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Eating out Loud: What are the best lively restaurants in London?

If you’re tired of the same dining experience, we’ve got just the ticket. 

Get ready to plunge headfirst into a world of culinary excitement, where tables aren’t just for eating, but for dancing, singing, and leaving you with that delightful sense of “What’s next?” 

Join us as we visit the most electrifying dining destinations in our city, where the only rule is to have an unforgettable time. Are you prepared to unearth the capital’s best, fun-filled restaurants? If so, then let’s discover the best lively restaurants in London!

Quaglino’s

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Location: 16 Bury St, St. James’s, London SW1Y 6AJ, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7930 6767

Pricing: £££

Website

Quaglino’s boasts a history that’s as rich as its flavours. Established in 1929, this iconic eatery has been a rendezvous for the crème de la crème of society for nearly a century. The moment you walk through its doors, you’re stepping into a place with an ambience steeped in stories.

Quaglino also keeps the energy flowing with live bands and performers. Whether it’s jazz, soul, or something a bit more contemporary, the music perfectly complements the dining experience. 

The Windmill Soho

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Location: 17-19 Great Windmill St, London W1D 7JZ, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7183 2199

Pricing: £££

Website

The entertainment factor is on point at The Windmill Soho. Live music takes centre stage at this place, adding to the lively vibe. You might just find yourself tapping your foot while savouring your meal.

You didn’t think we’d talk about a lively restaurant without mentioning cocktails, did you? The Windmill Soho has a well-stocked bar that knows how to whip up a mean cocktail. From classic concoctions to their signature drinks, you’re in for a sip of something special.

The Box

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Location: 11-12 Walker’s Ct, London W1F 0SD, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7434 4374

Pricing: £££

Website

You know you’re in for something extraordinary when the restaurant’s website comes with a warning for its explicit content. The Box is an immersive experience that blends cabaret, theatre, and fine dining. 

From jaw-dropping performances to quirky surprises, you’ll be on the edge of your seat, quite literally.

The Box is known for its boundary-pushing, often risqué performances that are part of the dining experience. Burlesque, circus acts, and more will keep your senses tingling throughout the night.

Circus

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Location: 27-29 Endell St, London WC2H 9BA, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7420 9300

Pricing: £££

Website

The beauty of Circus is that you never quite know what to expect. Performances change regularly, ensuring that each visit feels fresh and exciting. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself saying, “You won’t believe what I saw at Circus last night”.

Circus also hosts exclusive events, making it an excellent choice for special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a bachelorette party, or simply a night out with friends, they know how to make it unforgettable.

Beach Blanket Babylon

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Location: 45 Ledbury Rd, London W11 2AA, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7229 2907

Pricing: £££

Website

​​The moment you walk through the doors of Beach Blanket Babylon, you’re transported to a world where Victorian elegance meets Bohemian chic. It’s a visual feast, with grandeur around every corner. 

The place has a lot of hidden nooks and crannies. It’s a sprawling space with surprises around every corner. You might find yourself dining in a cosy alcove or sipping cocktails in a secret garden – it’s all part of the adventure.

Los Mochis

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Location: 2-4 Farmer St, London W8 7SN, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7243 6436

Pricing: ££ 

Website

If you’re a fan of this Mexican elixir, Los Mochis is your promised land. Their tequila selection is extensive, and they whip up some of the best margaritas in town. From classic margaritas to creative twists, you’ll be saying “salud” in no time.

Special themed nights are a regular occurrence. Taco Tuesdays are legendary, with discounted tacos and margaritas to keep the party going. Keep an eye on their events calendar for more themed nights and surprises.

Forge

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Location: 24 Cornhill, London EC3V 3ND, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7337 6767

Pricing: ££

Website

If you’re a fan of grilled delights, Forge has your back. Their Josper grill is the star of the show, churning out succulent steaks, mouthwatering burgers, and smoky-infused dishes that’ll make your taste buds do a victory dance.

The heart and soul of Forge is really in its live music performances, though. From acoustic sessions to DJs who know how to keep the crowd moving, Forge turns the music up to 11.

Bunga Bunga 

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Location: 167 Drury Ln, London WC2B 5PG, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7590 3602

Pricing: ££ 

Website

Right out of the gate, Bunga Bunga serves up the flavours of Italy with style. The menu is a mouthwatering journey through Italian cuisine, from wood-fired pizzas to pasta dishes that’ll make your heart sing “That’s Amore!”

Now, hold onto your spaghetti because Bunga Bunga isn’t just about food. It’s a cabaret extravaganza! The Bunga Bunga Show is a spectacle like no other where you can expect hilarious performances, awe-inspiring acts, and a side of humour that’ll have you in stitches.

Inamo Covent Garden

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Location: 11-14 Hanover Pl, London WC2E 9JP, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7484 0500

Pricing: ££ 

Website

Inamo takes dining into the 21st century. From your interactive table, you can do it all – order your food, change the tablecloth design, play games, and even watch the chefs at work in the kitchen via the chef cam. 

Just like their menu, Inamo’s bar is equally innovative. Their interactive bar-top allows you to order drinks with a touch, and they serve up creative cocktails and a well-curated wine list that pairs perfectly with their dishes.

