Rules

Rules stands as a magnificent piece of living history in Covent Garden — London’s oldest restaurant, founded in 1798 and devoted ever since to the celebration of classic British cooking. Inside its wood-panelled walls and velvet-draped dining rooms, theatrical portraits, Royal Warrant certificates, and generations of memorabilia pay homage to the city’s political, artistic, and culinary legacy. The menu honours traditional recipes, with seasonal game, pies, and robust puddings served with polished ceremony in an atmosphere that radiates refinement and charm. Ideal for special occasions, romantic dinners, or simply experiencing a grand old London institution, Rules offers a timeless dining experience in the heart of the capital. Critics praise the restaurant’s consistency, atmosphere, and authentic British fare, especially during game season, where the kitchen’s mastery of grouse and venison is on full display. The service is immaculate, contributing to what Hot Dinners calls one of London’s most transportive dining rooms. The restaurant’s setting and sense of occasion make it especially sought-after for Sunday roast, with lunch and dinner served Tuesday through Sunday. For those looking for something more exclusive, private dining upstairs offers a rare glimpse into an old-world club-like environment. This is classic fine dining at its most British — full of heritage, heart, and a deep reverence for tradition.