For years now, London’s restaurants have embraced the November ritual of serving lavish Thanksgiving dinners. Unsurprisingly, these feasts are a hit with both those who hold dear the traditions from home across the ocean and anyone who simply enjoys sharing the pleasures of life in great company. We all know how special and meaningful this evening is supposed to be, yet it can be hard to feel wholeheartedly grateful when the thought of a turkey that’s too dry lingers in the back of your mind. To save the day from any disappointments, I've embarked on an important mission of hunting down the best venues in London to be recognized with the Luxurious Thanksgiving Feast Award — a mark of quality that honors those establishments truly excelling in crafting the ideal holiday meal. So, here are the dining rooms that deserved a spot on my ultimate roundup for a smooth Thanksgiving, where you’ll likely have the urge to thank the chefs for whipping up such indulgent meals.
While TikTok trends have been trying to crack the code of the “rich guy laugh”, Mayfair, the epitome of all things posh, has been hearing it in abundance for decades. Sure, some might roll their eyes at its snooty allure, but I’d argue it has more than earned the right to be unapologetically pretentious. Nestled in the heart of this coveted locale, just steps from Grosvenor Square, called “Little America”, you'll find a renowned address: The Beaumont Hotel. To me, it’s the quintessential spot to celebrate the holiday rooted in the US with a nod to the elegance of bygone days. The venue clearly draws inspiration from the neighborhood's heritage of transatlantic connections, infusing all the spaces with that unmistakable spirit of 1920s glamorous venues, including its main restaurant, The Colony Grill Room. The Art Deco design is stunning and classy, and I can’t help but think it would be a delightful touch to style your outfit in keeping with that era. The moody interior, dressed in rich burgundy and dark wood tones, instantly transports you to the iconic brasseries of Manhattan’s golden age, while the vibrant landscape murals by Anthony Inswasty definitely give the room a distinct personality. Sumptuous crimson leather booths feel wonderfully intimate, like cozy enclaves bathed in the romantic glow of red fabric lamps — perfect for accommodating a group of four to six. Such an outstanding ambience makes it all the more compelling to reserve your lunch or dinner on November 28th.
Thanksgiving table
First off, let’s give credit where it’s due: the restaurant’s executive chef Ben Boeynaems is the mastermind behind the impeccable flavors of transatlantic classics, while also curating special dishes that are bound to spark some personal nostalgia for every guest. If you’re going for the lunch set, you’ll dive straight into the core of it all — with the star of the show, of course, being traditionally garnished turkey. It’s complemented by other delights like delicately spiced pumpkin velouté with clementine and smoked ricotta and capped off with pecan pie served with brown butter Bourbon ice cream, paired with coffee, tea, or infusions. If you opt for a lavish dinner, look forward to kingfish crudo with sweet corn and baked brie with cranberry gel and crackers added to the lineup. Plus, there’s a vegetarian option available, featuring nut roast as the holiday centerpiece — and honestly, I find this to be a clever and unique twist that shows some serious thought from the team. Wine pairings are thoughtfully selected to complement the treats, but if you’d like to forge your own path, choose a bottle from the list — there’re safe & classic Thanksgiving Pinot Noir variations such as Domaine Chanson Monthélie 1er Cru Clos Gauthey 2019, vibrant Beaujolais Domaine Julien Sunier Fleurie Cru 2022, and a full 50 pages to peruse if you want to venture into something more adventurous. And if, like me, you’re into experimental sampling, here’s a noteworthy detail: the Colony Grill Room now offers an impressive and rare selection of labels by the glass.
Lunch: £70.00 per adult, £25.00 per child
Dinner: £90.00 per adult, £40.00 per child (£70.00 and £25.00 respectively for vegetarian dinner)
If you're in the mood for something less monumental and more relaxed, keep Darby’s address in mind. It’s no surprise to find a New York-inspired grill south of the river in Vauxhall, where the imposing new US Embassy looms like a shimmering glass palace. You’ll love the versatility of this place — it also features an oyster bar (great value during happy hours) and bakery. I have to admit, their pastries — particularly pain au chocolat — are top-notch, so feel free to drop in for an indulgent coffee break or some savory morning bagels. The restaurant won't overwhelm you with an ostentatious vibe or pretense. Instead, it offers a laid-back yet chic and stylish setting, thoughtfully arranged and bathed in natural light, thanks to its high ceilings and expansive windows. The bar is an undeniable centerpiece that commands the space, encircled by a sleek marble counter adorned with Art Deco lamps. This venue is the creation of celebrated chef Robin Gill and his wife, Sarah, with a personal touch — it’s named after Robin’s father, who toured the US as a jazz musician in the mid-20th century. Apparently, the musical legacy lives on, as Saturdays at Darby’s are filled with the soulful rhythms of Late Night Blues. And even better news: during your Thanksgiving dinner, specially curated tunes will lull you into bliss. Just an honest heads-up, though: the service can sometimes feel like a lottery, so here's hoping you strike it lucky on this special occasion and they make a real effort for you.
