What should I order at Rules?
Rules
Grouse
Frequently recommended especially during grouse season, praised for being some of the best tasting game, sourced from the restaurant's own estate lands, making it a must-try for visitors.
Steak and Kidney Pudding
Mentioned multiple times as a superb traditional British dish, often noted with an oyster on top, delivering a rich and authentic flavor experience.
Roast Beef (including Roast Rib of Beef for Two)
Highly praised for its hearty and delicious taste, perfectly cooked with excellent accompaniments like Yorkshire pudding and horseradish; considered a classic and standout main course.
Duck Breast
Described as tender, full of flavor, and perfectly cooked, often mentioned alongside perfectly prepared potatoes, making it a memorable and highly recommended dish.
Sticky Toffee Pudding
A classic dessert repeatedly recommended for its unctuous, perfectly executed traditional flavor, often cited as exactly how sticky toffee pudding should be.
Summer Pudding
Recommended as a fabulous and divine dessert option that is bright, refreshing, and indulgent, highly praised by multiple reviewers.
Dauphinoise Potatoes
Mentioned frequently as a perfect side dish with creamy texture and a nice crisp top, complementing many main courses effectively.
Caesar Salad
Noted for being crisp and delicious with excellent execution, recommended as a starter or side.
Hours
| Monday | 12 to 10 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 12 to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 12 to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 12 to 10 PM |
| Friday | 12 to 11 PM |
| Saturday | 12 to 11 PM |
| Sunday | 12 to 10 PM |
About Rules
Established in 1798, serving classic British food (especially game) in Edwardian surrounds.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Onsite services
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fireplace
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Private dining room
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Historic
- Romantic
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is Rules known for?
Rules is best known for its steak and kidney pudding, which appears repeatedly in reviews as a signature dish. Guests also come for the historic Covent Garden setting, the classic British menu, and the sense of dining in London’s oldest restaurant.
What dishes are most recommended at Rules?
Reviewers most often recommend the steak and kidney pudding, roast beef, sticky toffee pudding, oysters, venison, and the Sunday roast. People also mention potted shrimps, braised shoulder of lamb, pork cheeks, and Yorkshire pudding as standouts on the traditional menu.
What is the atmosphere like at Rules?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, historic, romantic, and upscale, with Edwardian decor, portraits, paintings, and a fireplace. It suits couples, groups, and visitors who want a formal, old-world meal in central London rather than a casual neighborhood dinner.
Is Rules good value, and what is the price range?
Rules is in the $$$$ range, and reviewers consistently say it is expensive. They also say the quality of the food, service, and historic experience makes it worth the price, especially for dishes like steak and kidney pudding, roast beef, and sticky toffee pudding.
Do you need a reservation at Rules, and when should you go?
Yes, reservations are recommended for both lunch and dinner, and the restaurant is often busy enough that a wait is common. Reviewers suggest booking earlier in the evening, since a very late reservation can overlap with closing preparations and make the meal less relaxed.
Is parking available at Rules?
Yes. Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Does Rules have vegetarian options?
Yes, Rules offers vegetarian options.
Restaurants like Rules in London
Why use AI food recommendations?
Skip the Menu
No need to trust waiters or get overwhelmed by the menu
Explained Choices
Provides context and explanations for why each dish is recommended
Find things to do & top restaurants in any city