55 Jermyn Street, London, SW1Y 6LX

The great fact to bandy about Wiltons is that it’s older than the United States of America (the restaurant first opened 280 years ago). Looking good for its age, this is a place to perch up at the counter for oysters or find a booth at the back for luxe but traditional treats like Lobster Thermidor or an epic mixed grill.

4 Suffolk Pl, London SW1Y 4HX

For maximalists rather than minimalists this Italian restaurant took over a former bank just off Pall Mall, so expect acres of marble and gilt. In addition to the restaurant and bar, there’s also a walk-in wine cellar, whisky room and private dining room - it’s definitely a dress-up place for a special occasion.

1 Norris St, London SW1Y 4RJ

Finding well-priced restaurant options in St James can be a bit tricky but this Italian pizzeria is always a good bet. The USP here is that they use Mediterranean seawater in the pizza dough - that may sound gimmicky but the proof is in the eating and the pizzas are really good.

8 Pall Mall, London, SW1Y 5NG

Described by top chef Pierre Koffmann as “a restaurant of low-key excellence, serving some of the best food in the city” Wild Honey St James has seen chef Anthony Demetre turn this hotel restaurant into a genuine gastronomic destination. There’s a particularly good value set lunch option but if you can stay for longer, do order whatever seasonal iteration of the crisp Sutton Hoo chicken with pasta is on the menu.

73 St. James's Street, London SW1A 1PH

This longstanding restaurant moved from its original Chelsea location to St James in 2015. Here in its new home, it attracts a regular clientele of VIPs. The menu roams every region of India’s culinary landscape from Tandoori Sea Bass Amritsari to Goa Green Chicken Curry.