It is an indisputable fact that Great Britain produces some of the best beef on earth. The country’s lush green pastures provide an ideal environment for cattle grazing and as a result the quality of the meat is much higher than cattle that are primarily grain fed. The meat is more tender and provides a distinct flavour. Farmers have honed their skills over many generations to ensure the best product is available.
The Top Steak Restaurants in London
1. Hawksmoor - Bank, Canary Wharf, Covent Garden, Knightsbridge, London Bridge, Spitalfields, Piccadilly Circus
The steakhouse, which now has nine outposts across London, has had such roaring success it has just opened its first restaurant in New York. Each of the restaurants have been met with popular acclaim with the famed restaurant critic, Jay Rayner, labelling a Hawksmoor steak as “the best steak I have ever eaten in this country”, high praise indeed.
Hawksmoor Knightsbridge is arguably the best of their London restaurants and is a sight to behold; beautiful art deco interiors and low lighting create the perfect ambience to enjoy their notoriously good steaks. Steak is their speciality, and they consistently deliver excellence, but there are plenty of other offerings on their menu. The Vietnamese-dressed oysters and caviar are a wonderful addition to a truly decadent evening.
2. Zelman Meats - Harvey Nicholls, Knightsbridge
There is much to love about Zelman Meats located in the iconic department store Harvey Nichols. Zelman Meats is known for its vast selection and delicious variety of steaks available from around the world cooked on the grill by their sublime chefs and served ‘family style’ on decadent serving platters. Serving steaks from around the world there is an abundance on offer from the classic Ribeye to the famous slow cooked ribs to the big cuts on the bone which have been dry-aged for 35 days for the most exquisite depth of flavour. The restaurant also has halal options.
There’s no better way to work up your appetite than a spot of shopping in one of the greatest shopping destinations in the world so why not walk around Harvey Nicholls and finish up with a cocktail and a steak at this high-class venue which offers some of the best steak in London.
3. Aragawa - Mayfair
Argawa is a Tokyo based restaurant which has recently opened in Mayfair to much fanfare, largely due to the cost, where steaks are available for upwards of £500. Since the original restaurant opened in Tokyo in 1967 it has long been known as the most expensive steak in the world and now it has finally come to London, Argawa is the king of fine dining when it comes to steak. Set within a townhouse on Claridges Street, the restaurant spans two floors, in a decadent setting of hand-painted red panels with red velvet benches.
If you prefer to dine in privacy there is a private dining room which seats 12 and over 1000 bottles of wine to choose from. No detail has been overlooked in this sumptuous setting. The open kitchen means you can watch the master of steak at work where they expertly prepare steaks made from Tajima beef, which is a strain of wagyu cattle.
The quality of the meat is unparalleled and rich with so much flavour, you do not need to enjoy it with a sauce, it is perfect as it is. Never mind the best steak in London, this is arguably the best steak on earth.
4. Smith and Wolensky - Central London
At Smith and Wolensky you are instantly wowed before you have even taken your seat. The restaurant, known for serving “the best steak in America” sets the tone upon arrival. Deep autumnal colours, luxurious deep brown leather chairs, rich wooden floor and Art Deco tiled walls transport you to a world of seamless sophistication.
The restaurant boasts an extensive steak range catering to all tastes with offerings from Ireland to the USA and the staff are experts at helping you select the best steak for you. Smith and Wolensky have their own butcher and dry-age room on site unlike many other steak restaurants in London and you can taste the care and effort that has gone into creating their delicious offerings.
The portion sizes are generous and there is a focus on sharing platters which makes for a social dining experience. The restaurant also has a varied cocktail list and a vast array of deserts to ensure you are fully sated after your meal.
5. Boisdale - Belgravia
At Boisdale, Scottish decor, meets live jazz music, and an impressive wine list, all conveniently located in a beautiful quiet street in Belgravia. The menu focuses on Scottish cuisine and alongside traditional offerings of smoked salmon, game meats and haggis there is also an extensive steak menu, served alongside exquisite vegetables with a seasonal focus. Boisdale of Belgravia offers highland fun on the cobblestone streets of London, a must visit when in London.
What makes Boisdale unique is Boisdale of Belgravia’s dedicated cigar terrace where you can enjoy a luxury cigar after you have dined. Smoking a cigar on the terrace having enjoyed an evening of fine dining and soulful jazz transports customers back to a simpler, sophisticated time and for whisky enthusiasts, it can be enjoyed alongside one of their extensive options of Scotch whiskies.
One of the many reasons people travel from across the world to visit London is the way it seamlessly blends different cultures, traditions and nationalities. London’s steak restaurants are a byproduct of this; they reflect a city that embraces and prides itself on tradition but is constantly evolving and updating. They symbolise what the city has to offer, no matter who you are or where you come from there is something available for you.
