The 3 best sophisticated London nightspots… with no dress code!
Going out for dinner is important. Dating, family get together’s, celebrations and client entertaining would have a limited list of options indeed, if it weren’t for London’s abundance of world food restaurants, slick cocktail bars and hundreds upon thousands of private dining rooms. However, not all of us want to have to wear a suit and tie, excruciating tummy-sucky-in-pants or ultra-shiny shoes. A top quality meal is often met with a dress code or obligatory smartness – but what if you just want to turn up, enjoy a high-end atmosphere, yet have the novel experience of doing so whilst being comfortable and not having to worry about splatters of soup on your £100 worth of shirt? We at Function Fixers have put together a list of venues in and around the city that look like they should have a dress code, but don’t. None of the following actively advertise as being child-friendly, so you’ll get a proper grown-up’s night out, but in the comfort of casual clothing.
This quirky, European-inspired restaurant is elegant and has been decorated with a big budget, offering up a mouth-watering menu of continental goodies. The door to this venue opens almost directly onto Claridges’ entrance porch, and so is in one of the most affluent areas of London, yet the menu is reasonably priced and there’s a friendly atmosphere. Beautiful ornate furniture is paired with golden lighting and a traditional-meets-21st century posh pub décor – providing a treat for all the senses – including that lovely optional feeling of denim on skin. There are also 3 stunning private dining rooms here, so contact Function Fixers to arrange a private celebration at The Exchange free of charge.
Slightly more informal, this venue has strengths in other areas than it’s more relaxed, contemporary interior design. The real selling point here is the view. You have an unrivalled sightline towards the O2 and The West India Docks, and are surrounded by the bustle of financially driven Canary Wharf businessmen going about their deals. The atmosphere here is electric, and the food has flare. Amazing 13 inch stone baked pizzas are the restaurant’s signature dish, although an array of other Italian-inspired food is also available. This venue has a feeling of exclusivity about it, and offers you the chance to soak up the vibrancy of this suited and booted area of London, with a fantastic view, at an affordable price and in your old trainers.
This is a proper bar for proper adults. Ideal for a first date, this exciting and unusual little venue is tucked away in the exposed brickwork vaults of Covent Garden. Underground, romantic and moody, this bar is dedicated to providing a chilled night out (with a 2am license) for stylish city professionals. You can expect flattering lighting and friendly staff, along with cheeky little private booths that serve as the perfect courting ground over cocktails and imaginative bar snacks. You won’t find a full-on a la carte menu here, but you will not be disappointed if you’re looking for somewhere to have that all-important first drink together, or to get some privacy while catching up with an old friend. Perhaps not the best place to take clients due to the slightly sexier vibe, but definitely a great place to start a night out.
Function Fixers can arrange for private parties, corporate events or even just a table for two at all of these restaurants, and we have a wealth of other suitable venues on our database – so give us a call today to get the ball rolling in organising your perfect casual-meets-classy night out!
Related Posts
The Form Rooms, Covent Garden: Where London’s Past Meets the Future of Meetings
In a city filled with meeting rooms, conference centres and event spaces, finding a venue with genuine character can be surprisingly difficult. Many venues offer excellent facilities, but few can…
Are You Overpaying for Event Venues Without Realising It?
When budgeting for a corporate event, most businesses focus on the obvious costs: Venue hire. Catering. AV. Delegate packages. But what if the real issue isn’t the headline quote? What if…
Birmingham’s Event Venues: Where Event Planners Are Booking in 2026
Birmingham has evolved dramatically over the past decade. Once viewed primarily as a practical conference destination, it is now attracting event planners looking for creativity, flexibility and memorable delegate experiences….
Booking Lead Time: How Far in Advance Should You Book?
One of the most common questions we receive at Function Fixers is, “How far in advance should I book my venue?” The answer depends on the type of event, its…