We had a good experience here last week and thought that the food, staff and atmosphere were lovely. The gentleman who served us was kind, funny and helpful with the menu. The food itself was traditional but delicious and had a few different twists that I hadn't seen before and the cocktails were excellent. Probably not somewhere we would go all the time (or could afford to go all the time!) but was a wonderful experience that our family won't forget.

My rule is rather simple, if a restaurant could continue operating for a couple hundreds years, it has to be good. It is not cheap and somehow touristic but so what? The place is a museum and the food is traditional and delicious. The wine list is simple and featuring some interesting French wine imported directly.

This is the oldest restaurant in London. It was a very nice place to take the family for Sunday dinner. We had the Roast Rib of Beef for two along with some Potatoes and Yorkshire Pudding. The steak was really nicely cooked and tasked OK. There really was not a lot of meat for what this meal cost. Remember the plate you see in the photo is for two people. The potatoes didn’t have much flavor and I wished I would have ordered the mashed instead. This was my first-time eating Yorkshire Pudding, and I didn’t care for it. My wife said that it was too burnt on the bottom for her liking. Overall, the atmosphere in this place was great, but I’m not sure it was worth the money. One thing that was superb was the service, they really know how to serve guests.

Officially one of my favourite London restaurants. The old world charm was very elegant. Service was impecable. We went up to the bar until our table was ready and then our waitor came to get us. This is very traditional English food, expertly made. We went for Sunday roast but I had Pheasant instead. The chips and roast potatoes here are the best I have ever had, ever! I see myself sitting on my own at the bar with a drink and chips in the future! 10/10 A big thanks to everyone. This was more than Lunch, it was an experience.

I went here with my brother last week. I’ve never been but my brother has been here about a dozen times (but not in the last 15 years). We had read that the food was not as good these days, but my brother thought it was as good as he remembered it. He said that it's famous for the steak and kidney pudding, but said the pie is the one to go for. Well, it was easily the best pie I’ve ever had, period. It was indescribably good – tender, juicy, perfect pastry. And a jug of gravy and perfect crunchy fat chips. I’ve thought longingly about that pie several times a day since I went, and I’ll be back at Rules the next time I’m in London.

Over the years the charm still exists and the staff still top notch. My first game season visit and I'd recommend a visit. Love the corridors filled with the restaurants history and the decor of old English. London's oldest restaurant and still going strong .

A very lovely, unique restaurant. Not as stuffy as you might imagine for such a smart place. The service was beautifully old-fashioned. I went for a solo lunch because I fancied a steak and kidney pudding. They squeezed me despite being fully booked online and from that moment I was very well looked after. Cocktails are pricey but impeccably made. House Red was very nice and reasonably priced. The S&K pudding was exactly what I wanted - it was gorgeous and plentiful and hard to finish. It’s well-priced at £22.50 but doesn’t come with veg so that’ll set you back an extra £5.50. Do visit. Don’t be put off by the grand look or the prices. You can luncheon here without breaking the bank (if you avoid the cocktails). Do visit the bar and ‘winter garden’ upstairs - both wonderful. Put your phone away and allow yourself to be pampered for a couple of hours. You won’t be disappointed.

Staff, were wonderful, lovely traditional British food. Lovely atmosphere really special place. Had an amazing day. Big thank you and recommended the place

Rules restaurant doesn’t get five stars for the food because eating at rules is much more about the experience. The dining room is beautiful a classic look with dark wood and red seats. The walls are decorated with old portraits and dozens of antlers. Upstairs, you’ll find a bar and lounge. The waiters dressed in formal attire are friendly and helpful. The food is traditional British food with a focus on game. at the right time of year, you can order wild grouse with the warning to look out for shot in the meat. I started with an Indian spiced quail, served with apricot chutney. For my main course, I opted for the steak and kidney pudding. This is a dish many people will avoid, but with gravy and sharp, yellow mustard. I really enjoyed it. For dessert I tried the sticky toffee pudding. Pass on this dish and go for the golden syrup sponge, served with crème anglais. It was the best dessert I had in London. I also enjoyed the gin list, including Christmas pudding gin. Bottom line: of all the restaurants I ate at in London Rules is the one I want to return to. Make sure if you are there you take advantage of the chance to eat at the oldest restaurant in London.

