You’ll have no trouble finding a way to ring in the New Year in London. Whatever your plans, a gourmet dinner is practically a given. To spare you the overwhelming number of restaurant choices, I’ve curated a list of top spots for a truly unforgettable New Year’s Eve — expect specially designed indulgent menus, flawless ambiance, and a little extra sparkle in the night’s lineup as you toast to new beginnings.
I’ve been a longtime admirer of Sally Abé — a chef whose talent has garnered her some of the industry’s top accolades, along with a well-deserved reputation as a mentor who, I dare say, is reshaping the future of women in the culinary world. Following her inspiring path led me to The Pem at Conrad St. James, a restaurant with a distinct art deco vibe, draped in deep red and rose hues that lend a sumptuous backdrop to your evening. It’s the kind of setting where your sequin or silk attire feels perfectly at home.
The location couldn’t be better for extending the night — whether you’re catching the London Eye fireworks, taking a riverside stroll under the city’s festive lights, or grabbing a cocktail at a nearby bar. When it comes to cuisine, you can have complete confidence — believe me, it’s always impeccable. For New Year’s Eve, The Pem promises an indulgent menu featuring dishes like delicately sliced scallops, grilled monkfish with vadouvan sauce, and hay-aged duck with pumpkin and spiced honey.
7-course menu — £179
New Year’s magic just feels amplified when you’re lifted to the 14th floor and treated to dazzling views of Tower Bridge’s lights. At 14 Hills, you may feel more like you’re in a lush tropical paradise than in a winter fairy tale, though — but maybe that’s exactly the refresh you need to welcome new beginnings. This botanical-themed oasis instantly won me over with its inviting ambiance and vibrant green decor.
When I first came here for cocktails at the circular bar, I ended up savoring delicious bites and a lemon tart that was simply to die for, and since then I have kept the spot on my radar for special occasions. The New Year's Eve menu offers an unapologetically lavish lineup — just as it should. Think Cornish crab refined with a hint of champagne, Dover sole brightened by Oscietra caviar, and ribeye enriched with black truffle jus. A guest DJ will spin nostalgic hits from the '80s and '90s — because some things never go out of style, even as we step into 2025, right?
Earlier sitting 5-course menu — £90
Later seating 6-course menu — £160
Starting the year Italian way is a wonderful choice if you’re setting a resolution to embrace a more hedonistic lifestyle. After all, those who live in the land of la dolce vita have mastered the art of savoring life’s pleasures. Recently revamped with a luxurious touch, the long-beloved institution Sale e Pepe is here to feed you lavishly, offering authentic pastas, risottos, crudi, and other staples.
For me, despite the abundance of vibrant, trendy Italian spots, this one holds a place as a true classic — a benchmark of refined elegance and quality. And yet, I never find it overly formal or stiff. With an updated interior featuring polished bronze accents, marble surfaces, and rich, blue-tinged walls, the restaurant invites you to indulge in a spectacular New Year’s Eve dinner. The night rolls out with delicacies like truffle tagliatelle, burrata with heritage tomatoes, and Angus filet with asparagus, all finishing on a sweet note with a decadent chocolate mousse cake.
10-course menu — £184
Concealing your identity and leaving just a hint of mystery behind a glamorous mask is a truly special experience. Smith’s Bar & Grill invites you to don your most dramatic outfits, hide your face in style, and step into their New Year’s masquerade ball. With DJ sets, performances, and dancing, this is a perfect choice for those looking for something a bit more adventurous than a quiet dinner.
The restaurant is a spacious and versatile venue, with my personal favorite area being the terrace by the canal. However, in December, your attention will probably shift to its modern, plant-filled interior, featuring chic leather banquettes, marble surfaces, and an audacious use of colors. Guests will enjoy two seating options for the festive menu, both offering access to the lively afterparty and a lineup of expertly chargrilled dishes you’ll likely want to return for. A fine selection of wines and fun, flavor-packed cocktails will keep the energy high.
Late seating — £150
Early seating — £100
How about a romantic, candlelit New Year's Eve paired with a stunning view of the Thames? Chino Latino is hosting its first New Year's dinner, and I'm sure they'll pull out all the stops to make it unforgettable. While opinions about the restaurant may vary, I’ve only had positive experiences there, enjoying the vibrant fusion of pan-Asian cuisine and Latin-inspired cocktails. On December 31, live music will set the tone for your meal, followed by a DJ set as the night goes on and the belts loosen.
The late seating menu might be on the pricier side, but with top-notch ingredients and meticulous presentations, it’s well worth the cost. The journey begins with delicate sashimi, prawn maki, and salmon nigiri before escalating to beef tataki and chicken dumplings, culminating in indulgent plates like wasabi lobster and black Angus short ribs. If you opt for an earlier seating, you’ll get a slightly trimmed-down version of the menu — no lobster, but also no lobster-sized price tag.
New Years’ Eve menu — £275
Early bird menu — £100
