The 7 Best Restaurants near the Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the most iconic pieces of architecture located in the bustling city center of London – England’s capital. With people flocking here from all over the world to get a good look at sights like Big Ben, the Eye, Westminster Abbey, The Thames River, and much more, it is no wonder that the Tower of London often tops the list. With a rich history that is compelling and mysterious, visiting here on one of the typical cloudy and rainy days sets the mood for learning about some dark pieces of history that England would rather forget. 

If you want to brighten the mood after a tour around the (possibly haunted) Tower of London, there is no shortage of chefs, pubs, coffee shops, and lunch spots that are ideal for fighting off the midday hunger. Let’s see a few spots that are ideal for you and your family to stop for breakfast pre-tour, lunch post-tour, or drinks after exploring the surrounding area.

Breakfast or Lunch: De Vine

Full Irish breakfast

Looking to have a no-fuss lunch with a big portion, tasty food, and an unpretentious atmosphere? Head to De Vine – after all, this is where all the locals are going! If you have spent any amount of time around London, you know that you can’t eat at the “normal” restaurants forever – it would simply cost a fortune that you cannot spend on a regular basis. However, finding the local hidden gems with cheaper alternatives to £40 lunches is key – and De Vine is one of them.

Located on Vine Street, this unassuming lunch spot has a laid-back cafe atmosphere, offering sandwiches, salads, huge English breakfasts, coffees, and much more – all for usually under £7. 

Hours: Monday – Friday 6:00-16:00 

Brunch: The Duck and Waffle

Waffles with strawberries – By By Parkerman & Christie from San Diego, USA – Crispy Waffles with Strawberries, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3600365

We hate to say it, but if you have never had fried chicken and waffles you are seriously missing something in your life. No worries – if not, head to The Duck and Waffle for some of the tastiest and indulgent brunches you can ever imagine. With fried duck eggs, maple syrup, (bottomless) mimosas, and crunchy waffles, this brunch is going to keep you fueled and on your feet all the way until a late dinner. 

Hours: 24/7 (we love this!) 

Lunch: The Authentic Souvlaki

Example of Greek regional cuisine – By By Frente – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=776363

If you are growing a bit tired of fish and chips, try something different – head to this chilled-out Greek eatery that serves up big portions, tons of flavor, and mouth-watering food that is going to keep you full for hours. Although the food should cost a fortune, it doesn’t – you can find “lunch boxes” here for under £8 – a great deal considering the hefty amount of food on your plate. 

Hours: Tuesday – Friday 11:00-2:30

Lunch or Dinner: Sushi Samba 

Sushi platter – By By chidorian from Japan – Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1753815

With a vibrant, bright, and colorful atmosphere, Sushi Samba is a fun place to sit and relax. Located in a  room with all-glass walls, hanging light fixtures, brightly-colored booths, and tiled floors that combine modernity with the feel of an old American diner, this restaurant provides diners with excellent views, an upbeat atmosphere, and quality food.

Located on the 38th floor of the Heron Tower by the Tower of London, you can peer out the floor-to-ceiling windows to grab jaw-dropping views of the Thames and the city below. During breaks in gazing at the sprawling layout of London, enjoy one of their many sushi rolls for a light lunch, or indulge in heavier tempura for dinner time. 

Hours: Monday – Sunday 12:00-22:00

Dinner: Club Gascon

Semifreddo – By By Jun Seita – Flickr, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=28120365

For those who are on holiday to treat themselves and really splurge, head to Club Gascon for a once in a lifetime tasting experience. Even though your wallet will not be thanking you later, your tastebuds will. Coming in a seven-course meal, you can try numerous dishes that are nearly impossible to make at home, such as mackerel and caviar, black truffle, and full-bodied glasses of red wine. 

For tourists who want to feel like they have escaped to the South of France and are living on a luxurious vineyard, this is the place to go. Keep in mind that you need reservations to hold a table, but a simp;e phone call can have that sorted for you in just a few minutes.

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 18:00-22:00

Dinner: City Social

Peruvian ceviche – By By Picanteria karol – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=34894146

Another one that will break the bank, this restaurant is worth it – come to Club Social for a luxurious atmosphere, dimly lit booths with intimate seating, intricate decorations, and a breathtaking view of the city. Located on the 24th floor of the Tower 42 building, getting a window seat at this fancy dinner restaurant is well worth the price tag. 

We recommend trying the Sea Bass as your main course and finishing with something sweet – why not split the Banana souffle with your date? Coming here for date night after experiencing harrowing tales at the Tower of London seems like a fun and unique date night to us! 

Hours: Tuesday 17:00-23:00, Wednesday – Saturday 12:00-14:30 and 17:00-23:00, Sunday 12:00-18:00

Anytime food: Great British Fish and Chips

Fish and chips – By By Matthias Meckel – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=74468548

The last must-go in our list of restaurants, cafes, and eateries near the Tower of London is Great British Fish and Chips – after all, this is why you came to England, isn’t it? With the staple fish and chips in the best way possible – crunchy and battered fish with chips that are piled high on your takeaway plate – there is nothing better. Grab one of these takeaway dishes and sit outside on the rare sunny day to admire the view of the Thames after walking around the Tower of London!

Hours: 7 days a week, 10:00-19:00