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Are you on the hunt for the most unique restaurants in the UK? From the highlands of Scotland to the bustling streets of London, here are 12 of the UK’s coolest places to eat.
Ready for a taste of the extraordinary? I’ve journeyed across the UK to find dining experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind. Picture this: a meal in a magical treehouse, a dinner in total darkness, and a feast in a converted tube carriage. These unique dining adventures make the UK one of the top countries to visit in Europe.
I’m thrilled to share these finds with you. If you’re seeking quirky places to eat in the UK, you’re in for a delightful surprise. From charming high-end dining to unusual, budget-friendly spots, these spots are sure to dazzle, inviting you to fly from the UK for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Believe me, this isn’t your typical dinner-and-a-movie kind of list. We’re talking about dining in places that might make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy novel or a sci-fi film set. I’m about to share with you 12 of the UK’s most unique restaurants. I promise, it’s going to be one deliciously wild ride!
Wonderful & Weird Restaurants in the UK
Ready to explore the UK’s best restaurants? We’ve got an array of amazing eateries, from luxurious dining experiences to quirky hidden gems. Join me as we discover the quirkiest places to eat in the UK.
Fancy dining in a treehouse or aboard a vintage tube carriage? Or how about a meal served in complete darkness? The UK’s dining scene is as diverse as it is exciting. Here’s your ultimate guide to the most unique restaurants in the UK. Prepare to turn your dining moments into unforgettable experiences!
1. The Treehouse Restaurant at Alnwick Garden
Ever fancied dining in a treehouse? Well, The Treehouse Restaurant at Alnwick Garden in Northumberland is your chance to tick that off your bucket list! This dining spot is truly a one-of-a-kind. You’ll dine amidst the treetops, surrounded by a forest of Canadian cedar and Scots pine.
Here’s why it’s a must-visit: the setting is straight out of a storybook, complete with suspended walkways and a cozy log fire. The menu brings to the table modern British cuisine with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. It’s a treat for those who love their meals with a side of enchanting views.
If you decide to dine here, you must try their cocktails. Their menu is a tribute to the Duchess of Northumberland, featuring unique concoctions with Alnwick’s own rum. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday lunch or a dinner amongst the treetops, this spot is a gem in the UK for anyone after fun places to eat. It’s quirky, it’s delightful, and it’s waiting to be discovered by you!
2. Supperclub.tube
Have you ever dined in a tube carriage? At Supperclub.tube in Walthamstow, this quirky idea is a reality. It’s a dining experience that turns an ordinary tube carriage into an extraordinary Latin American feast.
Without a doubt, this spot is one of the most unique restaurants in London. It’s not every day you get to enjoy a six-course tasting menu in a 1967 Victoria line carriage! The chef, Beatriz Maldonado Carreño, brings her Colombian roots to the table. You’ll tuck in to dishes like hake ceviche and Cuban-style shredded beef brisket. It’s a fusion of haute cuisine and comfort food that’s hard to find anywhere else.
The setting is as unique as the menu. White linen tablecloths, atmospheric jazz, and no tube announcements interrupting your meal. It’s one of those cool places to eat in the UK where the ambiance is as memorable as the food. Dining here is like stepping into a different world, one where every bite and every moment is part of an urban adventure.
3. Dans Le Noir ?
Step into Dans Le Noir ? in London, and embrace a dining experience that’s all about surprise and sensory discovery – all in total darkness. Here, the focus is on flavor and texture, making each dish a surprise to your palate.
What makes Dans Le Noir ? intriguing is its approach to dining. You’re guided by visually impaired waiters, offering a genuine insight into their world. The menu, kept a secret, turns each course into a guessing game of flavors and ingredients. It’s a place where the usual visual cues are absent, allowing you to fully concentrate on the taste and aroma of your meal.
Located in the heart of Clerkenwell, this restaurant offers an immersive sensory journey. Due to its popularity and unique concept, I recommend booking in advance to secure a table at one of the UK’s most unique restaurants.
4. Corrour Station House
Imagine a cafe so remote, it’s only reachable by train or a 20-mile hike. That’s Corrour Station House near Fort William for you. Whilst it’s not the easiest to reach, this cafe is well-worth a visit. You’ll be enjoying a hearty, homemade bowl of soup in one of Scotland’s most beautiful places.
