Best Restaurants in London Bridge: Top Places to Eat Near Borough Market

London Bridge has become one of London’s most exciting food districts. Steps from Borough Market and moments from the river, this neighbourhood blends historic arches with modern dining rooms. 

From Neapolitan pizza at ‘O Ver to fresh seafood at Fish! Kitchen, each restaurant here offers a sit-down experience worth slowing down for. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, a date-night dinner, or a relaxed meal with friends, these are the best restaurants near Borough Market and London Bridge.

TL;DR: Where to Eat Near Borough Market and London Bridge

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick guide to standout restaurants near Borough Market and London Bridge:

• ‘O Ver Borough – authentic Neapolitan pizza with seawater dough
  
  

• Fish! Kitchen – sustainably sourced seafood and classic fish and chips
  
  

• Padella – handmade pasta served at the counter
  
  

• El Pastor – Mexican tacos and small plates bursting with spice
  
  

• Elliot’s – seasonal British cooking and natural wine
  
  

• Flat Iron Square – a lively mix of global kitchens and bars
  
  

• Roast – modern British dishes overlooking the market
  
  

• BAO Borough – sleek Taiwanese street-food buns and rice bowls
  
  

• Caravan Bankside – global plates and speciality coffee in a relaxed setting
  
  

• Hawksmoor Borough – British steakhouse dining beneath the arches

Go early for lunch or book ahead for dinner. These are the restaurants locals return to again and again.

10 Best Restaurants in London Bridge

London Bridge’s dining scene is diverse, with everything from quick lunch stops to refined date-night venues. The following restaurants are grouped by dining style to help you find what suits your mood and occasion best.

Fancy some authentic Italian food? Reserve a table at ‘O Ver Borough in London Bridge.

Casual Eats and Local Favourites

If you’re after something laid-back, these restaurants keep the quality high without the fuss. Perfect for quick lunches or spontaneous dinners near the market.

Padella

A London pasta favourite known for handmade tagliarini and cacio e pepe served at the counter. It’s always busy, but the queue moves quickly, and the quality makes it worth the wait. Perfect for an affordable, authentic meal near Borough Market.

Caravan Bankside

Caravan brings a relaxed, industrial edge to London Bridge dining. Expect global flavours and small plates such as jalapeño cornbread, harissa eggs, and slow-roasted lamb. With an all-day menu, it’s ideal for brunch, coffee, or a casual dinner close to the market.

Flat Iron Square

Flat Iron Square combines several street-food kitchens, bars, and cafés under one roof. You’ll find everything from tacos to wood-fired pizza, with outdoor seating that makes it ideal for groups. Good value for informal meals or drinks near London Bridge.

El Pastor

This lively Mexican taqueria serves freshly made tortillas and tacos packed with spice and freshness. Dishes like the al pastor pork or crispy fish tacos are crowd favourites. A great pick for a fun, informal meal within walking distance of Borough Market.

BAO Borough

BAO Borough offers Taiwanese buns, rice bowls, and sides in a sleek, minimal setting just beside the market. Signature dishes like the classic pork bao and fried chicken attract a steady lunchtime crowd. It’s a modern addition to the London Bridge food scene that blends trend with comfort.

Elevated Dining and Date-Night Spots

London Bridge has some of the most atmospheric restaurants near Borough Market for romantic dining and special occasions.

‘O Ver Borough

A short walk from the market, ‘O Ver serves authentic Neapolitan pizza made with seawater dough alongside refined Italian plates. The seafood linguine and San Daniele pizza are standout dishes. It’s relaxed yet elegant, ideal for an evening meal near London Bridge.

For more Italian dining options, see our Italian restaurants near Borough Market guide.

Elliot’s

Elliot’s blends natural wines with fire-cooked seasonal dishes in a bright, pared-back dining room. The focus is on simple ingredients handled with care, from grilled mackerel to wood-fired flatbreads. It’s one of the area’s most reliable spots for a quiet, thoughtful dinner.

Hawksmoor Borough

Hawksmoor delivers classic British steakhouse dining beneath the market’s brick arches. Grass-fed beef, triple-cooked chips, and rich sauces make it a local favourite for special occasions. One of the area’s higher-end options, with a moody, low-lit setting that’s perfect for date nights or indulgent evenings out.

British Classics and Market-Inspired Menus

These restaurants celebrate British produce, seasonal menus, and recipes that reflect the market’s heritage.

Roast

Located above the market’s Floral Hall, Roast celebrates British cooking with a view over the stalls below. Dishes like roast pork belly, Yorkshire puddings, and Sunday roasts showcase top-quality produce from nearby traders. Expect a premium feel with produce from local suppliers in the heart of SE1.

Fish! Kitchen

Fish! Kitchen specialises in fresh, sustainable seafood sourced daily from Borough Market. Classic fish and chips share the menu with grilled sea bass and oysters at the counter. The atmosphere is relaxed, the portions generous, and the fish consistently excellent.

FAQs: Dining Near London Bridge and Borough Market

What are the best restaurants in London Bridge for date night?

Hawksmoor Borough, Elliot’s, and ‘O Ver are top picks for their service, atmosphere, and refined menus.

Where can I find casual dining near Borough Market?

Padella, BAO Borough, and Flat Iron Square all offer quality food in relaxed settings within a few minutes’ walk of the market.

Are there good vegetarian or vegan options in London Bridge?

Yes. Elliot’s offers excellent vegetarian dishes, while Caravan Bankside and BAO have several plant-based choices.

Which restaurants near London Bridge stay open late?

Hawksmoor Borough and Flat Iron Square both serve until around 11 p.m., making them good options for dinner after exploring the area.

Is it necessary to book in advance?

Padella and Hawksmoor often have queues or limited availability, so booking ahead or arriving early is recommended.

What time do most restaurants near London Bridge open?

Most open by 11 a.m., with lunch service starting around noon and dinner continuing into the evening.

Are there good seafood restaurants near London Bridge?

Fish! Kitchen is a top choice for fresh, sustainable seafood near Borough Market, offering dishes such as grilled sea bass and classic fish and chips.

Is ‘O Ver Borough known for authentic Italian food?

Yes, ‘O Ver Borough is celebrated for genuine Neapolitan pizza made with a unique seawater dough recipe, alongside a menu full of traditional Italian dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients.

Final Thoughts

London Bridge’s food scene continues to evolve, offering everything from quick bites to refined dining experiences just steps from Borough Market. Whether you’re meeting friends for pasta, celebrating with steak, or trying something new, this area delivers variety and quality in equal measure.

Many London Bridge restaurants base their menus around seasonal produce from Borough Market, ensuring dishes are fresh and reflect the changing seasons. For food stalls, market snacks, and takeaway eats, see our Borough Market Food Guide for a look inside the market and its various food stalls.

Ready to taste some of the standout food at Borough Market? Reserve your table at ‘O Ver Borough and enjoy Italian food and wine worth returning to.

About the author:
This guide was written by the team at 'O Ver London, an independent restaurant based five minutes from Borough Market. We visit regularly to keep these recommendations current and accurate.