Best restaurants near London Eye

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. 

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. 

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. 

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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