Rules is an experience. The $20 cocktails is nuts, so I settled on the $10 Guinness. The Chicken and Leak pie was tasty, but really just a fancy frozen chicken pot pie, not sure the price made sense. The dessert was out of this world though. All in all the history mixed with the ambiance of the place and good food makes Rules worthy of a visit, at least once. But, be sure to get reservations and dress really, really nice.

Location: Rules location is ideal, situated near Covent Garden, making it a convenient choice for those exploring the area. Food: If you're looking for traditional English dishes, this place is a must-visit. I highly recommend trying the roast rib of beef with Yorkshire pudding. Ambiance: Dining at this restaurant feels like stepping back in time. It holds the distinction of being the oldest restaurant in London, and the rich history is palpable in its ambiance. The decor and atmosphere are steeped in tradition, creating a unique and cozy setting for a meal. Overall, this restaurant is a perfect choice for guests who appreciate historic dining establishments. It offers a taste of traditional English cuisine in a venue that exudes history and charm.

Had a wonderful lunch here and had the Chicken Pie with a side of mash and also the Rules cocktail, maybe the best pie I've had in London. Service and attention was amazing, everyone was very friendly and welcoming. Would definitely recommend for a special occasion or a spoil yourself outing.

Wonderful old fashioned restaurant which makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time as you come in. There are lots of tourists but it’s still a great atmosphere and the service is attentive and professional. The food is delicious and served with great attention to detail. We were sadly too full to try dessert though!

Everything was perfect from the arrival, the service was excellent and the food “Rules”. Loved every single dish we tried. Will definitely recommend and come back soon.

Rules never disappoints. We celebrate occasions and go with visitors, we spend nice family moments. Great traditional atmosphere. Rib of beef is a classic and crumble too. They have good game. We like to start with oysters. Hope it never changes. No children allowed in the cocktail bar (understandable) but accepted in the restaurant. Our teenagers are foodies and loved it as a treat so they behaved!

This is quite a difficult review to write as you almost have to review it in two halves, firstly the surroundings, history, the ambiance, and the way it makes you feel when you enter the restaurant, and you are taken back to TV and movie scene's. The crab starter was fresh and tasty but still just okay, the Rib of beef was good, but barely warm and we had nearly an hour between starter and main being delivered, all main course on the table were the same. Although the horseradish sauce and sides were excellent, desserts are simple but tasty. This was my first time there, but not for my friends whom all commented that it was far below previous visits. With a bill of £170 per head, I was expecting something special, the restaurant delivered this, but the food sadly didn't for me. Unfortunately I don't feel the need to go back and see if it was just a one off. Don't get me wrong I'm glad I went, but London is full of places which delivery a better overal dining experience.

Great ambience as you expect, good selection of wines, great cocktails and aside the terrine that we ordered, the food was good. The steamed pud and lamb main were the highlight! Unfortunately that's where the positives end. Marketed as a game restaurant, there was no game on the menu or in the specials - which is a disappointment. For the restaurant of its stature, the service was just at par. When you pay the high prices, you expect food and service to follow, but it just didn't. Wouldn't be going back to be honest, not worth the spend but it is good to head there if you want to dine at the oldest restaurant in London :-)

Grand experience. The customer service is just amazing. You will even get a tour of the restaurant if you request. This is the oldest restaurant in London and was established in the year 1798. I came to know about this restaurant from the 2012 movie Skyfall. The restaurant was quite crowded when I visited but the food was royal. Thanks for the service. Cheers!

It is the oldest restaurant in London and is worth seeing once in a lifetime. It is typical English food. It has great quality and good wines. And a somewhat rocky decor but that is perfect in the concept of a legendary place.

For a true English gastronomic experience this is the place to come. The atmosphere, service and food are unique. Get here early and enjoy a perfect cocktail in the roof "garden". Rules will take you back in time and give you a few hours of pure joy. Thank you to all of you working to keep such high standards and make me feel at home. Yummmmyyyy!!!!

