the agenda here, and reservations are often recommended.
Given the allure of St. John’s Wood as a neighbourhood, it’s no surprise that the food scene is competitive, thriving, and remorselessly creative. Among the international fine dining and contemporary options we have listed, there are many superb restaurants beyond - high standards are the benchmark from which to go even higher. Allied to the raft of outstanding eateries of a more formal nature, there is also a glut of splendid cafes, delicatessens and grocery stores in the neighbourhood, catering for every taste and whim imaginable, whether it’s health-conscious salads and a fresh smoothie, or pure patisserie indulgence. In St. John’s Wood, when it comes to culture, ambiance - and food - you’re somewhat spoilt for choice.
