Best Contemporary European Restaurants in Highbury/Islington

64 restaurants available nearby

1. The Nook

4.9

Exceptional(166)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary european • Islington

Booked 1 time today

Wine Bar with Contemporary European Food, Varied Wine List, Coffee and Craft Beer

2. Quaglino's

4.3

Awesome(2549)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary european • Green Park

Booked 48 times today

An iconic restaurant & bar synonymous with style and glamour; hidden within historic St James’s and offering live music seven days a week.The menu is a perfect canon of European classics, all made using the highest quality British ingredients. Bursting with Iconic heritage, Quaglino's is hidden in the heart of St James's and is the ideal place to indulge in contemporary European food, legendary cocktails and London finest live entertainment.

3. Fitz's Brasserie

4.5

Awesome(549)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary european • Bloomsbury

Booked 15 times today

Fitz's Brasserie in Bloomsbury, London, is a beacon for steak lovers, offering a culinary experience that far exceeds expectations. Celebrated for its innovative approach, the restaurant merges traditional British cuisine with modern flair, ensuring each steak is not just cooked but crafted. Diners rave about the quality and presentation, with one patron noting, "Both of the dishes we ordered were excellent. My husband said it was one of the best meals that he had during our London visit." This establishment not only promises a great meal but delivers an unforgettable dining atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and exquisite steak.

A photo of The Lore of the Land restaurant

4. The Lore of the Land

4.7

Exceptional(823)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary european • Fitzrovia

Booked 18 times today

At The Lore of the Land in Fitzrovia, London, the essence of exceptional Gastro Pub cuisine comes to life. Known for its innovative approach, this pub delights diners with contemporary English dishes crafted by the talented Head Chef Michal Kaszuba. The menu, freshly prepared to mirror the seasons, ensures every ingredient shines, particularly noted during their legendary Sunday roasts. Patrons rave about the "insanely good food" and the "exceptional service," highlighting dishes like the juicy sirloin steak and tender pork loin as "some of the best we've eaten." The ambiance, enhanced by original artwork and an open kitchen, complements the culinary experience, making every visit memorable. Whether it's for a casual drink at their copper-topped bar or a full dining experience upstairs, The Lore of the Land stands out as a beacon of Gastro Pub excellence in London.

A photo of CORE by Clare Smyth restaurant

5. CORE by Clare Smyth

4.9

Exceptional(3489)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary european • Notting Hill

Booked 11 times today

CORE by Clare Smyth in Notting Hill, London, stands as a beacon of Contemporary European cuisine, infused with a distinctive British flair. Since its opening in 2017, the restaurant has captivated diners with its "sublime" and "meticulously put together" dishes, as one patron noted, emphasizing the harmonious blend of flavors. The dedication to excellence is palpable, with guests praising the "exceptional food and service" and an ambiance that marries elegance with comfort. Reviews consistently highlight the "thoughtful food" and the skilled staff that makes each dining experience memorable. CORE by Clare Smyth is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of contemporary culinary artistry, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the pinnacle of fine dining in London.

A photo of The Northall at Corinthia London restaurant

6. The Northall at Corinthia London

4.8

Exceptional(2737)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary european • Covent Garden

Booked 2 times today

At The Northall in Corinthia London, located in the vibrant Covent Garden, diners are treated to an exquisite Mediterranean culinary experience that effortlessly combines quality, authenticity, and creativity. The restaurant's seasonal menu, crafted under the guidance of award-winning Executive Chef André Garrett, highlights the best of Mediterranean flavors, ensuring every dish celebrates the essence of its high-quality ingredients. Glowing reviews continually praise The Northall for its "absolutely stunning" meals and "impeccable service," with one guest noting it’s the "Best place to taste yummy and delicious food." Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful dinner, The Northall promises an unforgettable dining adventure in the heart of London.

7. Bar Crispin

4.4

Awesome(210)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary european • Soho

Booked 5 times today

Bar Crispin, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Soho, London, is a delightful showcase of Modern European cuisine. The restaurant is renowned for its broad European-inspired menu, which emphasizes locally and sustainably sourced ingredients. Patrons rave about the "unbelievable mix of flavours and textures," with standout dishes like crispy polenta, organic British vegetables, and sustainable seafood. The ambiance, described as cozy yet lively, complements the exquisite food offerings. Praises like "the food was very delicious" and "we had to have the menu explained to us on arrival" underscore the authenticity and innovation of their cuisine. With glowing reviews celebrating both the quality of food and the exceptional service, Bar Crispin is a prime destination for anyone seeking an authentic Modern European dining experience in the heart of London.

