Restaurants Near Trafalgar Square: 12 Great Places Within a 10 Minute Walk
Nov 11, 2025
(Updated November 2025 – venues verified and locally reviewed)
Trafalgar Square sits at the centre of London’s cultural map. Between the National Gallery, the theatres of the West End and the streets leading to Covent Garden, you’re surrounded by places to eat – but not every option nearby lives up to the view. It sits between Whitehall, The Strand, and Charing Cross, making it one of the city’s most convenient spots for eating.
Within a few minutes of Nelson’s Column, you’ll find restaurants that locals actually rate: dependable spots for quick lunches, pre-theatre dinners or unhurried evenings after a day of sightseeing. This guide highlights the best restaurants within a ten-minute walk, chosen for quality, atmosphere and consistency.
TL;DR: Best Restaurants Near Trafalgar Square
’O Ver St James – Authentic Neapolitan pizza and pasta made with sea water dough, an eight-minute walk from the square.
Gouqi London – Elegant modern Chinese dining with standout dim sum and lacquered duck.
Tandoor Chop House – Indian-British grillhouse with smoky meats and a lively atmosphere.
The Admiralty – Classic British pub right on Trafalgar Square, perfect for roasts or pies.
Bancone Covent Garden – Sleek Italian spot known for fresh handmade pasta and counter dining.
Joe Allen – West End favourite serving American brasserie dishes before and after shows.
The Delaunay – Viennese-style brasserie near Aldwych offering refined European comfort food.
Walkers of Whitehall – Modern British pub tucked behind the square with great value and local feel.
Top Restaurants Near Trafalgar Square (Within Five Minutes)
If you’d rather stay close to the square, these restaurants around Trafalgar Square deliver great food without the chaos of the main thoroughfares.
The Admiralty – 1-minute walk
Sitting directly on Trafalgar Square, The Admiralty is a Fuller’s gastropub that does British comfort food properly. Expect flaky pies, hearty roasts and seasonal mains in a room lined with brass fittings and dark wood. Prices stay reasonable given the location, and the service is quick enough for a pre-gallery lunch or early dinner before a show.
Located beside Charing Cross Station, it’s a reliable stop for commuters or visitors heading down Whitehall.
Gouqi London – 3-minute walk
On nearby Cockspur Street, Gouqi brings a fine-dining polish to modern Chinese cooking. The menu moves from delicate dim sum to lacquered duck served with ritual precision, while the dining room feels calm and contemporary.
It’s one of the few genuinely elegant options this close to the square and a reliable choice for business lunches or quiet dinners. You’ll find it opposite the National Gallery and only a short walk from Piccadilly Circus.
Tandoor Chop House – 4-minute walk
Hidden just off Northumberland Avenue, Tandoor Chop House combines the flavours of India’s grill houses with British cuts of meat. The tandoor chicken and smoky lamb chops are standouts, the naan arrives still warm from the oven, and the buzz inside never quite stops.
Prices sit comfortably mid-range, making it an easy pick for sharing plates or lively group dinners. Tucked between Northumberland Avenue and Whitehall Place, it’s easy to reach from the Embankment or the square itself.
Walkers of Whitehall – 5-minute walk
Down a side street behind the square, Walkers is a stylish modern pub spread over three floors. The menu runs from fish and chips to small plates and a strong brunch on weekends. Upstairs is bright and relaxed; downstairs turns into a lively bar once the evening crowd arrives.
It’s close enough for convenience but just tucked away enough to feel like a local find. Down a side street behind the square, this hidden gem is one of the best places to eat near Trafalgar Square.
More Great Restaurants Around Trafalgar Square (Within Ten Minutes)
A short walk down The Strand, across Charing Cross Road, or towards Covent Garden opens up even more choice. These restaurants stay within a ten-minute radius of Trafalgar Square yet offer a wider mix of styles and settings.
Simpson’s in The Strand – 6-minute walk
One of London’s most historic dining rooms, Simpson’s has been serving traditional British roasts since the nineteenth century. Silver trolleys glide between tables carrying carved beef and Yorkshire pudding, while portraits of past patrons line the walls.
