About Time: Where To Find a Taste of Paris in London This OlympicsBy Alicia Grimshaw
Sacre bleu! The Olympics are here already and in full swing (rumours are the opening ceremony may still be going from Friday). Whether you’re a casual watcher or a certified expert on the triple jump, it’s fair to say Paris fever has taken the world by storm. For those of us who can’t justify the cost of the Eurostar right now, we’ve rounded up the best French spots in London for all things continental. Tres Bon!
1. Brasserie Zédel, Piccadilly
The Run-Down: Smack bang in the middle of Piccadilly, Brasserie Zédel brings the charm of a classic Parisian brasserie to life. Known for its 10/10 vibe, the restaurant serves up traditional French fare that’s both delicious and easy on the wallet. To celebrate the Olympics, they’re rolling out a special ‘Go for Gold’ speedy set menu, perfect for grabbing a quick bite between theatre shows or a speedy lunch break.
Where: 20 Sherwood St, London W1F 7ED
2. La Maison Ani, Knightsbridge
The Run-Down: La Maison Ani is the elegant eatery and boulangerie from Evgeny Kuzin and Chef Izu Ani that brings the timeless allure of France to Knightsbridge. The all-day dining experience focuses on signature dishes highlighting both the rustic charm of the French countryside and the elegance of Parisian bistros. Mornings are all about fresh artisanal bread, viennoiseries and pastries served from the boulangerie, and by afternoon light the kitchen team knock out seasonal lunches ft meats, cheeses, breads – you name it.
Where: The Carlton Tower, 1 Cadogan Pl, London SW1X 9PY
3. Bellanger, Islington
The Run-Down: Looking over Islington Green, Bellanger, the much-loved neighbourhood restaurant, relaunched in June 2023, and thank goodness it did – we can’t get enough. Bringing a French-style Brasserie setting to North London, expect a plethora of classic French dishes accompanied by refreshing aperitif bursting with Southern Mediterranean flavours, not to mention the large terrace which is perfect in the summer months for pre-and post-supper drinks.
Where: 9 Islington Grn, London N1 2XH
4. Soutine, St John’s Wood
The Run-Down: Inspired by the grand boulevard cafés of Paris and the artistic flair of St John’s Wood, Soutine is your new go-to neighbourhood hangout from the Wolseley Hospitality Group. With its laid-back vibe, this spot serves up a classic French Café menu all day long. Think traditional bistro favourites like Steak Tartare, Coq au Riesling, Tarte au Citron, and those irresistible Chantilly Cream Profiteroles.
Where: 60 St John’s Wood High St, London NW8 7SH
5. Henri, Covent Garden
The Run-Down: Renowned Chef Jackson Boxer and the hospitality pioneers behind the Experimental Group are behind Parisian-inspired restaurant, Henri. Snacks and entrees feature Boxer’s take on Parisian classics like the Fried Pieds de Cochon with agen prune and beer mustard; a Seaweed Canelé served with crème crue and trout roe; Grilled Snails with green garlic and veal rice; alongside Globe Artichoke with chopped boiled eggs and anchovy.
Where: 14 – 15 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8QH
Photo credit: @candidsbyjo
6. Le Deli Robuchon, Piccadilly
The Run-Down: With locations in Piccadilly, and last year the opening of Kings Road, Le Deli Robuchon is a casual yet sophisticated all-day dining deli, serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Serving a selection of freshly baked French Patisserie products from the Le Deli Bakery, plus there’s Choquettes, Croque Monsieur, and a choice of cheeses and charcuterie.
Where: 82 Piccadilly, London W1J 8JA