Whether you’re looking to see the sights of London or want to be dazzled and entertained while enjoying decadent, culinary delights, London is home to some of the most fantastic and immersive dining experiences.
From experiencing fine dining on a moving bus through the capital to watching a glitzy cabaret and circus show over dinner and cocktails, we’ve put together a list of some of the most extraordinary and unusual dining experience to be had in London.
City Cruises’ Dining Cruise
Can you imagine a better way to see the sights of London than by enjoying afternoon tea, lunch or dinner while cruising down the river Thames? At City Cruises, we offer a wealth of dining options onboard a fantastic Thames River cruise dinner.
Whether you want to join us for our popular afternoon tea cruise or dinner and a live performance, we have the dining experience to suit. From Elvis tribute nights to an immersive Murder Mystery Dinner or a smooth relaxed jazz nights and a delicious dinner on the river! Introducing our first Sunday Brunch! There’s no better way to start a Sunday than by tucking into brunch while sailing down the river for magnificent views of the Thames.
Day or night, you’ll also be able to take in the London sights out on the deck, looking out for the top landmarks that line the river which includes Big Ben, The London Eye, Toer Bridge and more.
Dans Le Noir?
If you’re looking for a unique sensory experience, Dans le Noir? will change your perspective of fine dining by serving you stunning gourmet food in complete darkness. You’ll be waited on by a visually impaired waiter and encouraged to socialise with other guests in the pitch black on sharing tables. This intimate and unique experience is certain to challenge everything you thought you knew about dining.
Iris, Public Relations Officer for Dans le Noir? told us more about the incredible sensory experience. Dans Le Noir? restaurant is a one-of-a-kind role reversal, where our guests experience fine dining in pitch darkness, guided by visually impaired staff.
While you are deprived of sight, your other senses take over and accompany you through an amazing sensory experience.
Our guests get to choose the main component of their meal: meat, seafood or veggies. For the rest, they will have to trust our chef. Of course, we take into consideration any dietary requirements (allergies, preferences). We also offer our concept as a form of team building; wine, beer, cheese tasting and even kids’ tasting.
Circus London
If you’re looking for dinner and a show that you won’t be able to stop talking about, Circus London offers diners the chance to watch an extraordinary cabaret and circus show that will amaze and thrill you while you enjoy sumptuous, decadent food and drink.
Denby, Events Manager for Circus London told us more about the restaurant’s staggering show and venue. – “Circus is a unique and quirky cabaret restaurant and cocktail bar in London’s vibrant Covent Garden, the ultimate one-stop-shop. The perfect venue in London for before-dinner cocktails, after-work drinks, dinner, entertainment and a late-night bar. Circus is a restaurant and show with a difference, brought to life by an amazing and outrageous pop-up circus. Expect the unexpected as you see aerialists, contortionists, hand balancers, fire-breathers, hula-hoopers and much more.”
Sketch
Sketch is a renowned restaurant located in London, known for its unique and eclectic design. It’s situated in a historic 18th-century building in Mayfair. Sketch comprises several different rooms, each with its own distinctive theme and decor, designed by the renowned artist David Shrigley. Different dining areas in Sketch include:
The Gallery: This room features a pink color scheme and is adorned with over 200 pieces of David Shrigley’s artwork, including his famous quirky and humorous drawings. It serves as the main dining area for Sketch.
The Lecture Room & Library: This Michelin-starred dining room is elegant and opulent, with rich velvet upholstery, intricate chandeliers, and plush seating. It offers a fine dining experience with a focus on French cuisine.
The Glade: Inspired by an enchanted forest, The Glade is a whimsical space with leafy decor, floral motifs, and cozy seating areas. It’s perfect for afternoon tea or cocktails.
The Parlour: This is Sketch’s cocktail bar, offering an extensive menu of creative cocktails in a relaxed yet stylish setting.
The East Bar: Located in the entrance area of Sketch, the East Bar features an impressive marble bar and serves a variety of drinks, including cocktails, champagne, and spirits.
Bustronome London
Hop on board Bustronome, a high-end double decker bus that stands out for its panoramic dining room, a delightful way to discover food and wine while you visit iconic monuments of the capital!
