Piccadilly Circus, a crossroads of six major London thoroughfares, stands as a vibrant symbol of the city's West End. Built in 1819, its name refers to its circular form, though with the construction of Shaftesbury Avenue, it now boasts a distinctive, five-way junction. Renowned for its dazzling illuminated advertisements and the iconic Shaftesbury Memorial (affectionately known as Eros). It serves as a gateway to renowned cultural destinations like Leicester Square and Regent Street, offering a glimpse into the heart of London's vibrant entertainment and shopping scene.
With a wide selection of choices for lunch near Piccadilly Circus, an unfamiliar London traveller could very easily get lost in the options. However, for a truly special Picadilly Circus lunch, the best place to make a booking is the iconic seafood restaurant Bentley’s Oyster Bar.
Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is a major road junction and public space in the heart of London's West End. It's not just a traffic intersection, but a vibrant landmark teeming with tourists, locals, and street performers. Its distinctive, five-way junction, formed by the intersection of six major streets, is a sight to behold, especially at night when illuminated by neon signs and towering advertising displays.
What’s more, Piccadilly Circus is surrounded by an abundance of attractions, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the West End. Just a short walk away lies London's renowned theatre district, offering a smorgasbord of shows, from classic musicals to contemporary plays. Leicester Square is also nearby, home to cinemas, comedy clubs, and casinos, offering a lively atmosphere and entertainment options for all tastes. If you’d prefer some retail therapy, Regent Street boasts flagship stores of renowned brands, catering to luxury shoppers and fashion enthusiasts, as well as exciting Soho.
Lunch near Piccadilly Circus
Amidst the dazzling lights and vibrant energy, you’ll find a fantastic lunch choice near Piccadilly Circus: Bentley's Oyster Bar. Renowned for world-class seafood in a truly elegant setting, Bentley’s provides incredible service with menus crafted using the finest seasonal ingredients. You’ll find a selection of menus at Bentley’s, providing a selection of choice for your lunch near Picadilly Circus.
For those seeking a pre-theatre treat, the two or three course set menu, a decadent prelude to your evening's entertainment. Imagine yourself indulging in half a succulent lobster, plump prawns, and an array of oysters, mussels, and whelks – all presented with the refinement that defines Bentley's.
The á la carte menu is filled with fantastic choices. Imagine the rich, creamy depths of Lobster Bisque, infused with brandy and adorned with a light-as-air tarragon chantilly. Or perhaps the delicate smoky notes of Devon Smoked Eel, perfectly balanced by the earthy sweetness of potato blinis and tangy horseradish. Bentley's Oyster Bar doesn't shy away from classic comfort either. Savour the iconic British classic Fish and Chips, where the batter is light and crisp, encasing perfectly flaky cod. Or perhaps indulge in the legendary Bentley's Fish Pie, a comforting medley of seafood bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Other menu favourites include the Cornish Crab Conchigliette, balanced perfectly with fresh crab, chilli, and lemon, showcasing the vibrant flavours of the Cornish coast. And for a truly grand celebration, the Shellfish Platter presents a bounty of the sea, a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re looking for decadent lunch before an evening of fabulous entertainment, or you’re wandering in for a platter of oysters and a glass of fizz after a successful shopping trip along Regent Street, Bentley’s Oyster Bar provides the perfect lunch near Oxford Circus.
A tipple to match
Beyond the bounty of the sea, Bentley's Oyster Bar offers a liquid odyssey to pair. If there is one thing Bentley’s Oyster Bar does well it's celebration. When you have cause to celebrate or just an excuse to enjoy something spectacular, you’ll find iconic names like Charles Heidsieck and Devaux Veuve grace the menu, calling for you to fill your glass and toast to something special. For those seeking a taste of English terroir, Bentley's proudly presents delectable sparkling wines from Sussex, like the Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs – a true gem showcasing the potential of English soil. The white wine selection is a symphony, perfectly attuned to the delicate notes of seafood. Pair your dish with the crisp minerality of Pazo de Seoane, a Spanish Albariño that sings with citrus and white flowers. Or perhaps the zesty charm of Le Petite Lestrille Sauvignon Blanc, its herbaceous notes balancing the sweetness of shellfish.
While most associate seafood with whites, Bentley's caters to diverse palates. Explore their selection of reds, perfect for those seeking a fuller-bodied experience. Indulge in the vibrant acidity of a Solosole Vermentino, its Italian sunshine in a glass contrasting beautifully with the richness of lobster. Or perhaps enjoy the elegance of a Pouilly-Fumé Firmin Deazat, its Sauvignon Blanc grapes expressing themselves with mineral complexity and a touch of flint.
To ensure you find the perfect pairing, Bentley's Oyster Bar thoughtfully categorises their wine list by country and flavour profile, ensuring you can match your dish to the perfect pairing. Additionally, you’ll also find a fantastic selection of spirits, softs and cocktails crafted from the bar.
Centrally located
For the most sublime lunch near Picadilly Circus, Bentley’s Oyster Bar provides a fantastic á la carte menu, pre-theatre menu and a sensational wine list with a varied selection for any occasion.
Bentley's resides at 11 Swallow Street, nestled between Regent Street and Piccadilly, just a 3-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus Station. Its elegant exterior beckons you down a quiet side street, offering a welcome respite from the bustling heart of London. The nearest stations are Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines), Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines), and Oxford Circus (Central, Bakerloo, and Victoria lines).
Numerous buses also stop near Piccadilly Circus, including the 38, 9, and 98. From there, a short walk down Swallow Street leads you to Bentley's.