London is considered one of the most multicultural cities in the world, and this includes its culinary diversity with an incredible range of different cuisines, including some of the best French restaurants and eateries you are bound to stumble across. In this blog, we share our 5 favourite local French restaurants just around the corner from our school in Covent Garden.
The French House
The French House is no ordinary gastropub as it’s a favourite haunt and watering hole for famous actors, writers and artists based in the city. The upstairs is small, cosy and only has a few tables in its very charismatic, historic setting. Whenever you set foot in The French House, you’re bound to have an entertaining time with wine flowing and some of the best French food you’ll ever have. Consistently ranking in the top 50 gastropubs in the UK, The French House is located in the busting heart of Soho and offers traditional, honest food which never fails to disappoint.
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L’Escargot
Also set in the heart of Soho is L’Escargot, which is another favourite amongst Londoners. L’Escargot has been at the epicentre of London fine dining since the 1920s with a fabulous menu based on quintessential Parisian brasserie. Tuck into a classic lobster bique, a mouth-watering steak tartare, succulent duck confit or dare to try the iconic escargots (snails) with garlic butter. The setting is authentic, trendy and fits in perfectly with the elegant vibe and food of the restaurant.
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Mon Plaisir
While L’Escargot is London’s oldest French restaurant, Mon Plaisir claims to be the city’s oldest family-run French restaurant having been established by the Viala brothers during the 40s. Over 80 years later, Mon Plaisir has preserved its origins and has continued its tradition of serving top quality authentic French cuisine. The impressive menu features all the classics from tartiflette to coq au vin, entrecôte grillée to canard confite, you’re in for a true French culinary experience at Mon Plaisir.
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Brasserie Zédel
From one classic to another, Brasserie Zédel is a grand and bustling Parisian-style brasserie serving some of the best French cuisine in the city. Aside from the top quality food, diners can enjoy exotic cocktails, live music and events as well as occasional cabaret nights. There’s always something going at Brasserie Zédel so make sure to head down on a Friday or Saturday night for an evening of fun, laughter and excellent food!
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Gauthier Soho
Gauthier Soho is a luxury, fully vegan restaurant run by world-famous Michelin star chef, Alexis Gauthier. In 2016, Gauthier became vegan and last year he removed all animal produce from his restaurant menus. The famous chef is seeking to redefine French gastronomy and fine dining with pioneering adaptations of the classics. Diners can enjoy a 5 or 8 course set menu with unforgettable dishes, including 3D printed lamb, which could show what the future of food will be.
Inspired to learn French? Take up a face-to-face or online French course with IH London. Find out more here.