Indulge in London’s most exclusive festive dining experiences

With the smell of mulled wine and sweet treats from Christmas markets drifting through the air, families and friends are starting to consider where they should dine for the most exciting season of the year…

Festive Dining at the Pem

London has a plethora of excellent restaurants to test out this holiday period, but sometimes we just want to step away from the bustling crowds and find a secluded spot for the people we know and love. So, when looking for something a bit more private for a cozy or luxurious dining experience, we have come up with a list of our top 5 most exclusive festive restaurants in London:

1. The Pem

The Pem, Conrad London St. James, 22-28 Broadway, Westminster, London SW1H 0BH

Described by SquareMeal as “one of the most beautiful dining rooms in London”, The Harben Room at The Pem is obviously our number one choice. With new menus for Christmas lunch and New Year’s Eve just released, the outstanding festive dining experiences will have you rocking around Conrad’s Christmas Tree! With great options for intimate lunches and group dinners, there is something for everyone at The Pem, but The Harben Room is perfect for those festive celebrations and private dining experiences, with space for 22 guests. You can pre-select menus of up to 5 courses from their set menus, or for the ultimate culinary experience, Chef Sally Abé and her team can create a fully bespoke menu for your private event or celebration. Bookings get snatched up fast, so lock yours in while you can!

2. Claridge’s Restaurant

Claridge’s Restaurant, Brook Street, Mayfair, London W1K 4HR

Claridge’s Restaurant, which welcomed its first guests in September 2023, has swiftly become a standout presence in London’s prestigious fine-dining scene, and is another great option for an extravagant office blowout or Christmas lunches in London. An exciting new addition to this establishment is its exclusive private dining room, accommodating up to eight patrons and adorned with a stunning hand-painted mural at its core. The room’s dusky pink decor is centered around a pine-wood table, elegantly covered in white tablecloths, where the restaurant’s enticing à la carte menu is expertly presented. Their private dining room can host parties of up to eight guests.

3. Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill

Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill, 11 Swallow Street, W1B 4DG

Though closed on Christmas Day itself, Bentley’s has some fantastic options for private dining experiences and a festive dining in London in the run up to the big day. Having been standing for more than a century, Bentley’s remains a cherished destination for those seeking fresh oysters, expertly grilled fish, and the timeless British steak.

Elevate your festive celebrations by reserving the beautifully adorned Swallow rooms, complete with a private entrance, a piano, state-of-the-art music system, and a fully stocked bar.

4. Aqua Shard

Aqua Shard, Level 31, The Shard, 31 St Thomas St, London SE1 9RY

For a festive evening meal with a view, head to level 31 of The Shard to look out over stunning panoramic views of the Christmas lights while enjoying a menu of contemporary British cuisine and innovative cocktails. The unique glass private dining room can seat up to 30 guests on three round tables and up to 60 guests for a standing reception.

5. The Midland Grand Dining Room

The Midland Grand Dining Room, St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel, Euston Road, London NW1 2AR

Designed by the esteemed Parisian architect Hugo Toro, the hotel sparkles with a harmonious fusion of Victorian enchantment and contemporary sophistication. For a cozy gathering during this joyful season, they offer a Private Dining Room, which can host up to 14 guests, or the Chef’s Table, perfect for a party of 8.

For a slightly grander holiday celebration or a festive soirée, their main restaurant seats up to 86 merry diners or accommodate 150 guests if standing. The Gothic Bar and enchanting terrace can also hold up to 250 guests for lively receptions, private events, and festive celebrations.