As always a wonderful meal (scallops special to start, duck as main and gorgeous but large chocolate bread and butter pudding to finish). The service was impeccable. Friendly, professional and informative. A bit pricey but a treat of an afternoon in a gorgeous dining room. Just perfect.

👍WONDERFUL BRITISH DINING EXPERIENCE 🇬🇧 Come to Rules for excellent service, phenomenal food, and authentic British ambiance. This is my new London favorite now! The oysters were super fresh and to die for, the steak and kidney pie as good as it can be, and the sticky toffee pudding the best I’ve ever had to this day. A meal I will never forget and definitely not my last visit to this gem of fine British dining and hospitality.

People misunderstand so many things these days. Do not misunderstand this: If you want to experience British Food at its best, don't think about these big name chefs like Ramsay and Co. Come Here! This is the real deal. The staff are first class, and nothing is too much trouble for them. So hospitable, so friendly, so exquisitely tasty. The pictures are of the Tandoori Quail starter, the Saddle of Rabbit main and of course, a Sticky Toffee Pudding. I cannot recommend the Sticky Toffee Pudding highly enough. This was the highlight of the meal (though that doesn't do the other dishes justice). Do yourself a favour as a treat. Go!

Simply the best London can offer. Staff are ever so accommodating and professional. Never be afraid this place is too fancy, the staff will put you at ease. And yes, you step back in time, in a sumptuous setting. I choose something different to eat each visit and have always been delighted. Oh! Also, the cocktail bar upstairs is a very nice way to begin your sitting. You are never rushed, but I wish time would slow upon entry. Somewhere I'd really recommend as a must visit! And the bill is comparatively reasonably priced, if you keep to one bottle of wine :)

Always love to visit The Rules when in London! The oldest restaurant of the city with a long history, traditional food, great taste and an amazing ambience. A must visit :) Update: We have been there last weekend and unfortunately the food was like the last years. Don’t know why. But anyway a great location!

Rules has been on my “bucket list” for years and I finally got to go and it didn’t disappoint. Everything was superb; decor, atmosphere, service and the food. Only probably was trying to decide what to choose! Fabulous restaurant with some amazing history.

Every time I visit London, I just have to visit rules. It’s a pilgrimage and for good reason. The food is traditional British fair at its best. we always go for a cocktail up in the bar upstairs for an aperitif to set the tone for a lovely meal downstairs. if you like, he will be in a tank and a state and kidney pudding as I do this is the place for you whether it’s just a weekday dinner or a special occasion you won’t be disappointed. it does get busy it is the oldest restaurant in London so be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Incredibly rude receptionist. We arrived early (5pm) for a dinner reservation (530pm) and was told with a frown of disgust that the table wasn’t ready when there was literally nobody in the restaurant. See my video. Fine we went to the bar first. But then we had to remind them to seat us, which happened 10 mins past my reservation time. Unacceptable for a place that required a deposit and our table back within a time 2 hour frame. At the time of writing it has been 20 mins since we ordered and the food hasn’t arrived so, no pics of food sorry. Edit: “medium rare” rump steak came

Great food and efficient friendly service, they have had some practice and forge along superbly.

Rules is a real treat and a great nod to the past. Being the oldest restaurant in London it has kept so much old world charm. The interior is amazing, so much fascinating history is hanging on the walls. Every member of staff is so polite and friendly, I wish more places had this charm. The food is not without its own charm too, a quality game menu that is well done. Wonderfully warming and satisfying, especially in the winter. To me there is nothing more Christmassy than when Rules puts their decorations up. I like to arrive early and go upstairs for a cocktail, the orangery is a dream. I always go for their suet pudding, the thought of it is making me smile.

This place never disappoints! The best British food and service at its best. Been many times and I’ll be back again. Do not miss the Steak & Kidney Pudding!

Age has not diminished the quality of the grub, and if you are into game, might as well have it in a place Gaston would love. Love the sponge cake and smoked eel. Venison, grouse, and cod were all great.