What makes Corrour Station House one of the most unique places to eat in the UK is its extraordinary location. Situated at the end of Rannoch Moor, it offers an experience that’s rare in today’s world: true detachment from the hustle and bustle. It’s a place where the beauty of the wilderness is your dining backdrop.
The uniqueness lies in its accessibility – or the lack thereof. It’s a destination that rewards the effort it takes to get there. Whether you arrive by foot or rail, the warm welcome, coupled with simple, satisfying fare, makes it a memorable stop. Hands down, Corrour Station House is one of the most unique restaurants in Scotland that I recommend to all.
5. Lahpet
Who knew a trip to Myanmar could be just a tube ride away? Lahpet in London is where I get my fix of Burmese delights. Believe me, it’s one of London’s hidden gems.
Lahpet is one of the few restaurants in London where Burmese flavors come to life. Dan and Zaw, the brains behind this gem, have mastered the art of blending traditional Burmese dishes with a modern twist. Every visit here is a chance to explore something new, from zesty salads to rich, aromatic curries.
You’ll find Lahpet in the lively neighborhoods of Shoreditch and the West End. I highly recommend booking ahead to avoid missing out. This place is a hotspot for those in search of the UK’s best restaurants, inviting you to fly to London. Lahpet offers a journey through the flavors of Myanmar, served up right here in London.
6. Frankenstein Pub Edinburgh
If you’re up for a spooktacular time, Frankenstein Pub in Edinburgh is the place to be. This bar offers an experience straight out of Mary Shelley’s novel, housed in a 19th-century church! This makes it one of the most fun restaurants in the UK for locals and travelers alike.
What makes Frankenstein Pub a must-visit? It’s one of the most thrilling themed restaurants in the UK. Imagine sipping a drink in an old church while partying with the Monster. This place is a blend of Gothic charm and modern party vibes, right in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Located on George IV Bridge, near the Royal Mile, it’s the perfect spot to dive into a world of fantasy and fun. My tip: get ready for some monster-themed surprises and a lively atmosphere. If you’re a horror fan or looking for unique restaurants in Edinburgh, Frankenstein Pub is an unforgettable stop on your Scottish adventure.
7. Rapscallions
Walk into Rapscallions in Southsea and you’re stepping into a pirate’s world. This place is all about the rum-soaked, swashbuckling vibe. Trust me, it’s a standout among quirky restaurants in the UK.
Rapscallions caught my eye for its full-on pirate theme. Here, you’re not just dining – you’re part of a seafaring adventure. With Portsmouth’s largest rum collection, it’s like finding hidden treasure in every glass. The food is hearty fare fit for a hungry crew after a day on the high seas.
Rapscallions is situated in Southsea, on the southern side of Portsmouth. For an unforgettable experience, I recommend enjoying a bottomless brunch. Whether you’re there for the grub or the grog, this place guarantees a rollicking good time!
8. Sarastro
Fancy dining in the heart of London’s theaterland with a side of drama? Welcome to Sarastro in London’s West End. This place is a feast for the eyes as much as the palate, with its opulent décor and theatrical charm.
I was drawn to Sarastro for its unique blend of food and flamboyance. Located on Drury Lane, it’s like dining on a stage set, complete with velvet tablecloths and opera booth seating. The Mediterranean menu, with a Turkish twist, offers classics like lamb shank and grilled sea bass that are as delightful as the surroundings.
As one of the most unusual restaurants in the UK, Sarastro turns dinner into a performance. With live entertainment from Thursday to Sunday, it’s the perfect spot for a night out that’s both delicious and dazzling. My advice: book in advance to get the best seat in this opulent dining theater.
9. Bayt Al Yemeni
If you’re like me and love exploring new cuisines, check out Bayt Al Yemeni in Birmingham, one of the top places to live and visit in the UK. In my opinion, this family-run restaurant offers the best Yemeni food in the UK. Here, you’ll have the chance to savor authentic Yemeni cuisine while seated on the floor, traditional style.
