Best French Restaurants in Clerkenwell

Price

$$
$$$
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Regions

City of LondonEast LondonNorth LondonNorth West LondonSouth East LondonSouth West London

Areas

AngelBankBarbicanBarnesBatterseaBelgravia

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

148 restaurants available nearby

1. Tabac

4.4

Awesome(11)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• French • Clerkenwell

Booked 4 times today

French food doesn't always have to be formal. Back to the classics that we know and love, done well. Dining is a social affair, Fondue, Raclette & plenty to share during the season. We've carefully curated our cheeses and offer a range of French ingredients.

2. Otto's Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(925)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• French • Bloomsbury

Booked 11 times today

Welcome to Otto’s French Restaurant, London, the world’s only restaurant to have both a duck and a lobster press; the essential solid-silver contraptions from which the most extravagant dishes ever created are made; ‘La Grande Bouffe’.Step back into the old-world glamour of sumptuous, traditional French cuisine with tableside service at the heart of what we do.We serve impeccable, classic French cuisine which has been hailed by critics as the best one can find in London. Not only do we serve the pressed duck and lobster tableside, but at our restaurant, you can also enjoy a traditional poularde de Bresse ‘Demi-Deuil’ with truffles and morelsWe do do not turn tables; you have your seat for the entirety of lunch or dinner service.Everything at Otto’s is made from scratch - and all dishes are created to order.We invite you to experience the magic of Otto’s for yourself.

3. Le Cafe du Marche

4.8

Exceptional(1419)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• French • Barbican

Booked 30 times today

Le Cafe du Marche is a charming destination for Contemporary French cuisine nestled in the heart of Barbican, London. This family-run gem has captivated diners for over three decades with its "authentic French food" and "lovely atmosphere." Guests rave about the delectable menu, from the "stunning veal kidney starter" to the impeccable "Cote de Boeuf." The restaurant’s ambiance, complete with live jazz, transports you straight to the south of France, making it an "absolute gem" and a "hidden treasure" in the city. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Le Cafe du Marche promises an unforgettable dining experience.

4. Cloth Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(261)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• French • Farringdon

Booked 35 times today

Cloth Restaurant stands out as a beacon of authentic French cuisine in the heart of Farringdon, London. Nestled in a historic setting, the restaurant offers an experience that is both "cosy and classy" without any pretentiousness. Diners rave about the "exquisitely presented food that tastes even better than it looks" and the "phenomenal wine" list that perfectly complements each dish. The warm atmosphere, reminiscent of a classic bistro, is enhanced by "impeccable service" and a menu that consistently delivers "superb culinary delights." Whether it's a romantic date or a gathering with friends, Cloth promises a delightful and memorable French dining experience.

5. Balthazar London

4.3

Awesome(5423)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• French • Covent Garden

Booked 177 times today

Balthazar London, nestled in the lively Covent Garden, offers an exquisite Contemporary French dining experience that promises to delight even the most discerning palates. This French brasserie-inspired gem is lauded for its "outstanding service and amazing ambience," creating a dining atmosphere that is both vibrant and welcoming. Guests rave about their delicious offerings, notably the French onion soup and roast chicken chasseur, described as "comfort classics." The restaurant's attention to detail and the authentic execution of traditional dishes set it apart. With its charming French atmosphere and a menu brimming with classics, Balthazar is a must-visit for a genuine taste of France.

A photo of Savoy Grill – Gordon Ramsay restaurant

6. Savoy Grill – Gordon Ramsay

4.7

Exceptional(7931)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• French • Covent Garden

Booked 59 times today

Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay is without doubt one of London's most legendary restaurants with a plethora of menus to choose from, reviving recipes from the original Chef's days in the kitchen back in 1889.