Thanksgiving table
On November 28th, the bar entices you to start right away with a refined Angel’s Envy Old Fashioned. Chances are, you’ll be tempted to continue with a selection of top-notch WhistlePig-based cocktails. To spark your appetite, Darby’s chefs will treat you to truffle mac & cheese croquettes, DFC chicken with hot sauce, Cornish crab sliders with Old Bay seasoning, and fried pickles before rolling out the generous spread of main courses. For the pièce de résistance, the culinary team unveils their artistry with a succulent lemon and thyme roast turkey, paired with unmissable cranberry sauce and gravy. Accompanying the showstopper come elegant Brussels tops with chestnuts as well as extra-crispy beef fat potatoes. Indulgent pumpkin pie with toasted pecan and Bourbon ice cream hit all the right notes, while those heartwarming s’mores promise to ignite sweet memories. If you share my belief that a great bottle of wine is a must-have for any Thanksgiving, Darby’s has you covered with a concise but solid list, featuring fine Pinot Noir labels like Domaine de Thalie Balancin 2022 and Gevrey Chambertin Jane Eyre 2021, standout Napa Cabernet Sauvignon from Truchard Carneros 2020, or Tuscan Chianti Superiore Fattoria di Sammontana San Firenze 2019.
Dinner: £85.00 per person
No. Fifty Cheyne is an Old Chelsea staple, widely known for its legendary beef Wellington, which you have to try at least once — though with demand through the roof, good luck snagging one! However, I have my own reasons for loving this spot. First, it’s that rare combination of refined without feeling sterile. Maybe it’s because, decades ago, this place was just a humble Victorian corner pub, still holding on to that charm, making the modern brasserie attire seem effortlessly cozy. Second, their decadent cocktail bar upstairs, with plush red interiors, offers a lovely view of the River Thames, complete with the glimmering lights of Albert Bridge. Getting back to the dining room, it is a treat for the eyes. The warm tones work together beautifully — think light brown chairs with striped backs, buttoned brown leather banquettes adorned with green cushions, and the soft, golden glow of chandeliers dripping with crystals. There’s also an abundance of gorgeous flowers that instantly create a festive vibe, even if you’re just casually popping in for breakfast. And I must give a shout-out to the seasonal decor: both inside and on the façade, the aesthetics are always impeccable!
Thanksgiving table
On Thursday, November 28th, head chef Iain Smith, celebrated for his mastery of roasties, will curate indulgent feasts, with the star of the show being the renowned bronze turkey breast with sausage and sage stuffing, maple parsnips, celeriac purée, and boulangère potatoes with Brussels sprouts. This is all accompanied by golden pigs in blankets — a nice whimsical touch. You can choose between a three-course luncheon and a two- or three-course dinner — both are very reasonably priced. For mains, you’ll also have the option of filet of hake or mushroom pappardelle. However, I highly recommend not missing out on the turkey; the chef’s interpretation is both refreshingly innovative and masterfully executed. As for starters, expect a delightful departure from the conventional, featuring delicate Jerusalem artichoke soup with honey-glazed ham, fancy white crab thermidor soufflé, and sweet citrus warm-smoked salmon. For dessert, if you can handle the absence of pumpkin or pecan, go with hot Christmas-style pudding with quince jam and white chocolate brandy sauce. No. Fifty Cheyne suggests pairing your meal with flutes or bottles of Ruinart Brut Champagne. And in Ian’s list of reds, you’ll find standout selections like Brunello di Montalcino from Fossacolle in Tuscany, Italy, and Pavillon de Léoville Poyferré from Bordeaux, France.
Lunch: £35.00 per person
3-course dinner: £58.00 per person
I hope you savor precious moments with your loved ones at these restaurants, recognized with our exclusive Thanksgiving Dinner Award. Just don’t wait too long to secure your reservation, as those exquisite turkeys are highly sought after, and tables fill up fast.