I was captivated by Bayt Alyemeni for its authentic approach to Yemeni dining. It’s not every day you get to enjoy a meal in such a unique setting. The family-owned restaurant serves a variety of Yemeni dishes that are as authentic as they come, all in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Located on Moseley Road, this spot is a standout for those looking for unique restaurants in Birmingham. The floor seating adds to the authenticity. Try their delicious saltah (lamb soup) and enjoy the traditional dining style for a truly memorable meal.
10. River Exe Café
Ever dined on a floating barge? River Exe Café in Exmouth offers a unique dining experience in the UK, floating offshore in the Exe Estuary. As someone who used to live in Exeter, I can’t recommend this restaurant enough, especially on a warm summer’s day.
What’s special about River Exe Café? It’s all about location. This seasonal restaurant, open from April to September, serves locally sourced food surrounded by stunning views. Getting there is part of the fun – you can take a Puffin Water Taxi or sail in on your own boat.
Situated well offshore, this café is a gem for anyone searching for scenic places in the UK to eat. With both covered and open-air dining, it’s perfect for any weather. Make sure to dress for the sea breeze and be ready for a dining experience that’s as refreshing as it is delicious. Whether it’s a sunny day or a breezy evening, River Exe Café is a must-visit for a truly unique meal in the UK.
11. Flavour of Mauritius
One of Reading’s most unique restaurants is Flavour of Mauritius. This family-run restaurant offers some of the best Mauritian food in the UK, surrounded by a gorgeous, straw-beach hut themed setting.
I’m drawn to Flavour of Mauritius for its authentic, homemade Mauritian cuisine. From the luscious banana tart to the spicy octopus curry, each dish is a burst of flavor. The family-run restaurant creates an atmosphere that’s as warm and welcoming as the island itself.
Without a doubt, this spot is one of the coolest restaurants in the UK for a taste of Mauritius. The decor transports you to a holiday vibe, and the friendly staff make the experience even more delightful. Don’t miss their homemade cocktails for a complete island dining experience!
12. Kudu Restaurant
Discover a slice of South Africa at Kudu in Peckham, London, where small plates bring big, bold flavors. This neighborhood spot turns dining into a vibrant celebration of South African cuisine.
Kudu stands out for its inventive approach to traditional South African dishes. The menu is a delightful journey through the rainbow nation’s flavors, with the mosbolletjies bread as a must-try highlight. It’s a fusion of comfort and creativity in every dish.
Situated on Queen’s Road in Peckham, Kudu offers a warm, stylish setting for any occasion. It’s easily one of the best restaurants in London for an authentic taste of South Africa. My recommendation: indulge in their braai lamb and mussels cooked in a potjie for a truly memorable meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Unusual Restaurants in the UK
Are you searching for more information about where to eat in the UK? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Britain’s most unique restaurants.
What is the remotest restaurant in the UK?
The title for the remotest restaurant in the UK goes to Corrour Station House near Fort William. It’s a unique spot accessible only by train or a 20-mile hike! Located at the end of Rannoch Moor, it’s a haven for those seeking solitude and stunning scenery with their meal.
What is the most popular type of restaurant in the UK?
The UK loves its variety, but if I had to pick one, it’s the classic British Pub. These pubs are more than just places to drink. They’re social hubs where you can enjoy hearty meals like fish and chips, pies, and Sunday roasts. They’re a staple of British culture and cuisine.
Where can I find the most unusual dining experiences in the UK?
For the unusual, you’re spoilt for choice! Dans Le Noir ? in London offers dining in total darkness, served by visually impaired waiters. Then there’s supperclub.tube in Walthamstow, where you dine in a refurbished 1967 Victoria line tube carriage. And don’t forget The Treehouse Restaurant at Alnwick Garden in Northumberland for a meal among the treetops.
What is Britain’s smallest restaurant?
The smallest restaurant in the UK is The Little Chartroom in Edinburgh. It’s a cozy, intimate spot with just a few tables, offering a menu that’s big on flavor. The small setting makes for a personal and memorable dining experience.
What is Britain’s smallest pub?
The Signal Box Inn in Cleethorpes claims the title as the UK’s smallest pub. It’s a tiny pub with a big character, measuring just 8ft by 8ft! Despite its size, it offers a range of beers and ales, proving that good things do indeed come in small packages.
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