An absolutely delightful experience ⭐️ Traditional British food in a very atmospheric and romantic Michelin star-rated Restaurant with a great history. Staff were very attentive and very smartly attired. Highly recommend the Chicken, Leek & Mushroom Pie, and the sticky toffee pudding, which gave us the feeling of traveling centuries back in time! The entire evening at this place makes you feel a bit royal. We are looking forward to our next visit at London’s oldest Resturant!

Came with family visiting London for lunch on a Sunday. Rules provides British food at exceptionally high quality which is to be expected given its heritage. The staff were extremely attentive and the food was delicious. The only gripe I had was the slight sense of upselling when it came to starters but this was not too much of an issue since they were delicious when they arrived. Would definitely return, perhaps visiting the upstairs bar next time since it looked very nice also.

First day in London. Looking for a restaurant for dinner without making a reservation. I was told it would be a 45 minute wait, but they said there was a bar, so I had a cocktail and waited. I ate beef and deer steaks, and the service from the staff was excellent, and the taste was exquisite. I learned about the history of the restaurant and felt that it was a well-established restaurant.

Really really special British restaurant specializes in game dishes. It's my first time trying rabbit and grouse, absolutely loved them. Such classy deco as well. Definitely recommend a visit.

What an incredible restaurant. The food, service and attention to detail was outstanding!

Delighted to discover that the upstairs cocktail area had re-opened in the last few days. The Martini's were divine and the team involved, including the redoubtable Brian, were spot on.

Like an old friend that always welcome you.

Classic Historical restaurant serving trad Brit cuisine to the more refined clientele. This isn't your run of the mill pie & mash shop. This was the destination of the upper classes in the 18th century and the dandies and ladies of the later Victorian and Edwardian era. From brasserie brunch to fine dining. If someone tells you that British isn't renowned for its good, just bring them here. Long may they rule.

A famous (and really beautiful) restaurant that is worth visiting at least once. Booking in advance is a must. They serve traditional British food (I especially liked an apple crumble) so if you are not a fan maybe it is not for you. I also enjoyed my cappuccino and its creamy texture. The prices are a bit high but it is to be expected.

Amazing service, quality food at reasonable prices. Worth the trip if only for the winter garden cocktail bar upstairs. Excellent selection of wines. I thought I’d chance it and order the lamb rare, did not disappoint. Delicious

Amazing food and friendly welcoming staff really make this place a must visit. White table cloths and no music make this place initially feel quite stuffy, but as soon as your greeted and shown to your seat I relaxed and had an absolutely lovely time. We had the black velvet- champagne and guiness which was delicious, the tarien, rump steak and sticky toffee pudding. Everything was cooked to perfection. If you are not much if a sweet tooth then steer clear of the sticky toffee pudding because it is very sweet.

This is truly a delightful restaurant. It has masses of appeal from a historical perspective and serves the most delicious food. We had cocktails to start that would blow your socks off! Oysters chilled and served with a sherry wine vinegar to help the cocktail go down. A starter of scallops with white garlic and butter with a hazelnut crumb were sweet and delicate. Potted shrimp with dressed rocket and sourdough toast was light and full of flavour! Mains of steak and kidney pudding with the finest layer of suet crust and the softest beef was a thing of pure indulgence and a daub of venison with a spiced jus and celeriac purée and crumbly chestnut topped off with a perfectly poached quince was the best dish to eat! A plate of English cheese to round off a delicious meal with port and coffee just topped a perfect dining experience

Rules is a lovely old restaurant and building with tons of history! The food was 5/5 stars amazing. Honestly the most lovely piece of beef and great cocktails. I also loved the caesar salad. The service was not great. The staff member servicing us said they didn’t have any recommendations when asked what their favorite or most popular drink/meal was. Also was speaking very softly, making comments as they took the plates. It was honestly just odd, really took away from such a nice experience otherwise. Not very welcoming.

This place is one of the best meals ever. No Kidding! In addition to being the oldest restaurant in London, the service and food is outstanding. We had Pies, Lamb, and Steak all we very very good. The service was kind, funny, engaging, and knowledgeable! Thanks so much! Cheers until next time.

