Where to go on your next date in London

Who says a date has to be formal? If you’re expecting smart dresses and suits, you’re going to be disappointed, but if you seek out a connection you’ve come to the right place. Parlour charms with an easygoing atmosphere that will put you at ease and allow you to get to know your date on a more friendly level. The tables are intimate enough and surrounded by plants. Pair it all with the best of British cuisine – success guaranteed.

At Nippon, you can have a variety of sushi rice dishes that are designed to share – what better way to really get to know someone? Choose from small plates such as vegetable gyoza or shell crab and impress your date with your adventurous side. The venue welcomes guests with modern interior and friendly staff that will make the atmosphere just right.

When planning a date, you have to make sure the venue reflects your date’s personality. Do they enjoy vibrant environments or do they prefer a homely atmosphere? If it’s the latter, you should consider heading to Artist Residence. Expect to swoon over an airy space filled with modern art and a versatile drinks menu. Try the fancy house cocktails (Kill Bill, Airplane or Rose Collins will be your best bet). Your date doesn’t drink? No problem. There are a few delicious mocktails to choose from, too.

They say Italian food is a love language and if Lady and the Tramp is anything to go by, we agree! Sanzio is a bustling restaurant in the heart of Willesden Green, offering uncomplicated dishes from the Adriatic Sea. Whether you and your date want pizza, pasta or salads, Sanzio provides the lot, depending on what is fresh and in season. The team also creates up to 10 specials daily, so if you’re looking to upgrade your date night meal, look out for one of these; baked pepperoni sausages with chianti, honey and fresh thyme served with toasted ciabatta is something that’s appeared on the board before.

Located at the stunning Ram Quarter in Wandsworth, Mai Thai Deli aims to create delicious Thai dishes using locally sourced British produce. This second-generation approach combines the best of the culinary traditions with a new focus on ‘green’ values. This is a chilled space, which will allow you and your date to relax and enjoy the food as much as each other’s company.

Dinings’ philosophy has always been to source the freshest ingredients and create dishes that combine both traditional Japanese cuisines with modern European flavours. We’d highly recommend this place if you’re looking for a day-time date, although it’s only open for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays. Trust us though, it’s worth it! There’s a superb selection of hot and cold tapas, as well as some amazing sushi and sashimi.

If you’re looking for cocktails and small plates, then look no further. The Henderson Bar & Kitchen can be found in idyllic date spot, Notting Hill and is a great neighbourhood hangout for guests and locals alike. Why not share a charcuterie board over a bottle of white or red? Or you could really celebrate one another by ordering bubbles?

Authentique Epicerie & Bar is the brainchild of Amaury, Alexandre and Matthieu, three French guys who grew up with a passion for artisan food and drinks. Having lived abroad for years, they’ve witnessed a strong crave from local communities for craft products from France and the French speaking world. Authentique Epicerie & Bar is their way of combining their enthusiasm for Francophone Gastronomy with an urge to share and learn about the savoir-faire, the products, their creators and terroirs. As a result, every month you’ll have the chance to discover one of the 12 Francophone Regions that are being showcased through a carefully curated selection of food and drinks, as well as a monthly dinner designed by a different guest chef. This is a cosy and friendly bar with an always renewed selection of regional artisan products and drinks, that’s perfect for a classy date.

This quirkily named gastropub makes for a solid date spot. Serving a vast array of creative juices, food to inform even the most imaginative palettes, and the kind of roguish atmosphere that all serious pub-goers deserve, The Pregnant Man is casual, characterful and quirky enough to break the ice for any first date nerves.

Embark on a unique culinary journey that brings together Chileans, Londoners, travellers from beyond London, and every soul visiting (and dating in) Paddington! The Chilean corner, just steps away from the bustling station, invites you to immerse yourself in the authenticity of Chile in the heart of London. From artisanal bread to the irresistible empanadas, sweets, and the richness of Chilean wines, each flavour is a celebration that blends tradition and hospitality. Here, it’s not just about sharing dishes; it’s about sharing experiences that unfold amid laughter and conversations, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.