
03 Dec 2024
The French cooking style is known for utilising simple combinations of ingredients and producing rich flavours that are difficult to recreate without a sufficient level of expertise. This means that coming across a high-quality restaurant might be a challenge, but it also means that you’re guaranteed to have an amazing experience if you know where to look. And this is what we’re here for. Here’s a guide on where to go for French cuisine in London.
Gazette is filled with friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere. If you’re looking for a place to spend quality time with your family, head to south London to enjoy one of the most authentic French brasseries and more. Gazette is committed to creating a relaxing ambience while capturing the hallmark of French style; rustic interior and a classy menu that changes regularly to keep both new and returning customers satisfied. You can trust that every dish is carefully crafted and made of fresh ingredients; from beef tartare to snails platters and frogs’ legs, it can feed everyone’s adventurous side. The rule that the best things are saved for last is taken seriously here. All the desserts are to die for; think crème brûlée, ice cream, crepes and apple tart, just to name a few. Step out of the busy city life and enter into an oasis of calm – you won’t be disappointed!
Randall & Aubin is one of the city’s best French restaurants located in the heart of Soho – London’s epicentre of nightlife and eclectic dining. Despite the enormous competition, the venue successfully brings a touch of French chic to the table to make your experience extra special. Randall & Aubin is known for its love of creation, which is expressed in both dishes and atmosphere as it combines luxurious style and classy menu with an approachable service. The staff’s friendly attitude matches the upbeat music that makes the venue the best place for a catchup with high-quality food. The menu is mainly dedicated to seafood (think lobster, crab and prawn dishes) with a selection of various sides that can be sweetened by one of the delicious desserts on the menu (think sticky toffee pudding). Don’t hesitate to take a seat under the iconic disco ball and start your night out with a style.
Toulouse Lautrec is bound to meet your expectations with high-quality food and an atmosphere that caters to everyone’s needs. First, you can enjoy a hint of French charm in the restaurant located on the ground floor and once you’ve combated your food cravings, you can then head up to the second floor piano bar to satisfy your ears. There you can enjoy jazz music to spice up the evening and relax with a glass of wine or a cocktail. The menu is inspired by French cuisine and comes with vegetarian and vegan options. Examples include steak tartare, cassoulet, chicken chasseur, snails, guinea fowl and more. For dessert, we recommend the delicious shortcrust biscuit cheesecake or crème brûlée served with vanilla and fruits – yum. Oh, and if you’re in love with the 1920s Paris vibes as much as we are, you’ll have the most unforgettable evening.
Head chef Neil Borthwick serves up delicious, simple and seasonal food in this beautiful little dining room overlooking Soho. As well as its ideal central location, The French House boasts an amazing menu, alongside its ‘Steak Frites Thursdays’ menu, which offers prime cuts served with frites, green salad and horseradish.
La Petite Auberge in Islington is an authentic, rustic bistro that conjures up all of the charm and atmosphere of a traditional French tavern. Make sure you try the creperie for delicious, fast French food. It’s the perfect choice for your next light lunch!
Bistro Aix is a cosy and romantic French restaurant in Crouch End. Aix is a chef-owned, independent restaurant offering a French menu of timeless favourites in an artful setting. Velvet drapes, lush foliage and sprawling Renaissance-style murals deck out the two bohemian dining rooms. An intimate private dining room seats up to 28 for private functions. The menu highlights classic and luxurious French cuisine, with all its vibrant and earthy authenticity. This is one of North London’s hidden gems.