Trafalgar Square Dining: 10 Must-Visit Places

Located at the beating heart of Central London and named after Lord Nelson’s victory over the French and Spanish at the Battle of Trafalgar, Trafalgar Square has been a gathering place for tourists and locals since 1844. There is much to see—ranging from Nelson’s Column, guarded by four bronze lions, to the Fourth Plinth, which showcases a changing roster of provocative contemporary sculptures. Moreover, Trafalgar Square is also home to the National Gallery. If you find yourself feeling peckish, there are countless restaurants within a few minutes’ walk. In this article, we explore 10 of the best dining options surrounding this iconic square.

Café on the Square

If you can’t tear yourself away from the hustle and bustle of Trafalgar, make your way to Café on the Square, located at the bottom of the central staircase connecting the plaza to the National Gallery above. Outdoor chairs and tables are excellent for people-watching and catching some sun in summer, while the menu features traditional British café fare. Expect homemade sandwiches, delicious cakes, and cream teas in season. The café is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in summer and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter.

The Admiralty

Address: 66 Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DS, UK
Phone: +44 20 7930 0066
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The Admiralty pub overlooks Nelson’s Column and pays tribute to his flagship, the HMS Victory, featuring wood paneling and vintage nautical decor. As London’s most central pub, it is renowned for offering Fuller’s best cask ales on tap. Order a pint of London Pride and pair it with traditional fish and chips or a hand-crafted pie. If you’re indecisive, opt for a pie and ale tasting board. The pub opens at 9 a.m. daily (10 a.m. on Sundays) and serves full English breakfasts as well.

Café in the Crypt

Address: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 4JH, UK
Phone: +44 20 7766 1158
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A short two-minute walk from Trafalgar Square leads you to the 18th-century church St. Martin-in-the-Fields. Underneath this remarkable church lies Café in the Crypt, a true London gem featuring original vaulted brick ceilings and tombstones embedded in the floor. The food is served buffet style and is prepared with sustainable, British, and Fairtrade ingredients. Highly regarded for both taste and value, this café also contributes to the upkeep of the church. Open daily from 10 a.m. (11 a.m. on Sundays), it is a delightful stop.

Tandoor Chop House

Address: 8 Adelaide Street, London WC2N 4HZ, UK
Phone: +44 20 3096 0359
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Just a three-minute walk away, the Covent Garden restaurant Tandoor Chop House receives rave reviews from diners and critics alike. Combining British chop house elements with a North Indian communal atmosphere, it serves mouthwatering meat cuts, seasoned with Indian spices and marinades, cooked in traditional tandoor ovens. Share small plates or indulge in specialties like chickpea and beef kheema. The restaurant is open from midday until late, Monday to Saturday, and from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays.

Portrait Restaurant & Bar

Address: Saint Martin’s Place, London WC2H 0HE, UK
Phone: +44 20 7306 0055
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For a sophisticated dining experience, consider Portrait Restaurant & Bar, situated on the top floor of the National Portrait Gallery. This restaurant is especially known for its exquisite British cuisine, with specials that include pheasant and South Coast sole. Large windows enhance your dining experience with breathtaking views of iconic London landmarks like Nelson’s Column and the Houses of Parliament. Whether for brunch, afternoon tea, or a pre-theater dinner, Portrait is a fantastic choice for any occasion.

Rules

Address: 34-35 Maiden Lane, London WC2E 7LB, UK
Phone: +44 20 7836 5314
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Established in 1798, Rules is London’s oldest restaurant. Its rich red and gold decor is adorned with drawings and paintings from its storied past, having hosted numerous celebrities from stage and screen. Renowned for oysters, pies, and puddings, Rules also specializes in classic game dishes sourced from its own estate in the High Pennines. This Covent Garden gem is just a seven-minute walk from Trafalgar Square.

Barrafina

Address: 10 Adelaide Street, London WC2N 4HZ, UK
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If you’re craving Spanish cuisine, Barrafina on Adelaide Street is the closest of four London locations. Just a four-minute walk away, guests sit on red leather stools at the marble-topped bar and watch chefs prepare authentic tapas. Pair your dishes with a glass of Spanish wine, Cava, or sherry. Barrafina is open daily for lunch and dinner, and accommodates groups of up to four people on a walk-in basis, so be prepared to wait for a spot at the bar.

Vespa Italian Restaurant

Address: 9a Irving Street, London WC2H 7AH, UK
Phone: +44 20 7839 6678
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Situated conveniently between the National Portrait Gallery and Leicester Square, independent Vespa Italian Restaurant is just a three-minute walk from Trafalgar Square. With its exposed brick walls and friendly staff, this eatery is a welcome alternative to ubiquitous pizza chains. The menu includes artisanal pizzas, creamy risottos, and fresh pastas. In summer, enjoy aperitifs at one of the pavement tables for a charming Italian ambiance.

B Bakery

Enhance your Trafalgar experience with a touch of Parisian chic by visiting B Bakery, located just five minutes away. Choose delicious macarons, cupcakes, tarts, and pastries from the enticing display; alternatively, arrange a traditional afternoon tea 24 hours in advance. The bakery also caters to vegan, vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free diets. For a unique experience, consider embarking on one of B Bakery’s Afternoon Tea Bus Tours, allowing you to sip tea while taking in famous attractions like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey onboard a vintage double-decker bus.

Kanada-Ya

If you crave delicious ramen, take a six-minute walk to the Panton Street branch of Kanada-Ya. This Japanese chain specializes in tonkotsu ramen but also offers authentic rice dishes and small plates. They provide a special menu for kids and an allergen menu that clearly indicates food options for individuals with dietary restrictions. Complement your meal with chilled or hot sake, or choose from a selection of Japanese whiskies and beers. Kanada-Ya also has additional branches in Covent Garden and Angel.