Ready to explore the culinary landscape around the London Eye? Whether you're in the mood for a luxurious meal, a hearty mid-range option, or a budget-friendly bite, we've curated the best spots just a hop, skip, and jump from this famous attraction.
High-end
Skylon
Walking distance: 5 minutes
Nearest tube: Waterloo
Cuisine: Modern European
Google rating: 4.3
Skylon offers a modern European menu that’s a feast for the senses. Nestled in the Southbank Centre, it's just a quick stroll from London Eye. The place is known for its stunning views of the River Thames, but let's talk about what you're really here for: the food. Kick off your culinary journey with the Dorset crab, accompanied by a zesty apple and fennel salad that perfectly balances the richness of the crab. For the main course, we can’t get enough of the roasted duck breast, served with caramelized plums and savoy cabbage.
Or try the Atlantic cod, cooked to perfection and accompanied by a luscious saffron risotto. Pair your meal with their signature cocktail, the "Sky High", a delightful blend of gin, elderflower, and mint, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable dining experience.
Dessert enthusiasts, the Valrhona chocolate fondant is a must-try. It arrives warm, oozing with rich chocolate and paired with homemade vanilla ice cream. It’s the ultimate indulgence to end your meal on a high note.
Gillray's Steakhouse & Bar
Walking distance: 10 minutes
Nearest tube: Westminster
Cuisine: British
Google rating: 4.5
For steak lovers, Gillray's is the place to be. Located in the luxurious Marriott County Hall, it's a short walk from the hustle and bustle of the London Eye. The star of the menu is undoubtedly the selection of British beef, sourced from the best farms in Yorkshire.
Begin with the heavenly cauliflower soup, enriched with truffle oil for an extra touch of elegance. It’s creamy, comforting, and sets the stage for what’s to come.
When it’s time for the main event, the 280g Aberdeen Angus ribeye is a showstopper. Perfectly aged and cooked to your liking, it’s succulent and full of flavour, whether paired with a classic béarnaise or a punchy peppercorn sauce.
Vegetarians, fret not! The wild mushroom and spinach wellington is equally impressive, served with a luscious mushroom jus that elevates this classic to new heights. Pair your meal with finest English sparkling wine from Nyetimber for the complete Gillray's experience.
OXO Tower Restaurant
OXO Tower Restaurant
Walking distance: 15 minutes
Nearest tube: Blackfriars
Cuisine: British
Google rating: 4.4
Perched above the London skyline, OXO Tower Restaurant offers a dining experience that’s as elevated as its location. While the stunning views are a major draw, the food steps up to the plate with equal flair.
Start with the beef tartare, a delicate dish complemented by pickled radish and egg yolk, that perfectly preps your palate. The centrepiece of your meal is the OXO beef fillet. It’s a juicy marvel topped with caramelized onions and wild garlic. Seafood lovers will want to try the roasted turbot, served with crushed potatoes and seaweed butter for a taste of the sea right in the heart of the city.
Don’t skip the wine list, which boasts a fabulous collection of wines from around the world, each selected to complement the exquisite menu. The wait staff can recommend the perfect pairing to elevate your meal.
Aqua Shard
Walking distance: 18 minutes
Nearest tube: London Bridge
Cuisine: Contemporary British
Google rating: 4.2
Aqua Shard redefines dining with its innovative menu and breathtaking views from the 31st floor. While the panoramic views of the city are dazzling, it's the food that truly shines.
You’ll want to begin your feast with Scottish scallops, served with sweet corn puree and crispy pancetta. For the main course, the slow-cooked Lancashire lamb shoulder does not disappoint. Accompanied by mint sauce and seasonal vegetables, it’s a dish that echoes classic British flavours with a contemporary twist. The vegetarian option, a delicious, charred aubergine with romesco and quinoa, is just as satisfying.
Their extensive cocktail menu deserves its own moment in the spotlight. End your meal with a rhubarb and custard tart, a modern take on a beloved British dessert.
Mid-range
Ping Pong Southbank
Walking distance: 6 minutes
Nearest tube: Waterloo
Cuisine: Dim Sum
Google rating: 4.3
For a casual yet delightful dining experience, Ping Pong Southbank offers a treasure trove of dim sum delights just a short walk from London Eye.
Start your culinary exploration with prawn and chive dumplings. These little pockets are filled with juicy prawns and fresh chives, providing a savoury bite-sized snack. If you're in the mood for more, try the sesame-seed prawn toast. Golden and crispy, they're paired delightfully with sweet chili sauce.
But Ping Pong isn’t just about dim sum. Their crispy duck spring rolls, served with hoisin sauce, offer an appetizing entry into the heartier dishes. You’ll also want to taste their aromatic chicken salad, a refreshing mix of greens and herbs with tender chicken pieces.
Giraffe
Giraffe
Walking distance: 9 minutes
Nearest tube: Waterloo
Cuisine: Global
Google rating: 4.5
Giraffe is all about diversity, with a menu that takes dining to new heights—literally—just a stone’s throw from London Eye. Their globally inspired dishes ensure you’ll find something for every palate.
