Discover the Best Restaurant South Bank Has to Offer: A 2025 Guide

Planning a trip to London's South Bank and wondering where to grab a bite? It's a fantastic area with loads of places to eat, whether you're after a fancy meal with a view or just a quick snack. We've put together a guide to help you find the best restaurant South Bank has to offer in 2025, covering everything from riverside dining to global flavours and casual eats.

Key Takeaways

• For stunning river views and a sophisticated dining experience, consider OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie, Skylon, or Le Pont de la Tour.

• The National Theatre and nearby spots like Forza Wine and Lasdun offer excellent food in cultural settings.

• Explore global tastes with options like Mexican chain Wahaca, Middle Eastern spot Bala Baya, or Caribbean flavours at Limin.

• Satisfy your cravings for classic British fare and hearty steaks at Gillray's Steakhouse & Bar, Butlers Wharf Chop House, or Swan At Shakespeare's Globe.

• For more relaxed options, check out the diverse offerings at Southbank Centre Food Market, the unique atmosphere of Ponyfish Island, or a classic burger from Five Guys.

Riverside Dining: The Best Restaurant South Bank Views

South Bank isn't just a place for a nice walk along the river anymore; it's become a real hotspot for foodies. And if you're after a meal with a view, you're in luck. The restaurants here really make the most of their prime riverside spots, offering everything from glittering cityscapes to the gentle flow of the Thames. It's hard to beat a good meal with the water right there.

Here are a few places that stand out for their fantastic riverside settings:

OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie

Perched high up, the OXO Tower offers some seriously impressive panoramas. You can see St Paul's Cathedral and the London skyline spread out before you. It's a classic choice for a reason, with a menu that aims to impress just as much as the view. Whether you're in the more formal restaurant or the buzzy brasserie, the Thames is your constant companion.

Skylon

Located within the Royal Festival Hall, Skylon boasts a sleek, modern interior that complements its stunning river views. It's a great spot for both a relaxed lunch or a more sophisticated dinner. The floor-to-ceiling windows mean you get an uninterrupted look at the water and the city lights twinkling across the river. They do a decent afternoon tea here too, if that's more your speed.

Le Pont de la Tour

This place has been a South Bank staple for a while, and for good reason. Situated right by the river, it offers a more traditional, elegant dining experience. You can watch the boats go by while enjoying their classic dishes. It feels a bit special, making it a good shout for an occasion or when you just fancy treating yourself to a lovely meal with a view that never gets old.

Culinary Delights At The National Theatre And Beyond

Just a stone's throw from the iconic National Theatre, you'll find a couple of spots that really hit the mark for a satisfying meal. It's not just about the performances; the food scene here is pretty impressive too. These places offer a fantastic mix of modern European and Italian-inspired dishes, perfect for a pre-theatre bite or a relaxed dinner.

Forza Wine At The National Theatre

Perched on the top floor of the National Theatre itself, Forza Wine brings a taste of its Peckham vibe to the South Bank. They describe their food as 'Italian-ish', and honestly, that's a pretty good way to put it. Expect fresh flavours, from simple but tasty salads with punchy dressings to more substantial mains like lamb shoulder or a hearty pork ragu. It’s all about good ingredients, prepared well, without being overly fussy. It’s a great spot to catch some views while you eat.

Lasdun

Named after the architect of the National Theatre, Denys Lasdun, this restaurant is located just a floor below Forza Wine. The team behind it also runs the well-regarded Marksman pub in Hackney, so you know the food is going to be good. It’s a bit more on the posh side, with a menu that leans into British classics, done with a bit of flair. Think terrines and well-cooked meats. It’s a solid choice if you're looking for something a bit more refined.

Tate Modern Restaurant

While it might be tucked away inside one of the world's most famous art galleries, the Tate Modern Restaurant is a bit of a hidden gem. You get amazing views across the river to St Paul's Cathedral from the sixth floor. The menu focuses on seasonal British food, and they often change dishes to match the exhibitions. It's a lovely place for lunch, but remember, it closes at 5 pm, so it's more of a daytime affair. You can find more information about restaurants near The National Theatre.

The area around the National Theatre is buzzing with activity, and these restaurants are perfectly placed to soak it all in. Whether you're after something light or a full meal, there's a good chance you'll find something to suit your taste buds right here.

