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Eating out with a big group in London can be a joy or a headache, and the difference is choosing the right restaurant. The best group spots have room to spread out, menus built for sharing, and the kind of buzz that carries a party. This guide covers where to book for a crowd, from casual feasts to private dining.
What makes a great group restaurant
For a group, look for large tables or booths, a sharing or set menu that keeps ordering simple, and a room lively enough that a big table does not feel exposed. Booking well ahead is essential, and for larger numbers it is worth asking about set menus or a private room, which many restaurants offer.
Big, buzzy rooms for a feast
Some restaurants are simply built for a crowd. The lavish Italian halls of the Big Mamma group, including Gloria and Circolo Popolare, are made for sharing platters and celebration, and the grand Brasserie Zedel near Piccadilly seats large tables beautifully at fair prices. Dishoom, with its communal tables and shareable Bombay dishes, is a reliable crowd-pleaser across its branches.
Sharing feasts and long tables
For a group that likes to dig in, sharing is the way to go. The steaks and sides of Hawksmoor and the chops of Blacklock are designed for the table to share, while the mezze and grills of London's Turkish and Lebanese restaurants bring plate after plate. Our guides to the best steak and the city's cuisines are full of group-friendly options.
Private dining rooms
For a special party, a private dining room gives your group its own space and often a dedicated menu. Many of London's restaurants, from grand hotels to modern British and Italian rooms, keep private or semi-private areas for exactly this, so it is always worth asking when you enquire, especially for milestone celebrations.
Good to know
Which London restaurants are best for large groups?
The theatrical Italian rooms of the Big Mamma group, the grand Brasserie Zedel and the communal tables of Dishoom all handle large groups well, as do sharing-focused restaurants such as Hawksmoor. For bigger or more formal parties, look for restaurants with a private dining room.
Do I need to book a set menu for a large group?
Not always, but many restaurants ask larger groups to choose a set or sharing menu to keep service running smoothly, and some require it above a certain number. It is worth confirming when you book, as a set menu can also make splitting the bill much easier.
Where to go next
Plan a celebration with our guides to birthday restaurants and special occasions, or browse the best restaurants in London.