Really a very very old England place where you go first to enjoy past Times atmosphères . A large choice of cocktails at the cocktail bar where we were (a greenhouse surrounded by plants). As regards restaurant, cannot really opine since we could not get e table (you have to réserve well in avance). However, the cold snacks proposed were quite good in my opinion. Globally a very good moment in the oldest restaurant in London which remains up to its ambition.

It’s been quite a few years since I’ve been to Rules and it was husband’s first time - for his birthday. It did not disappoint, and in the best way it hasn’t changed. Fabulous service, wonderful ambience and the food is phenomenal. Also, we had to change the number of people in our booking, and then let them know we were running slightly late. They were beyond charming and accommodating. One of my favourite places.

One of the Oldest restaurants in London. Good oysters and superb lamb !!! A must in London when ever you can.

Faultless everything from the attentive staff to the food. Eating exquisite food in a time warp. Everybody needs to eat here at least once.

Honestly the best restaurant I’ve been too in terms of service, food and overall experience. Cocktail bar upstairs is an absolute must. We will be back. Don’t live in London but will stay overnight just for a return visit. Fantastic.

This place gets top marks from me. The service is brilliant. It’s very busy and for good reason. The quality of the food on offer is high and the dining experience is quite unique. We had the fish and chips and curry mac and cheese which were both delicious. Waitress was attentive throughout and the wait time was surprisingly quite short. I’d definitely come back here!

Still one of my favourite restaurants. Roast grouse is a particular favourite and they do it well here, as they do all game when in season. The service is very professional and suitably discreet and inside is one of the best restaurant interiors in London.

An absolute treat. We’ve dined 4 of us with some guests. We all had Steak and Kidney pie, it was so delicious, comfort food. Apple crumble is the best I’ve ever had. The decor is so traditional British. Lots of decorative details to take pictures of. Every tourist must visit Rules.

Perfect way to treat yourself in London! Rules is altogether elegant and delicious. The interior is rich and warm and the staff pampers you every minute of your stay. I had the chicken, leek and mushroom pie and oh my...it seriously melted in my mouth. My husband had the veal, which was awesome. And for dessert we (along with our friends) sampler the sticky toffee pudding, the caramel sponge and custard, and the apple lemon crumble. Topped it all off with coffee. Absolute perfection!

A London experience you must try. Had my first black velvet here (champagne and Guinness) and changed my world. We had the Rib of beef for two with Yorkshire pudding and this was spot on. Wait staff were great and the history was humbling when you see how old the restaurant is. With restaurants coming and going, there is a reason this place survived and you should try and experience this place.

Delicious and neat and clean environment!

What a treat in these torrid covid times to have such an excellent lunch at one of London's culinary institutions...food was really excellent and best bloody Mary in town. Thank you.

One of my favourite places. It's special.....RULES please come back?! Once we are out of this mess.....! 🙏

Love this restaurant, the owner is a smart man !!

top top restaurant

My favourite historical, traditional restaurant. Room, location, service, history and bar are wonderful - Rules ticks all the boxes! Make time to visit the first floor cocktail bar and have one of Brian Silva's heavenly cocktails. Drinks will never be the same afterwards!

Seeped in antiquity the Rules restaurant screams British tradition. With its elegant atmosphere and stellar service your dining experience can be nothing but grand. Last there I had game meat and it was brilliant. Truth be told, this is not the absolute best place for food in London but when paired with the interior it makes for a lovely meal. The best time to go, in my opinion, is during Christmas time, when the old-time decorations leave you feeling like you are in old world London. Truly marvelous. Another fabulous perk of Rules restaurant its cocktail bar (I will review separately).

Impeccable. Couldn't rate this place higher. Outstanding. Service is wonderful. Food is spectacular. You'll feel like royalty. Just go, its worth it!

Excellent

Great food, brilliant service and lovely atmosphere

Good food. Good service

Great Experience.

Pleasant experience. Highly recommended

A special lunch with grouse and partridge in this historical place. Warm atmosphere, traditional cuisine, attentive service, slightly uncomfortable yet intimate seating, Rules remains exactly what you expect and why you go there for.

