8 Gallery Restaurants Worth Visiting
8 Gallery Restaurants Worth Visiting
Restaurants & Bars
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8 Gallery Restaurants Worth Visiting

A gallery visit no longer has to end in the gift shop. Across London and beyond, some of the UK's most exciting chefs are setting up inside museums and galleries, serving elevated menus in inspiring surroundings. Whether you're after a long lunch between exhibitions or a destination-worthy dinner, these are the spots worth knowing.
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Image: Pollini, Ladbroke Hall, Stevie Campbell

The Portrait by Richard Corrigan

The National Portrait Gallery

Just around the corner from Trafalgar Square, Richard Corrigan’s The Portrait sits on the fourth floor of the National Portrait Gallery, offering sweeping views across the London skyline. The space is elegant but easy-going, with blonde wood interiors and greenery softening the contemporary feel. The menu celebrates British and Irish ingredients, with a focus on seafood, game and seasonal produce. Expect thoughtful, unfussy plates – from white onion and wild garlic soup to perfectly cooked poussin.

Visit NPG.ORG.UK

Locatelli

The National Gallery

Set within the newly reimagined Sainsbury Wing, Locatelli brings serious culinary pedigree to Trafalgar Square. Created by Giorgio and Plaxy Locatelli, this light-filled 80-seat restaurant is a refined yet relaxed space that feels perfectly in tune with its surroundings. The menu leans into classic Italian comfort, elevated with precision – think braised veal tortelloni with gremolata and parmesan sauce, best paired with a glass of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo – with Caravaggio’s dramatic works just steps away.

Visit LOCATELLIATNATIONALGALLERY.CO.UK

Tate Modern

Restaurant & Bar

Perched on the sixth floor of the Tate Modern, this is dining with one of the best views in London. St Paul’s sits directly opposite, while the river stretches out beneath floor-to-ceiling windows. Inside, the food mirrors the gallery below: bold, colourful and composed with an artist’s eye. Beetroot starters come vibrantly plated, while desserts feel almost sculptural in their presentation. Time your visit to coincide with sunset over the Thames.

Visit TATE.ORG.UK

Bar Giorgio

The National Gallery

For something more casual, Bar Giorgio is reason enough to pop into the National Gallery. Also overseen by Giorgio Locatelli, it's the spot for proper Italian coffee, freshly filled maritozzi buns and an excellent aperitivo. Swing by for a mid-morning pick-me-up or settle in with a cocktail after work – Friday evenings are particularly lively.

Visit LOCATELLIATNATIONALGALLERY.CO.UK

Stevie Campbell
Stevie Campbell
Stevie Campbell
Stevie Campbell

Pollini

At Ladbroke Hall

West London locals might prefer to keep this one to themselves. Tucked inside the arts-focused Ladbroke Hall, Pollini is led by chef Emanuele Pollini, whose Michelin-starred background shows in every detail. The menu takes a seasonal approach to classic Italian cooking, while the leafy garden makes it one of the loveliest spots for al fresco dining in the capital.

Visit  LADBROKEHALL.COM

José Pizarro

At The Royal Academy

The Royal Academy is home to not one but two José Pizarro dining spots: the laidback Poster Bar and his elegant main restaurant. Housed within Burlington House, the latter has a claim to being one of London's most beautiful dining rooms. Come for top-tier tapas, chilled fino and plenty of people-watching, then head straight back into the galleries.

Visit  ROYALACADEMY.ORG.UK

The Garden Museum Café

Helmed by chef Myles Donaldson, formerly of Noble Rot and St John Bread & Wine, The Garden Museum Café kitchen turns out a regularly changing menu rooted in British produce with subtle European influences. In summer, the secluded garden feels like one of London's best-kept secrets.

Visit GARDENMUSEUM.ORG.UK
Anthony Coleman

E5 Storehouse

At V&A East Storehouse

The newest outpost of E5 Bakehouse has found a fitting home inside the innovative V&A East Storehouse in Stratford. Whether you're after a pastry before exploring the collections or a seasonal salad after a few hours of browsing, it's an ideal pit-stop. At weekends, the café stays open later for wine, cheese and small plates in collaboration with Provisions.

Visit E5BAKEHOUSE.COM

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