Prices are on the higher side, but the experience feels timeless – a perfect stop for anyone craving classic London hospitality. It’s close to Somerset House and a few minutes from Embankment Pier, making it ideal for a pre-theatre dinner before crossing the river.
The Coal Hole – 7-minute walk
Further along The Strand, this Victorian pub from Fuller’s keeps things simple: pies, sausage and mash, and plenty of cask ale. It’s busy without being frantic and has a cosy cellar feel once you’re inside. A great choice for travellers looking for hearty British food at fair prices and a proper pint.
Bancone Covent Garden – 7-minute walk
Cross into Covent Garden and you’ll find Bancone, a sleek Italian restaurant famous for its handmade pasta. Counter seating faces the open kitchen where chefs fold silky ribbons of tagliatelle and gnocchi.
It’s mid-priced, stylish and always lively, making it one of the area’s most dependable spots for dinner or a late lunch. Right in the West End, it’s close to several theatres and ideal for pre-show meals.
Joe Allen – 8-minute walk
Tucked behind The Lyceum Theatre, Joe Allen has long been the West End’s backstage canteen. The mood is warm and bustling, the menu a mix of American brasserie staples and comfort dishes. It’s particularly good for pre-theatre dining and draws a diverse blend of locals and performers.
Expect generous portions and friendly service rather than fine dining formality. It also connects easily to Soho and the West End, perfect for late-night drinks after dinner.
The Delaunay – 9-minute walk
Near Aldwych, The Delaunay brings Viennese-style elegance to central London. Dark wood panelling, white tablecloths and uniformed waiters give it an old-world charm that feels rare now.
Breakfasts here are as strong as evening service, and while prices reflect the polish, it’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting something refined but not intimidating. The Delaunay sits between Aldwych and Covent Garden, about a ten-minute walk from Trafalgar Square.
Breakfast and Brunch Near Trafalgar Square
If you’re starting early, a few cafés close to Trafalgar Square serve breakfast worth seeking out. Each of these sits within a short walk and avoids the chaos of nearby chains.
Ole & Steen – 2-minute walk
On St Martin’s Lane, Ole & Steen brings a bit of Copenhagen calm to the West End. The Danish bakery’s cinnamon socials, open sandwiches and strong coffee make it a favourite for locals and office regulars. Grab a seat upstairs for a quiet breakfast before the crowds arrive, or take something to go and eat on the steps of the National Gallery.
Notes Coffee Roasters – 3-minute walk
Just around the corner, Notes pairs excellent coffee with light breakfast plates, pastries and a few simple brunch dishes. The space feels relaxed and unhurried, with floor-to-ceiling windows that catch the morning light. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a slower start to the day before moving on to the galleries or shops.
The National Gallery Café – right on the square
Inside the gallery itself, this café offers breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea with a view of the fountains. The menu leans European, with poached eggs, pastries and salads. Service starts early enough for those heading into morning exhibitions. It’s convenient, comfortable and much better than the average museum café.
Restaurants Near Trafalgar Square by Cuisine
Within ten minutes around Trafalgar Square London, you can eat your way across the world. Here are a few reliable places for every craving – from handmade pasta to modern Indian grills and old-school British comfort.
Italian Restaurants Near Trafalgar Square
‘O Ver St James – 8 minute walk
South of the square in St James’s Market, ‘O Ver St James brings authentic Neapolitan flavours to a sleek modern setting. The dough is made with pure sea water from the Mediterranean and the pizza has a soft, blistered crust that rivals anything in Naples.
It’s the best Italian restaurant within walking distance and a favourite for those who value quality over hype. Check out our food menu to see for yourself.
For more recommendations like this, see our Best Pasta in London guide.
Bancone Covent Garden – 7-minute walk
Modern, buzzy and always consistent, Bancone serves freshly rolled pasta at a long marble counter. It’s ideal for solo dining or casual dates and priced fairly for its quality.
Cicchetti Covent Garden – 8-minute walk
An elegant small-plate restaurant where the menu reads like a Venetian market stall – seafood, risotto and colourful antipasti served all day.
Indian
Tandoor Chop House – 4-minute walk
Bold northern Indian flavours meet British grill-house style. Expect smoky meats, blistered naan and a lively atmosphere that feels more Soho than tourist district.