Global Flavours On South Bank

South Bank isn't just about the iconic landmarks; it's a vibrant hub for food lovers seeking tastes from around the world. From bustling markets to sit-down restaurants, there's a global adventure waiting for every palate.

Wahaca

For a lively and colourful Mexican street food experience, Wahaca is a top choice. You can find them right on the terrace of the Queen Elizabeth Hall, offering plenty of outdoor seating with lovely Thames views. Their menu is packed with all the familiar favourites like tacos, burritos, and tostadas, all served in a fun, casual setting. It’s a great spot for a quick bite or a more relaxed meal.

Bala Baya

Nestled under a railway arch in Southwark, Bala Baya offers a unique Middle Eastern dining experience. By day, it’s a bustling spot for quick lunches with their fantastic pitta bread, and by night, it transforms into a buzzing restaurant. They serve up small, flavour-packed dishes that are inspired by the region, like their famous tea-smoked aubergine. It’s a place that really surprises and delights.

Limin

Bringing the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean to the South Bank, Limin started as a popular pop-up and has now found a permanent home by the Thames. The menu is a delicious reflection of Trinidadian heritage mixed with London influences. You can expect tasty snacks like freetas (split pea fritters) and Trini puri, alongside a fantastic selection of homemade chutneys and pepper sauces. It’s a real taste of the islands right here in the city. If you're looking for something different, this is definitely worth checking out, especially if you're exploring restaurants in London.

South Bank truly shines when it comes to offering a diverse range of international cuisines. Whether you're after spicy Mexican street food, aromatic Middle Eastern mezze, or the sunny flavours of the Caribbean, you'll find it here. These spots are perfect for anyone wanting to explore beyond the usual and try something new and exciting.

Steakhouse Sensations And British Classics

Sometimes, you just fancy a proper, no-nonsense meal. We're talking about hearty British fare, done well, and if that includes a perfectly cooked steak, even better. South Bank has some cracking spots that nail this, whether you're after a classic roast or a prime cut.

Gillray's Steakhouse & Bar

Named after an old-school satirist, Gillray's is a good-looking place with some seriously impressive views over the Thames. You can see why they've put James Gillray's work on the walls – it adds a bit of character. It's mostly about the steaks here, as you'd expect. They've got all the usual suspects: T-bones, fillets, sirloins. And for the really hungry, there's a massive 'bull's head' cut, which is basically a kilo of butterflied prime rib. If steak isn't your thing, they also do a decent barnsley chop, burgers, and ribs.

• Signature Cuts: T-bone, Fillet, Sirloin

• For the Adventurous: 'Bull's Head' (1kg Prime Rib)

• Other Grills: Barnsley Chops, Burgers, Barbecue Ribs

Butlers Wharf Chop House

Right by Tower Bridge, this place has got cracking riverside views and a terrace that's even got rubber rings – a nice touch. The focus here is firmly on British meat. They do a good charcuterie selection, and their chops and cutlets are popular. If you're after a steak, the Aberdeen Angus cuts are cooked over a charcoal grill, giving them a lovely smoky flavour. They also do comforting puddings, which is always a win.

This is the sort of place that feels solid and dependable. You know you're going to get good quality British food, served without any fuss, and with a view to boot. It’s a reliable choice for a satisfying meal.

Swan At Shakespeare's Globe

If you're heading to the Globe theatre, the Swan is a pretty fitting place to eat. Don't worry, it's not all touristy clichés. They serve up modern British dishes that are seasonal and well-prepared. Think dishes like Romney Marsh lamb rump with kale and caramelised shallots. The views of the river from here are also pretty special, so it's worth booking a table with a window seat if you can.

• Seasonal British Menu: Focus on fresh, local ingredients.

• Location: Right next to Shakespeare's Globe.

• Atmosphere: Elegant dining with river views.

Casual Bites And Street Food Experiences

Sometimes, you just want something quick, tasty, and without all the fuss, right? South Bank really nails this with its brilliant casual dining and street food scene. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite while you’re exploring, or if you just fancy a relaxed meal.

Southbank Centre Food Market

This is an absolute must-visit if you’re after variety. Tucked away near the Royal Festival Hall, the Southbank Centre Food Market is a buzzing hub of food stalls. You can find pretty much anything here, from spicy curries and flavourful tacos to sweet treats and fresh juices. It’s a real feast for the senses, and the perfect place to try a few different things. It’s open from Friday to Sunday, plus bank holidays, so plan your visit accordingly. They’ve got everything from global flavours to more local tastes, all served up in a lively atmosphere.

