As visual-first social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram increasingly become the go-to source for restaurant recommendations, particularly with Gen Z, diners are placing more emphasis on the value of great interior design when it comes to discovering their new favourite places.
If you’re opening a new restaurant or undergoing a major refurbishment, it’s a good idea to draw inspiration from other establishments that have made a name for themselves with their eye-catching decor. Well, look no further: we’ve compiled a list of six of our favourite photo-worthy restaurants, along with tips you can use to drive your own aesthetic success.
Scroll on to discover a range of restaurants, from high-end MICHELIN establishments to sleek bistros, to guide you along your restaurant interior design journey.
Dear Jackie describes itself as a ‘love letter to modern Italian cuisine’, and this ethos is reflected throughout its opulent decor. Packed with red silk walls and plush booths, this restaurant exudes classic glamour with a modern twist, just like its menu.
Key takeaway: Dining is a multi-sensory experience, so as well as focusing on the taste and aromas of your cuisine, think about how on-theme materials and textures can complement your menu’s ethos.
Located in a former concert hall, Sucre embraces a Latin American approach to cuisine while fitting in perfectly with its chic Soho surroundings. Sucre’s menu spotlights fresh ingredients used in expected ways, which guests can watch being prepared in the restaurant’s open fire kitchen.
Key takeaway: Don’t be afraid to blend cultural influences in your decor as well as your menu. From the classically British hanging chandeliers to the Latin American-style materials on the dining chairs, Sucre’s unique identity shines through its interior design from top to bottom.
No list of London’s most Instagrammable restaurants is complete without mentioning Sketch. This Mayfair hotspot balances MICHELIN-starred cuisine with a uniquely vibrant approach to restaurant interior design.
Key takeaway: Featuring London’s (probably) most-photographed toilets, Sketch is proof that the most inspired designs can make an impact in the most unlikely of places. While your dining space will take priority when planning your interior design, don’t neglect areas such as bathrooms, hallways, or entrances — these may just become your most iconic photo spots.
If you want to embody old school decadence through your restaurant decor, look no further than Bob Bob Ricard for inspiration. Its gilded interiors and sophisticated menu have made it a go-to spot for diners looking for an extra-special experience.
Key takeaway: Beyond its luxurious furnishing and fine cuisine, Bob Bob Ricard is best known for its unique ‘Press for Champagne’ buttons at every table. This quirky feature goes to show that great restaurant design isn’t always about big flashy decor — sometimes the smallest touches can make the biggest impact.
Yasmin Soho is one of London’s newest culinary delights, but it’s already gained popularity for its stunning rooftop setup that’s perfect for al fresco dining. With a menu centred around sharing plates, Yasmin’s community-focused ethos is brought to life through its chic but comfy dining space.
Key takeaway: Your seating plan isn’t just important for maximising space — how you set out your tables also makes a big impact on the overall feel of your dining experience. Yasmin Soho’s large cushioned booths not only maximise its seating capacity, but also heighten the close-knit feeling of creating memories through sharing plates.
If there was an award for London’s most romantic restaurant, Clos Maggiore would certainly be one of the frontrunners. With its intimate white tablecloth-clad round tables and breathtaking flower canopy, Clos Maggiore has cemented itself as a popular choice for couples looking to celebrate a special occasion.
Key takeaway: Building your restaurant design plan around one defining photo-worthy feature or aspect can be a powerful way to grow brand recognition. Whether it’s a plant wall, iconic mural, or one-of-a-kind lighting centrepiece, give your diners something special to remember you by — and show their friends — within your decor.
Once you’ve perfected your restaurant’s interior design, your next priority is filling tables. To find out how you can get more diners through the door and encourage them to return to your restaurant, sign up to TheFork today.