Colonel Saab Trafalgar Square – 5-minute walk
An art-filled restaurant inside a converted bank, serving refined versions of Indian classics with elegant presentation. A great choice for dinner near Charing Cross or the National Gallery.
Dishoom Covent Garden – 9-minute walk
A London institution for good reason. Bombay-style comfort food, exceptional service and a nostalgic interior that’s perfect for both breakfast and late-night dining.
British Food Near Trafalgar Square
Simpson’s in The Strand – 6-minute walk
Simpson’s has been a London landmark since the 1800s, and is famous for silver-service roast carving and traditional puddings. Pricey but worth it for the history.
The Admiralty – 1 minute walk
A gastropub on the square itself serving seasonal mains, pies and hearty roasts in a ship-themed setting that feels unmistakably British.
The Coal Hole – 7-minute walk
The Victorian pub with polished wood, ale on tap and reliable comfort food. It’s casual, affordable and full of charm.
Asian Fusion & Chinese
Gouqi London – 3-minute walk
Polished Chinese dining just off Cockspur Street. Refined dim sum, Peking duck and faultless service make it one of the smartest restaurants near the square.
Baozi Inn – 8-minute walk
A casual Chinatown favourite serving Sichuan dumplings and noodle soups. Great for a quick lunch when you want real flavour without the formality.
Vegetarian and Halal-Friendly
Ole & Steen – 2-minute walk
Danish bakery with plenty of vegetarian sandwiches and salads made fresh throughout the day.
The National Gallery Café – on the square
Vegetarian-friendly dishes, soups and salads with early opening hours for visitors.
Tandoor Chop House – 4-minute walk
Offers certified halal chicken and lamb, making it a solid choice for mixed-diet groups.
European & Seafood
The Delaunay – 9-minute walk
A grand brasserie inspired by Vienna and Berlin, serving schnitzel, seafood and fine pastries. Elegant without being stiff.
Joe Allen – 8 minute walk
Theatre-district classic offering American-European comfort dishes, strong cocktails and live-in energy before curtain up.
Read our London Pre-Theatre Dinner guide to find more of the best places to eat before a show in the capital.
Parsons – 9-minute walk
A small seafood restaurant near Covent Garden with white-tiled walls and daily-caught specials. Unpretentious, perfectly cooked and fairly priced.
Plan Your Visit: Where to Eat Near Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square sits at the heart of London life. Whether you’re heading to the National Gallery, strolling down Whitehall, or catching a show in the West End, great food is never far away. The restaurants in this guide combine quality, value, and atmosphere within a ten-minute walk.
Several restaurants near Trafalgar Square serve late into the evening, including Joe Allen and Walkers of Whitehall. Most kitchens close around ten, but bars nearby stay open later for drinks or dessert.
From Covent Garden to Leicester Square, the restaurants near Trafalgar Square prove that central London dining can be as memorable as the landmarks themselves.
Book your table at 'O Ver St James today to experience the best Italian dining experience near Trafalgar Square..
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best restaurants near Trafalgar Square?
’O Ver St James is often named among the best, serving authentic Neapolitan pizza made with sea water dough in a stylish setting just eight minutes away. Other strong contenders include Bancone for handmade pasta and Gouqi for refined Chinese dishes.
Where can I eat before a West End show near Trafalgar Square?
’O Ver St James is ideal for pre-theatre dining, offering quick service and consistently high-quality Italian food close to the major theatres. Joe Allen and The Delaunay are also reliable choices for dinner before curtain-up.
What are the most affordable restaurants near Trafalgar Square?
Walkers of Whitehall, The Coal Hole, and Ole & Steen all offer good value without sacrificing quality. For mid-range prices and standout flavour, ’O Ver St James is a strong option too.
What is the best pub near Trafalgar Square?
The Admiralty sits directly on the square and serves British classics with Fuller’s ales. Walkers of Whitehall is another favourite nearby, with a relaxed atmosphere and modern British menu.
Is there a good Italian restaurant near Trafalgar Square?
Yes, ’O Ver St James is widely regarded as the best Italian restaurant within walking distance. The pizza and pasta are made using premium southern-Italian ingredients, making it a standout for quality and authenticity.