Start with their famous nachos, topped with melting cheese, guacamole, and jalapeños. The main event here could be the ‘Giraffe Burger’. Perfectly grilled beef, gooey cheddar, and signature burger sauce nestled between buttery brioche. For a lighter option, their teriyaki salmon bowl, with crunchy vegetables and a spicy miso dressing, is a top contender.
Enjoy their wide range of fresh juices or opt for something stronger to sweeten the deal.
The Archduke
Walking distance: 4 minutes
Nearest tube: Waterloo
Cuisine: European
Google rating: 4.4
The Archduke combines dinner and atmosphere with live jazz happening as you dine. Located in the railway arches close to London Eye, it’s both unique and intimate.
Start your meal with their classic prawn cocktail—all fresh flavours and a hint of spice. For the main course, the beef stroganoff, with its creamy mushroom sauce, is a hit. Alternatively, the grilled sea bream, with lemon and parsley, provides a simple yet delightful alternative for seafood lovers.
Wrap up your meal with their indulgent cheesecake, featuring a smooth and velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
Locale Southbank
Walking distance: 7 minutes
Nearest tube: Lambeth North
Cuisine: Italian
Google rating: 4.3
Locale Southbank, just a short walk from the London Eye, serves up authentic Italian cuisine.
Begin with their bruschetta pomodoro, a fresh take on a classic starter, topped with ripe tomatoes and basil. The main courses are equally tempting. The house favourite is homemade tagliatelle with truffle and mushrooms, but pizza lovers are catered to too - the "Locale Special" topped with creamy burrata and spicy salami.
Enjoy a glass of their fine Italian wine, expertly chosen to complement the meal. Or, if cocktails are more your style, the Aperol Spritz offers a delightful citrusy kick that's light and refreshing.
Budget-friendly
Honest Burgers South Bank
Walking distance: 6 minutes
Nearest tube: Waterloo
Cuisine: Burgers
Google rating: 4.6
Looking for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank? Honest Burgers South Bank is the place to go. Conveniently located near London Eye, this spot is known for serving up some of the finest burgers in town.
Their signature Honest Burger is a must, featuring a juicy beef patty, fresh lettuce, and red onion, all nestled in a soft brioche bun. Vegetarian? The Plant Burger, with its tasty veggie patty and house sauce, ensures everyone can enjoy a hearty bite. Pair either with their signature rosemary fries and make the most of your visit.
Enjoy pairing your meal with their refreshing homemade lemonade or opt for a local craft beer to enhance your burger experience. And grab their deliciously gooey brownie for dessert.
The Thames Bakery
The Thames Bakery
Walking distance: 5 minutes
Nearest tube: Waterloo
Cuisine: Bakery/Café
Google rating: 4.4
A charming spot near London Eye, The Thames Bakery is your go-to for quick bites and delightful pastries. Whether you're in need of a light breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack, this place will not disappoint.
Kick things off with their buttery croissants, freshly baked every day. For a heartier option, their selection of savoury pies stands out. The cheese and onion pasty is the perfect grab-and-go meal. If you have a sweet tooth, try their tempting chocolate eclairs.
Coffee lovers will appreciate their expertly brewed selections, ideal for pairing with a pastry or two.
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Bao Southbank
Walking distance: 8 minutes
Nearest tube: Southwark
Cuisine: Taiwanese
Google rating: 4.5
For a unique and budget-friendly meal, Bao Southbank offers delicious Taiwanese bites that are big on flavour. Just a short walk from London Eye, it's a perfect pit stop for an exciting dining experience.
Start with the classic bao buns filled with tender pork. Their fried chicken bao, with crunchy cabbage and spicy sauce, is another highlight. It’s crispy, fresh, and a definite crowd-pleaser. Don’t overlook the sides—the sweet potato fries, seasoned with seaweed powder, bring an exotic twist to a classic favourite.
Wash it all down with a refreshing iced tea or opt for a bubble milk tea if you're feeling adventurous. And finish your meal with their unique deep-fried bao, served with a side of creamy condensed milk.
Borough Market Stalls
Walking distance: 15 minutes
Nearest tube: London Bridge
Cuisine: Various
Google rating: 4.7
If you’re looking for variety and affordability, head to Borough Market. It's a 15-minute walk from the London Eye, but worth every step for the culinary adventure that awaits. With a vast array of vendors, you can sample the best of Britain and beyond.
Start with a scotch egg from Scotchtails, offering a delightful mix of crispy coating and rich, savoury filling. Next, try Kappacasein’s raclette—oozing cheese served over potatoes and vegetables.
For dessert, Bad Brownie’s stall will catch your eye. Their array of sweets are decadent, with options like salted caramel and peanut butter to satisfy your sweet tooth. And round off your visit with a freshly squeezed juice or a locally brewed ale.
Make the most of your London trip with the city’s best hidden gems, and burn off some of those calories with our picks of the capital’s top walking tours!
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