Where to Eat St James’s London: 5 Must-Try Restaurants in St James’s Market
Jul 28, 2025
St James’s Market is starting to make a name for itself in London’s West End. It used to be just another area near Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. Now, it’s attracting food lovers with an exciting range of dining options. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this neighbourhood offers some of the best choices for where to eat in St James’s London.
TLDR: Quick Guide to St James’s Market Restaurants
‘O Ver St James’s: Neapolitan pizza with sea water dough — try the Margherita DOP or San Daniele pizza.
Aquavit: Nordic fine dining with British seasonal ingredients — don’t miss the King Crab and Cloudberry dessert.
Scully: Modern British cuisine focused on local produce — order the Roast Cornish Lamb or Rhubarb Tart.
The Wigmore: Seasonal British classics served elegantly — the Pan-Seared Sea Bass and Eton Mess are highlights.
Andrew Edmunds: European comfort food in a Georgian townhouse — Beef Wellington and Sticky Toffee Pudding are crowd-pleasers.
The best times to visit these West End dining spots vary, but weekday lunchtimes and early dinners are generally quieter and easier for reservations.
St James’s Market’s Journey to Becoming a Premier Dining Spot
St James’s Market has been around since the 1600s. Back then, it was a busy place where fresh produce and goods changed hands every day. Now, it’s something quite different. The area has grown into a lively spot full of restaurants and bars that reflect the energy of London’s West End.
It’s a place where old meets new. Historic streets sit alongside modern kitchens, creating exciting flavours. If you want to find great food in the heart of the city, St James’s Market is a neighbourhood worth exploring.
1. ‘O Ver St James’s: Neapolitan Pizza with a Twist
‘O Ver is known for its authentic Neapolitan pizza. The dough is made using sea water, which gives it a unique flavour and texture. The crust is light and crisp but soft inside. Try the Margherita DOP. It’s a simple pizza with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil that hits all the right notes.
For something a bit richer, the San Daniele pizza combines cured ham with creamy stracciatella cheese and a drizzle of truffle oil. Their fried mozzarella fritters are also a great way to start.
If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during weekday lunch or a weekend afternoon. Evenings get busy, so booking is a good idea then.
Book your table at ‘O Ver St James to experience authentic Neapolitan pizza.
2. Aquavit: Scandinavian Fine Dining Meets British Ingredients
Aquavit offers a calm, refined dining experience. It blends Nordic cooking with British seasonal produce. The King Crab with Lovage and Rye is a dish you won’t forget. It’s fresh and earthy with a delicate balance of flavours. The Char with Beets and Horseradish combines smoky fish with tangy vegetables. Finish with the Cloudberry and Vanilla Cream for a light, refreshing dessert.
Midweek evenings tend to be quieter. That’s when you can really appreciate the atmosphere and the careful craftsmanship in every dish.
3. Scully: Bold British Flavours with a Creative Twist
At Scully, local British ingredients take centre stage, but the dishes never feel predictable at this St James eatery. Take the Roast Cornish Lamb with Mint and Peas, for example. It’s tender. It’s packed with flavour, with just the right hint of mint to lift the dish.
If you fancy something meat-free, the Heirloom Beetroot Salad with Goats Cheese offers a fresh, vibrant alternative. And for dessert, their Rhubarb and Ginger Tart delivers a perfect balance of tartness and warming spice.
If you want a quieter meal, midweek evenings work best here. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in and savour every bite without feeling rushed.
4. The Wigmore: British Classics, Reimagined
The Wigmore has earned a reputation for doing British classics well. Their Pan-Seared Sea Bass with Samphire and Brown Butter tastes like the seaside on a plate. It’s simple, fresh, and wholly satisfying.
The Slow-Cooked Pork Belly with Apple Purée balances richness with a touch of sweetness, making it a real crowd-pleaser. Finish with Eton Mess, a traditional dessert that never gets old.
Lunchtime here is pretty peaceful, perfect if you need a calm break in the middle of a busy day. It’s also a smart choice for business lunches thanks to its polished yet relaxed atmosphere.
5. Andrew Edmunds: Timeless Charm and European Comfort
Just a short walk from St James’s Market, Andrew Edmunds sits in a charming Georgian townhouse. The atmosphere is cosy and inviting. Think flickering candlelight and old-world charm.
The Beef Wellington is a standout, classic dish executed flawlessly. If you prefer something vegetarian, the Wild Mushroom Risotto is rich and comforting. Don’t skip dessert: their Sticky Toffee Pudding is the perfect end to any meal here.
Weekday evenings tend to be less busy, giving you more space to enjoy the setting and the food at your own pace.
Why St James’s Market Should Be Your Next Dining Spot
This area offers a refreshing mix of cuisines and dining styles. From the lively buzz of ‘O ver’s pizza ovens to the refined calm at Aquavit, there’s something here for every taste and mood. It’s easy to get to thanks to nearby Piccadilly Circus and Green Park stations, and it’s close to several theatres if you’re planning a night out.
Booking ahead is wise on weekends. But if you’re after a quieter experience, try going for weekday lunch or early dinner. St James’s Market is steadily becoming one of London’s most exciting food neighbourhoods. Now you know where to dine in London’s St James’s Market, why not see for yourself?