A photo of 56 West Smithfield restaurant

7. 56 West Smithfield

4.8

Exceptional(21)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• French • Farringdon

Booked 8 times today

Nestled in the heart of Farringdon, London, 56 West Smithfield is a gem that offers authentic French charm through its exquisite selection of wines and cozy ambiance. Born from a family of passionate winemakers, the restaurant brings the essence of Provence to the city, showcasing award-winning, organic wines from their Château De La Cômbe vineyard. Guests rave about the "fantastic venue" with its "brilliant wine selection" and "lovely, comforting space." The intimate setting is perfect for unwinding, with "excellent quality" wines paired with delightful cheese and charcuterie boards. Experience a slice of French elegance and tradition that is both "highly satisfied and highly recommended."

8. The NoMad London

4.4

Awesome(1797)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• French • Covent Garden

Booked 33 times today

The Restaurant at The NoMad London is a shining star in the realm of Contemporary American cuisine, offering an eclectic menu that masterfully highlights local and regional ingredients. Set in a breathtaking three-storey atrium reminiscent of an Edwardian greenhouse, this Covent Garden gem promises a dining experience that's both elegant and inviting. Glowing reviews praise the “absolutely wonderful food and wonderful service,” making it a must-visit destination. The extensive wine list and creative drinks program further elevate the experience, offering diners a taste of authenticity and innovation that is “just lovely.” Perfect for any occasion, The NoMad London never disappoints.

9. Clos Maggiore

4.6

Exceptional(15322)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• French • Covent Garden

Booked 62 times today

Clos Maggiore in Covent Garden, London is a shining example of exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, offering an authentic taste of Provence and Tuscany. The restaurant's interiors, inspired by the stylish country inns of these regions, create a warm and intimate dining experience. Diners rave about the "delicious food beautifully served" and describe their meals as "picture perfect and delicious." The extensive wine cellar, boasting over 2,000 labels, complements the flavorful dishes, enhancing the culinary journey. Recognized consistently with the "Best of Award of Excellence" by Wine Spectator since 2003, Clos Maggiore is a must-visit destination for Mediterranean food enthusiasts.

A photo of Palm Court Brasserie restaurant

10. Palm Court Brasserie

4.6

Exceptional(15355)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• French • Covent Garden

Booked 55 times today

Palm Court is the quintessential Parisian-style brasserie in the heart of Covent Garden. The restaurant has been lovingly crafted to recreate a classical 1920’s art nouveau-style venue echoing elegant dining rooms in Paris’s most affluent arrondissements.The restaurant offers a menu of French classics centred on seasonal meat, fish, seafood and vegetable dishes with quality and flavour at the forefront of our work. Whether you are dining for lunch with colleagues, dinner with a special someone, for Afternoon Tea with family or simply stopping by for a glass of wine, Palm Court Brasserie resonates the ideal environment to help you relax and unwind. Our wine list boasts an enviable list of labels spanning the vineyards of France, Italy and the New World.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
Adrian
London •4 reviews
4.0
Dined 2 days ago
As ever, wonderful: Great staff, ambience and food.
More info
Le Cafe du MarchePrice: Very Expensive• French• Barbican
•
4.8
OT
OpenTable Diner
Philadelphia County •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
If you like raclette, you will love Tabac. Small cozy tables perfect for date night or sharing. Loved our night there.
More info
TabacPrice: Expensive• French• Clerkenwell
•
4.4
N
Nigel
London •11 reviews
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
Table service a bit off: bread appetiser did not arrive, the starters did! Had to ask for the bread. Had to ask for the glasses of white wine which were ordered at the time of the food and were meant to arrive when the aperitifs were finished. Asked for one dessert and two forks: two desserts arrived. Saving grace was the food-delicious
More info
Cloth RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Traditional French• Farringdon
•
4.7
B
brett
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Incredible food. Easily one of the best experiences in London. We had the lobster press and it was everything we hoped it would be. Otto is a great host as well. We will be back!
More info
Otto's RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• French• Bloomsbury
•
4.8
M
Marino
London •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 2 Mar 2025
Brilliant service, any request we had , the staff was happy with it. Flavours of food was Top ,great quality of fish, Nice environment and helpful staff.
More info
Whitcomb'sPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Leicester Square
•
4.4

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