Insights

In the world of recruitment, first impressions matter. The environment in which you choose to meet a client can say just as much about you as your pitch does. In a vibrant city like London, there’s no need to settle for a bland boardroom or a noisy café.

To celebrate National Brunch Month, we have put together a list of our favourite brunch spots in the city. Each of these venues strikes a balance between elegance and comfort, making them ideal for building rapport with clients, closing deals, or just having a solid conversation over great food.

1. Cecconi’s, Mayfair

5A Burlington Gardens, W1S 3EP

Effortlessly chic with old-school Italian glamour, Cecconi’s brings together marble interiors, plush velvet, and a clientele that’s equal parts stylish and influential. It is a sophisticated restaurant without being intimidating, which means it’s great for relationship-building in a relaxed but polished setting.

Favourite dish: Smoked salmon & scrambled eggs or avocado benedict.

2. The Wolseley, Piccadilly

160 Piccadilly, W1J 9EB

Housed in a grand former car showroom, this art-deco institution is a favourite among seasoned professionals for a good reason. The Wolseley is ideal for formal meetings or clients who appreciate tradition and refined service.

Favourite dish: Eggs benedict or smoked haddock kedgeree.

3. Duck & Waffle, Bishopsgate

40th Floor, 110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY

One of the highest restaurants in London, this spot combines skyline views with bold brunch dishes and creative flair. It is a high-impact setting for high-energy conversations.

Favourite dish: Duck & waffle (signature) or the crème brûlée french toast.

4. 34 Mayfair, Mayfair

34 Grosvenor Square, W1K 2HD

Sleek and inviting, with modern art on the walls and a warm feel, 34 Mayfair is ideal for a range of clients. Elegant but low-key, great for introductions as well as second or third meetings where comfort counts.

Favourite dish: Buttermilk fried chicken croffle or 34 eggs benedict.

5. The Ivy Chelsea Garden, Chelsea

195-197 King’s Road, SW3 5EQ

An urban sanctuary with florals, garden terraces, and a crowd that mixes local residents with industry professionals. The Ivy Chelsea Garden strikes that rare balance between being right in the heart of London, yet still feeling like an escape. Perfect for more relaxed, open-ended conversations.

Favourite dish: The Ivy full English breakfast or hot buttermilk pancakes.

6. Corinthia Hotel, Whitehall

Whitehall Place, SW1A 2BD

For an ultra-refined experience, brunch at Corinthia is second to none. Offering immaculate service, and a menu that feels like an occasion in itself, this venue is perfect for those very important meetings, and for clients you want to impress.

Favourite dish: The lobster Arnold Bennett or chorizo baked eggs.

7. Berners Tavern, Fitzrovia

10 Berners Street, W1T 3NP

Jason Atherton's grand, design-led dining room in Ian Schrager's London Edition Hotel, blending ornate interiors with contemporary flair—ideal for impressing clients over seasonal British dishes in a truly iconic setting.

Favourite dish: Fondue baked eggs or the orange Chantilly croissant.

8. Dean Street Townhouse, Soho

69-71 Dean Street, W1D 3SE

A charming Soho spot with a distinctly British feel, Dean Street Townhouse pairs vintage elegance with cosy intimacy—perfect for relaxed client meetings over classic comfort food in stylish surroundings.

Favourite dish: Eggs royale or seed porridge, banana, muscovado.

9. Riding House, Fitzrovia

43-51 Great Titchfield Street, W1W 7PQ

A vibrant all-day brasserie in the heart of Fitzrovia, Riding House blends eclectic interiors with a laid-back buzz—ideal for casual client catch-ups or team breakfasts with a creative twist.

Favourite dish: Any of the malted deep dish pancakes or smoked Cajun shakshuka.

10. Granger & Co, Marylebone

105 Marylebone High Street, W1U 4RS 

Known for its relaxed, sun-drenched vibe, Granger & Co. is ideal for those meetings that are slightly more casual. With a light, upbeat environment, it is the best spot for building rapport in a comfortable setting, helping foster professional connections without the pressure of a more formal venue.

Favourite dish: Hot smoked chalkstream trout or the sunny egg brioche roll.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a brunch spot that’s both high-end and approachable can help clients relax at meetings, whilst showing them you also understand taste, detail, and intention.

Whether you're nurturing relationships or making a good first impression, these London brunch spots offer the kind of setting that makes conversations flow and deals close. Not only that, but the food is top-notch.

Enjoy!