This is the best place in London for a relaxing meal, the food is fantastic, the service is wonderful and nothing is to much trouble. I have been coming here for years and will continue to do do.

I don't think it gets more classically British than Rules. It's like you stepped into the 1800's and everyone just finished a hunt and was looking for a nice warm meal and a stiff drink. The best food to order is obviously the game and a bottle of red wine, can't go wrong with that. I had venison, it was cooked perfectly. The staff is pretty formal, a little uptight if anything, but with the reputation of this establishment, I suppose they have a right too.

An outstanding looking place, taking you back in time with the decor, service and meals were very pleasant, I had a Chicken and Leek pie and apple crumble for dessert, my wife had Venison but she found it a tad overcooked, apart from that, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and will call back again, excellent Covid-19 safety in place

Extraordinary, real historic und charming.

Amazing restaurant. London oldest restaurant, over 200 years old. Brilliant food.

A must gp in London!

Lovely dining. Excellent food and service.

If you want a great meal in a great historic location then go here its nit cheap but classic menu and fantastic atmosphere

Just a very special place. We were treated like kings. Fabulous food.

What an excellent place... food and service! The rib of beef absolutely delicious...

Excellent evening at Rules with fantastic food and attentive service. Thank you for a very relaxed and enjoyable evening. Dr Terry Keech

very nice the atmosphere is amazing culm and food fanatic's

Nice vibe with good food.

(Translated by Google) I'm glad the floor has reopened. We enjoy a cocktail before this meal. The food is quintessentially British and has always been good. The service is friendly and quick. (Original) Je suis content que l'étage ait rouvert. Nous dégustons un cocktail avant ce repas. La nourriture est typiquement britannique et a toujours été bonne. Le service est sympathique et rapide.

Cannot fault the service - menu is not what it was but still one of my favourite places to go

service 10 out of 10

Amazing 😉

A true British institution! The service is impeccable and food along with it. Always one of my first stops in London!

Very tasty food, well presented. Great service too, very friendly and welcoming. I'll come back!

(Translated by Google) I asked the guide to take it when I traveled to London. It's the oldest restaurant in London where the royal family, Churchill, Chaplin, etc. went. Anyway, its history is exuded in the behavior of buildings and employees. I enjoyed my meal time in a wonderful atmosphere. (Original) ロンドン旅行の際にガイドさんに取って頂き伺いました。王室の方やチャーチル、チャップリンなども通ったロンドンで一番古いレストランだとか。とにかく建物や従業員の立ち居振る舞いにその歴史が滲み出ています。素晴らしい雰囲気の中で楽しく食事の時間を過ごすことができました。

Frequently changing Modern British cuisine served in 2 airy dining rooms with stained-glass windows.

Love love love this place! Perfection every time!

This place is insane - Guy recommended all our dishes and they were so delicious - especially the pata negra. This is the best restaurant in London hands down!!! Spectacular food, service and atmosphere... thank you we loved it! Willis and Izzy

Environment was nice and lovely.

what sort of name is rules lol

The BEST. No more explanation required. In every respect. London at its very finest. Thank you.

Gorgeous restaurant with a wonderful history. Great service, food and drinks. Hidden winter garden upstairs is great for a post dinner cocktail.

Lovely hearty food, with great service, in a truly historic and atmospheric setting. Highly recommended.

Old school British food, with old fashioned surroundings. Great staff, a bit pricey (e.g. tiny oysters, full priced) but harks back to the days of limited restaurant choices I suppose. Food tasty. Strange Maggie thatcher mural on the wall!

Before the dinning, I really enjoy the old fashioned and this very historic beautiful restaurant. Staffs and services are excellent. Foods are traditional and good. But some plastic pieces found in my dessert. As a MICHELIN Guide restaurant, I feel disappointed. (Moreover, the wine list is really...boring.)

Excellent food and services in a gorgeous space with rich histories and fascinating stories. Fresh and creamy Loch Ryan native oysters! The Rules toffee pudding was fantastic. However it’s Wine choices can be further improved.