one fabulous place to eat in London?

hi. regarding the recommendation to try Rules -- i went there last year pre-theatre, and i have to say it's not a great place anymore. the history and the setting are incredible, but the food isn't. it is another restaurant -- so many cities have them -- that is legendary but now mostly frequented by tourists.

My husband, the in-laws, and I spent over a week in London right before Christmas and had our 'splurge night' at Gordon Ramsey's Petrus. I wasn't expecting to be blown away as I thought it was more hype than substance but it was incredible. It wasn't cheap but honestly, for a Michelin star joint, it wasn't too bad. We also at at Butler's Wharf Chop House. It was recommended to me from some business associates and it was very good too. You may already know all this but be sure to do the Sunday Roast. They are in just about every pub and hotel restaurant. For cheap and fantastic, I like Indian and Chinese restaurants. The food seems to be better quality on average than what I find in the states. Have fun! I can't wait to go back myself.

A long time ago when the world was young and I was, too, a very handsome man took me to dinner at Rules in London. It still exists and still has a good reputation. I still exist too, happily, but my reputation may not match Rules.

Look at the Michelin starred ones BUT you'll need to book well before arriving in uk, also you may need to reconfirm. Marcus Wareing is great. S ;0)

If you find the prices a bit on the high side for dinner, how about a special lunch? Many of the top restos do very good fixed price lunch menus, same chef and food but often half the price. Spend some of the money saved on special bottle of wine. http://www.gordonramsay.com/petrus/menus/

Dinner, Roganic or Medlar. Complete splurges. May not even be able to get a table. Incredible presentation and food!!
Now with that said, I will note that the dinner I had at the The Oxford Pub in Kentish Town last May was outstanding. We ate in the pub area but there is a dining room. I expected good food but it was great food! We'd spent the afternoon wandering around Camden Lock Market and this pub was near our flat. Friends had recommended it. Not in Central London but in Zone 2 and an easy tube ride to the Kentish Town station. A block from there. BTW wonderful budget spots besides Wagamama's include Dishroom (Indian) in Covent Garden, Master's Super Fish by Waterloo Station, Flat White Bakery in SoHo, Bosphorus Kebabs on Old Brompton Rd in S. Ken, and Tukdin Flavours of Malaysia in Bayswater. Given the diversely ethic makeup of London, you can eat your way around the world. The fresh sandwiches, salads and soups at the Pret a Managers either are wonderful for picnics in any of the stellar parks. Grab a Timeout Magazine when you arrive in London. Always a great resource for restaurants, plays, galleries, theatre, etc. Fabulous city. Enjoy.

Unfortunately had a very uncomfortable experience at Rules. Waiters have attitude up-to-here if they dont think you are worthy of the place. Pity, the food was fine For a special treat i would try one of the fancier Indian restaurants. My facirite- mostly for the atmospjere is Veeraswamy's just off Regent Street near Picadilly Circus. Doorman in turban etc. Its been there over 70 years Food is very good too Or do a typical english at Simpsons on the Strand

Wow... so many of my favorite restaurants in the world are in London... but right now, without a doubt, I would choose The River Café on the Thames. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water. Cucina rustica at its best - great ambiance & views - but most of all memorable, clean, delicious food. If you're tempted, check out their seasonal menus & photos at http://therivercafe.co.uk Another fav: Michelin-star restaurant "Arbutus" in Soho. The chef is serious about seasonal cooking. Really incredible food - and the prices for a 3-course pre-threatre meal won't break the bank (19 pounds per person w/o alcohol). Need reservation or if small party you can eat at the bar. http://www.arbutusrestaurant.co.uk I'm jealous! BTW, you can eat delicious & cheap food (probably same price as fish&chips) at these joints: http://www.wagamama.com (Japanese)
Best Mexican tacos in London: http://www.taqueria.co.uk