Ponyfish Island

Now, this one’s a bit of a hidden gem. Tucked away under the bridge, Ponyfish Island is a quirky little bar and eatery that feels like a secret hideout. It’s a great spot to grab a drink and a bite, especially on a warmer day. They often have a good selection of snacks and small plates, perfect for sharing. It’s got a really laid-back vibe, making it a nice escape from the usual hustle and bustle.

Five Guys

For those days when only a classic burger and fries will do, Five Guys is a reliable choice. You know what you’re getting here – generous portions, fresh ingredients, and plenty of topping options to customise your meal. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense option that’s always satisfying. Plus, their fries are legendary, and you get a whole lot of them in a bag!

Elevated Dining For Special Occasions

When you're looking to mark a significant event or just fancy a really top-notch meal, South Bank has some spots that really fit the bill. These places aren't just about the food, though that's brilliant, of course. They're about the whole experience – the views, the service, the atmosphere. It's where you go when you want to impress or just treat yourself properly.

Eureka 89

Perched way up high in the Eureka Tower, this is dining with a view that's hard to beat. We're talking 360-degree panoramas of the city stretching out below. It's the kind of place that makes you feel like you're on top of the world, perfect for those big celebrations. They do tasting menus, either six or eight courses, and they've even got a dedicated vegetarian option, so everyone can enjoy the spectacle. It’s definitely a memorable spot for a birthday or anniversary.

Left Bank

This venue offers a bit of a different vibe, drawing inspiration from Los Angeles with its decor and menu. It’s a lively spot, especially if you enjoy being outdoors, with a real summery feel. The menu leans towards seafood, with flavours from Latin America and the Philippines. Think tasty tacos and fresh ceviche. They also have a great cocktail list, with some interesting twists on classics. It's a fun, relaxed place for a special meal, especially if the weather's good.

Commune Wine

For those who appreciate a good glass of wine alongside their meal, Commune Wine is a solid choice. While it might not have the sky-high views of some other places, it makes up for it with a really well-chosen wine list and a menu that complements it perfectly. It’s a more intimate setting, ideal for a romantic dinner or a quiet catch-up with friends where the focus is on quality food and drink. They often have interesting small plates and mains that pair wonderfully with their extensive selection of wines from around the globe. It’s a place to savour the flavours and enjoy good company.

When choosing a restaurant for a special occasion, consider what kind of atmosphere you're after. Do you want grand views, a lively buzz, or something more intimate and focused on the wine list? South Bank caters to all these preferences, ensuring your celebration feels just right.

So, What's for Dinner on the South Bank?

Right then, that's a wrap on our little tour of the South Bank's food scene for 2025. We've seen everything from fancy places with amazing views to more laid-back spots perfect for a casual bite. Whether you're after a big meal out or just a quick snack while you're exploring, there's definitely something to suit your mood and your wallet. It's a pretty great area for eating out, really. So next time you're down by the river, you'll know exactly where to head for a good feed. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of food can I find on the South Bank?

You'll find all sorts of yummy food on the South Bank! There are places with amazing views of the river, restaurants serving classic British food, and spots offering tasty dishes from all over the world, like Mexican and Caribbean. There are also great places for quick bites and even fancy restaurants for special times.

Are there any restaurants with good views?

Yes, definitely! Many restaurants along the South Bank have fantastic views of the River Thames. Places like OXO Tower and Skylon are known for their great riverside scenery, perfect for a meal with a view.

Where can I get some good British food?

For classic British meals, try places like Gillray's Steakhouse & Bar or Butlers Wharf Chop House. Swan At Shakespeare's Globe also offers modern British dishes with a lovely setting.

Is there good food at the National Theatre?

Yes, the National Theatre has some great eating spots! Forza Wine at the National Theatre offers delicious Italian-inspired food with a view, and Lasdun, also in the building, serves up tasty European dishes.

What are the best options for a casual meal or street food?

If you're after something more relaxed, the Southbank Centre Food Market is brilliant for trying lots of different street foods. Ponyfish Island is a cool spot under a bridge for drinks and simple food, and Five Guys is great for a tasty burger.

Which restaurants are good for a special occasion?

For a really special treat, Eureka 89 offers amazing views from high up and a fancy tasting menu. Left Bank is also a stylish place for a celebration with good food and drinks.