Flight Club

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Location: 2A Worship St, London EC2A 2AH, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 3019 3093

Pricing: ££

Website

Flight Club is like a carnival for adults where fun and food collide. But the star of the show? Social darts! Yep, you read that right. It’s a unique concept that combines the joy of darts with a lively, social atmosphere.

These aren’t your granddad’s dartboards. Flight Club has a state-of-the-art scoring system that keeps track of your throws, so you can focus on perfecting your aim. It’s like having a personal caddy for your dart game.

The experience at Flight Club is all about variety. They offer a range of darts games to suit everyone, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total beginner. From “Demolition” to “Snakes and Ladders”, there’s a game for every mood.

Dirty Bones

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Location: 13, 8 Kingly Ct, Carnaby, London W1B 5PP, United Kingdom

Contact: You may contact them here

Pricing: ££

Website

The moment you set foot in Dirty Bones, you’re transported to a neon-soaked, retro wonderland. The decor is a nod to the 70s and 80s, with vibrant colours, quirky furnishings, and an atmosphere that’s as nostalgic as it is lively. 

The atmosphere is set to “party mode” with live DJ sets. They even have a vinyl collection, and you can even request your favourite tunes to be played. It’s like having a personalised jukebox for your dining experience.

The Piano Works

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Location: 113, Corner of, 117 Farringdon Rd, Ray St, London EC1R 3BX, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7278 1966

Pricing: ££

Website

The Piano Works loves to get its patrons involved, and there’s a unique deal on offer. Sing a song, and you could score yourself a free shot. 

You don’t need to be the next Gaga or Beyoncé, by the way. It’s all about having fun and embracing your inner rockstar. So, pick a song and give it a whirl. Who knows, you might just surprise yourself.

The fun at The Piano Works doesn’t stop when the clock strikes midnight either. In fact, that’s when things really get going. The venue transforms into a full-blown nightclub, with DJs spinning tunes that’ll keep you dancing into the early hours.

Burdock

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Location: 22-25 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1DX, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 3873 4050

Pricing: ££

Website

You don’t need Aladdin’s magic carpet to take you to a whole new world because Burdock is all about elevating your dining experience. Perched high above the bustling streets of London, it’s located on the rooftop of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel. 

With breathtaking panoramic views of the city, it’s the kind of spot where you can unwind with a cocktail and feel on top of the world.

Burdock often features live music acts, adding an extra layer of entertainment to your dining experience. Imagine enjoying a delicious meal and a cocktail, all while being serenaded by talented musicians. It’s the recipe for a memorable evening.

The Candlelight Club 

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Location: 6 Kemsing Rd, London SE10 0LL, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 7768 628788

Pricing: ££

Website

Just like any good speakeasy, The Candlelight Club’s location is a well-kept secret. You’ll need to be in the know to find it, adding a sense of exclusivity to your night out. 

As the name suggests, candlelight is the star of the show here. The entire venue is dimly lit by flickering candles, creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to whisper secrets and share stories.

Live jazz and swing music fill the air, setting the perfect backdrop for your evening. The talented musicians and performers at The Candlelight Club bring the spirit of the 1920s to life, and you’ll find yourself tapping your toes in no time.

Floripa

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Location: 91-92 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3HZ, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 3325 9739

Pricing: ££

Website

Floripa is like a Brazilian carnival that never ends, right in the heart of Shoreditch. Once inside, you’re transported to the streets of Rio de Janeiro. The place is named after a coastal village in Brazil, and it captures the spirit of this exotic locale to a T.

The beating heart of Floripa is its live music. The restaurant regularly hosts bands playing everything from samba to bossa nova, ensuring your meal is seasoned with the sounds of Brazil. 

If you’ve never danced to the rhythms of samba, this is your chance to get your hips moving!

Blues Kitchen  

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Location: 111-113 Camden High St, London NW1 7JN, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 7387 5277

Pricing: £

Website

As the name suggests, Blues Kitchen is all about the blues. The live bands and musicians here bring the soulful sounds of the Deep South to life, and you’ll be tapping your feet or swaying to the rhythm in no time.

Blues and barbecue go together like, well, blues and barbecue! The menu at Blues Kitchen is a carnivore’s dream: tender ribs, juicy pulled pork, and smoky brisket that’s been slow-cooked to perfection. The BBQ sauce alone is worth the visit.

The Rum Kitchen

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Location: Carnaby St, Carnaby, London W1B 5PW, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 3668 2537

Pricing: £

Website

It’s all in the name! The Rum Kitchen boasts an impressive collection of – you guessed it – rum! From aged sipping rums to tropical-inspired cocktails, you can sip your way through the Caribbean without ever leaving London. 

Here, you can expect jerk chicken that’s so flavourful it practically dances on your taste buds, tender curried goat, and mouthwatering seafood dishes. And don’t forget the sides – plantains, rice and peas, and coleslaw that’s a party in your mouth.

Aeronaut

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Location: 264 High St, London W3 9BH, United Kingdom

Contact: +44 20 8993 4242

Pricing: £

Website

Aeronaut isn’t your typical dinner-and-drinks spot. It’s a circus! 

Well, not exactly, but it sure feels like one. The decor is inspired by the circus, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by vintage posters, colourful props, and whimsical decorations. 

But wait, there’s more! Aeronaut isn’t just about circus acts. They’ve got live bands and DJs that’ll have you grooving on the dance floor. It’s a place where you can eat, drink, and dance the night away, all under one eclectic roof.

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