There’s a certain ease to London dining this time of year, and as TONE’s take on the best London restaurants shifts into a more seasonal rhythm, it’s a particularly good moment to go out.
The urgency of new openings softens slightly, terraces begin to fill again, and menus shift just enough to feel fresh without trying too hard. It’s less about chasing what’s new, and more about knowing what’s worth your time this week.
From long, easy brunches in Marylebone to pub afternoons in Hampstead and wine-led dinners in Mayfair, these are the places setting the tone right now.
For a weekend brunch that turns into an afternoon: Kitchen at Holmes
There’s something about Marylebone on a weekend that lends itself to slower plans, and Kitchen at Holmes leans into that effortlessly.
The brunch offering here is built around comfort, but with enough detail to keep things interesting. Eggs take centre stage, from lobster benedict to shakshuka and a generous four-egg frittata, alongside lighter options like eggs Florentine. It’s the kind of menu that works whether you’re easing into the day or settling in for something longer.
Set within the Holmes Hotel, the space itself feels relaxed but refined, with a quiet confidence that makes it easy to stay past your initial booking. Add in live music across the weekend, and it becomes less of a quick brunch stop and more of a place to settle into properly.
Location: 108 Baker Street, London W1U 6LJ
Book here.
For a sun-led pub afternoon in Hampstead: The Garden Gate
As soon as the weather shifts, even slightly, London starts moving towards pubs with outdoor space, and The Garden Gate is one of those places that always feels like the right decision.
Set on the edge of Hampstead Heath, it has that rare balance of feeling like a proper local while still drawing a wider crowd. The garden is the main event, a spacious, slightly tucked-away outdoor area that catches the light well into the afternoon, making it an easy choice for sunnier days.
Inside, it leans more traditional, with a warmth that carries through from the bar to the dining areas. The food is exactly what you want from a good pub, well-executed classics and plates designed to pair with a drink, but it’s the atmosphere that keeps people there.
It’s the kind of place where plans tend to extend without much effort. One drink becomes a few, and the afternoon disappears with it.
Location: South End Green, Hampstead, London NW3 2QE
Book here.
For a seasonal afternoon tea with a softer edge: Lanes of London
At Lanes of London, inside the Marriott Park Lane, afternoon tea takes on a more playful tone, without losing its sense of polish.
Inspired by Guess How Much I Love You, the menu leans into softer, more delicate flavours and presentation. There’s a sense of lightness to it, from a wildflower meadow dessert made with rhubarb confit and honey panna cotta to a chocolate orange tree stump and a lychee rose cloud that feels almost too delicate to touch.
It’s thoughtfully done, balancing nostalgia with proper technique, and makes for a more relaxed take on the traditional afternoon tea format. With the experience running until 19 April, it’s one to catch while it’s still in place.
Location: 140 Park Lane, London W1K 7AA
Book here.
For a Sunday that feels quietly elevated: Dovetale
At Dovetale, Sundays are approached with a certain level of precision, as you might expect from a restaurant led by Tom Sellers.
The menu centres around sharing-style roasts, done properly. Think Basque roast chicken, Lake District tomahawk steak, or slow-roast Herdwick lamb shoulder, all served with the kind of trimmings that feel generous without being excessive.
Starters lean more refined, Carlingford oysters, wild garlic soup with cheese puffs, steak tartare, while live music runs softly in the background, adding to the overall pace of the room.
It’s a version of Sunday lunch that feels considered without being overly formal. Something you plan, rather than fall into, and one to add for your best London restaurants to try list.
Location: 1 Hotel Mayfair, 3 Berkeley Street, London W1J 8DL
Book here.
For a wine-led dinner with depth: Gaucho
For those leaning more towards wine this week, Gaucho’s latest collaboration offers something worth booking around.
In partnership with Hannah Crosbie, the menu focuses on wines from Terrazas de los Andes, bringing a more considered look at Argentine varietals. Malbec leads, but the selection moves beyond it, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay adding a broader perspective.
The food follows suit. Steak tartare, marinated churrasco sirloin, and a dulce de leche Basque cheesecake round things out, all designed to sit alongside the wines rather than compete with them.
It’s a format that works particularly well for a midweek dinner, something structured, but still relaxed enough to enjoy without overthinking it.
Location: Multiple London locations including Piccadilly, Mayfair and Tower Bridge
Book here.
London doesn’t need much of an excuse to go out, but it always rewards a good plan. This week, these are the best London restaurants to add to your list.
For more recommendations, visit TONE Magazine LDN and our Eats page.