8. German Gymnasium

4.2

Awesome(2256)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary european • King's Cross

Booked 50 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of King's Cross, London, German Gymnasium stands out as a beacon of German cuisine. Renowned for its authentic and meticulously crafted German dishes, the restaurant offers a delightful Mittel-European inspired menu that dazzles diners from breakfast through to late-night dining. Patrons rave about the "delicious and high-quality ingredients" and commend the "impeccable" cooking that brings German culinary traditions to life. Highlights include traditional favorites such as schnitzel and bratkartoffeln, complemented by a selection of German beers. The atmosphere is described as "fantastic" with "great ambiance," making German Gymnasium a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine taste of Germany in London.

9. Franks Canteen

4.9

Exceptional(308)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary european • Highbury

Booked 3 times today

Franks Canteen, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Highbury, East London, is a true gem for lovers of authentic British cuisine. Celebrated for its dedication to using locally sourced ingredients, this delightful spot offers a modern twist on British classics, resulting in a menu that's both inventive and deeply satisfying. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one customer declaring it "the best bacon sandwich I’ve ever had" and another praising the "out of this world food." The restaurant's weekly specials, like the celebrated chicken & Monterey Jack chimichanga, consistently receive high marks for creativity and flavor. Whether it's their acclaimed breakfasts, bustling brunches, or the intimate dinner atmosphere, Franks Canteen embodies the quintessence of British dining with a modern flair, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking culinary excellence in London.

A photo of Frog by Adam Handling restaurant

10. Frog by Adam Handling

4.9

Exceptional(3354)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary european • Covent Garden

Booked 18 times today

Frog by Adam Handling in Covent Garden, London, is a Michelin-starred gem celebrated for its exceptional Contemporary British cuisine. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience where each dish tells a story, often drawing from Chef Adam's fond memories or inspirations. This narrative approach to cuisine is not only innovative but deeply personal, making each meal an emotional journey. Guests rave about the "amazing food, brilliantly presented" and the "unbelievable food and experience," highlighting the attentive service and the theatricality of dining close to the kitchen action. The quality of Frog's offerings is consistently likened to those of higher Michelin-starred establishments, with reviews frequently noting the creativity and skill evident in every dish. Whether it's the tasting menu's exquisite flavor combinations or the thoughtful wine pairings, Frog by Adam Handling stands out as a pinnacle of Contemporary British dining, deserving of its accolades and highly recommended for anyone seeking a memorable culinary adventure.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

O
Oluwabunmi
London •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Everything about the service was perfect. The only let down was the food - I ordered the Mauve aubergine, smoked coconut yoghurt, fragrant sticky rice. The sticky rice was cooked to perfection but the mauve aubergine with the smoked coconut yogurt wasn’t that great. I’ve had better meals at the restaurant. Aside from that the staffs are amazing and friendly. I will still return and try another meal.
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Fitz's BrasseriePrice: Expensive• Contemporary European• Bloomsbury
•
4.5
C
Chloe
London •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Amazing restaurant! Enjoyed every single second! We were 45 minutes early and they very kindly seated us straight away. The service was swift and professional. The food was fresh, tasty and a bit different. It was delicious! The buzz created by the cafe downstairs really appealed to us. We sat in the ring room upstairs. Not sure if it would be a little noisy if you sat downstairs. It all helped create a wonderful atmosphere though! Not the cheapest menu... But the food is worth every penny! We will definitely return!
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German GymnasiumPrice: Expensive• German• King's Cross
•
4.2
E
Ed
London •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Second visit and will undoubtedly visit again! Consistently great dishes and a relaxed evening vibe. Perfect.
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Franks CanteenPrice: Expensive• European• Highbury
•
4.9
J
jane
London •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Loved the experience but meal was a bit ruined by adding heavily fishy broccoli as a side to a beef cheek dish. We didn’t realise the side came with the fishy topping. :( Thought the portions of main were small for price point. Charming staff and really glad we visited! Thanks!
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The Lore of the LandPrice: Very Expensive• Gastro Pub• Fitzrovia
•
4.7
L
Liam
Essex •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 7, 2024
Great restaurant / wine bar, great vibe and great staff
More info
The NookPrice: Expensive• Contemporary European• Islington
•
4.9

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Highbury/Islington

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Best Contemporary European Restaurants in Highbury/Islington

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64 restaurants available nearby

1. The Nook

2. Quaglino's

3. Fitz's Brasserie

4. The Lore of the Land

5. CORE by Clare Smyth

6. The Northall at Corinthia London

7. Bar Crispin

8. German Gymnasium

9. Franks Canteen

10. Frog by Adam Handling

See what locals rave about

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