Putting a spin on fine dining, the unrivalled combination between beauty and leisure on board their luxury bus restaurant will provide a different experience ready to awaken your senses. Discovering beautiful views of London while you enjoy the best of its gastronomy! Either to dine for lunch or dinner you will be in for a treat!
London Unique Dining Experiences with a View
In a city celebrated for its diversity and creativity, dining in London can be an adventure in itself, especially when seeking out experiences that offer more than just a meal. For those in pursuit of dining with a difference, and a view to match, London does not disappoint. Among the myriad of options, City Cruises stands out as a distinctive choice, offering guests the opportunity to dine on the Thames. This unique experience allows diners to enjoy gourmet meals while cruising past London’s most iconic landmarks. The ever-changing scenery of the Thames riverside, from the historical grandeur of the Tower of London to the architectural splendor of the Shard, provides a dynamic backdrop to an exquisite dining experience. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch, an elegant dinner, or a themed cruise, City Cruises combines the pleasure of fine dining with panoramic views, making every occasion memorable.
Why London Is Great for Quirky Dining Experiences
London’s status as a global culinary capital is not just down to its Michelin-starred restaurants and international cuisine; it’s also its willingness to embrace the unconventional that sets it apart. The city is a treasure trove of quirky dining experiences that challenge the norm and offer something truly out of the ordinary. From dining in the dark to eating atop a double-decker bus, London’s culinary scene is limited only by the imagination.
Themed restaurants and immersive dining experiences are scattered throughout the city, offering guests the chance to step into another world, whether it’s the wizarding wonders of a Harry Potter-themed café or the clandestine charm of a speakeasy-style bar. These unique venues often feature menus that complement the theme, adding an extra layer of excitement to the dining experience.
London’s eclectic mix of cultures also contributes to its quirky dining scene, with pop-up restaurants and food festivals showcasing the city’s diversity. From futuristic Japanese dining with robot waiters to medieval banquets, there’s always something to satisfy the curiosity of adventurous foodies.
FAQs – London Unique Dining Experiences (2024)
What are some unique dining experiences available in London?
London offers a range of unique dining experiences, from dining in the dark at a sensory restaurant to enjoying afternoon tea on a vintage bus.
Can I find unusual cuisines in London for a distinctive dining experience?
Yes, London’s diverse culinary scene includes restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, offering unusual and exciting flavors.
Are there dining options for those looking for a quirky atmosphere in London in 2024?
Absolutely, you can dine in quirky venues like an old tube carriage, an underwater restaurant, or even a restaurant set in a prison.
Where can I find unusual rooftop dining experiences in London?
London has several rooftop restaurants offering stunning views of the city skyline, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
What are some unique dining experiences for couples in London?
Couples can enjoy unique dining experiences such as dinner aboard a vintage double-decker bus, romantic canal boat dining, or dining in a candlelit wine cave.
How is City Cruises’ dining experience unique in London?
City Cruises offers a truly unique dining experience by allowing you to enjoy a meal on a cruise along the Thames River, providing stunning views of London’s landmarks as you dine.
What types of unique dining experiences are available with City Cruises?
City Cruises offers a variety of dining experiences, including standard sightseeing cruises with onboard dining, afternoon tea cruises, and special event cruises like Valentine’s Day dinners.
What makes dining with City Cruises unusual compared to traditional restaurants?
Dining with City Cruises is unusual because it combines a delicious meal with the ever-changing backdrop of London’s iconic landmarks, creating a dynamic and memorable dining setting.
Is City Cruises suitable for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries?
Yes, City Cruises is an excellent choice for special occasions, offering the chance to celebrate with a unique and romantic dining experience on the water.
Can I book a private dining experience with City Cruises for a more exclusive meal?
Certainly, City Cruises often offers private charter options, allowing you to enjoy a personalized dining experience with your own group in a unique setting.
What landmarks can I expect to see during a dining experience with City Cruises?
A City Cruises dining experience typically includes views of landmarks like the Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament, making it an unforgettable experience.
Original Post Date: May 16, 2022