Seconds from the dazzling lights of Piccadilly Circus, discover one of London's most historic restaurants - an iconic Piccadilly Circus restaurant in the heart of the West End.
Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill, just off Piccadilly Circus, is a historic West End seafood institution serving oysters, classic dishes and seasonal menus since 1916. Menus range from pre‑theatre to à la carte, complemented by an extensive wine, Champagne and cocktail list guided by expert sommeliers. Centrally located on Swallow Street, Bentley’s is easily reached by Tube, bus or on foot from major London landmarks.
Serving oysters, fish and chips and fine seafood to hungry Londoners since 1916, this beloved West End restaurant is a must visit spot during your trip to London.
History of Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and a must‑visit destination for anyone exploring the West End. Created in 1819 to connect Regent Street with Piccadilly, the famous junction quickly became a central meeting point in the heart of the city. Over time, it evolved from a simple traffic intersection into a vibrant hub of entertainment, shopping and dining, surrounded by historic theatres, restaurants and cultural attractions.
Named after the “piccadill” collars sold by a local tailor in the 17th century, Piccadilly Circus is best known today for its dazzling neon advertising screens, which have lit up the area since the early 20th century, and the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, often referred to as the statue of Eros. Sitting at the crossroads of major streets including Shaftesbury Avenue and Coventry Street, it is also the gateway to London’s Theatreland, with world‑famous venues just steps away.
For visitors, Piccadilly Circus offers more than just history; it’s one of the best places to experience the energy of London. Surrounded by top attractions, West End theatres, luxury shopping on Regent Street and a wide range of restaurants, it’s an ideal starting point for sightseeing or an evening out. Whether you’re planning a theatre trip, looking for places to eat near Piccadilly Theatre, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this iconic location remains at the heart of London’s cultural scene.
Eating near Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus isn't just a place; it's a sensory experience. Digital billboards bathe the intersection, vying for your attention with ever-changing visuals with dazzling displays showcasing the latest West End productions. The pulse of the West End theatre district beats loudest here.
Not too far away, you’ll also find an abundance of restaurants near Piccadilly Circus, one of the most iconic: Bentley’s, an exceptional oyster bar and grill with an incredible menu.
Restaurants near Piccadilly Circus
The best restaurants near Piccadilly Circus combine exceptional service, incredible food and a truly unrivalled dining experience. All of which you’ll find at the iconic Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill.
Catching a West End show? Bentley's pre-theatre menu is a culinary masterpiece that will prepare you for the theatrics ahead. The Bentley’s Pre-theatre menu includes the most exceptional ever changing set menu, including all of the best ingredients the land and sea has to offer, if we do say so ourselves.
The A La Carte menu is equally exceptional, with a fresh oyster bar and some of the most delicious shellfish found within Oxford Circus and beyond. Begin your Bentley’s experience with crispy Tempura Octopus or a balanced and refreshing Thai Crab and Mussel Soup, before tucking into some of Bentley’s classics: Classic Fish Pie, Fish and Chips, Smoked Haddock, or perhaps the perfectly golden Game Bird Pie. Better still, indulge in delicious Lobster Thermidor, or perhaps mark the event with a portion of the finest Petrossian Osetra Royal caviar.
To finish off your Bentley’s experience, enjoy something sweet and delicate from the dessert menu. The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect choices such as an elegant Apple Tart, decadent Crème Caramel, or a traditional Sticky Toffee Pudding. If you prefer to end on a savoury note, Bentley’s also boasts a selection of tantalising cheeses to choose from.
Raise a glass to that
The Bentley’s drinks menu is comprised of plenty of choices, so you can always be matched with your preferred tipple whether you’re enjoying a group dinner with friends, a romantic date with the one you love, or perhaps a lavish lunch amidst your shopping spree. If wine is your preference, choose between a decadent Bordeaux, the robust harmony of a Barolo, or the elegant counterpoint of a Sancerre. The knowledgeable Bentley’s sommeliers will guide you through the menu, ensuring the perfect pairing to your chosen dish.
Of course, if you prefer a crisp white to pair with your seafood dish, choose between an elegant New Zealand Pinot Noir or the vibrancy of a California Cabernet Sauvignon. Better still, if your visit calls for bubbles (and it should certainly call for bubbles), you’ll find a selection of Champagne and English Sparkling on the menu, all of which pair delightfully with the entirety of Bentley’s menu.
The Bentley’s menu stretches far beyond just wine; however, you’ll also find a vast selection of spirits behind the bar, including choice vodka, a selection of gin, fantastically aged whiskey and plenty more. Bentley’s also boasts a divine cocktail menu with elegant classics such as The Vesper: Beefeater London Dry, Absolut Elyx and Lillet Blanc, Bentlini: Beefeater Gin, Italicus, Citro Strawberry and Piper-Heidsieck Champagne, and creative concoctions such as the Spicy Smoked Margarita: Olmeca Altos Plata, Cointreau, Lime Juice, Vida Mezcal and homemade spicy Agave Syrup. Whatever your tipple of choice, the Bentley’s bar will certainly be able to assist.
Centrally located
Nestled on Swallow Street, just off Piccadilly Circus, Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill offers a tranquil and elegant setting to enjoy some of London’s most delicious food. One of the finest restaurants near Piccadilly Circus and renowned for its seasonal menus and iconic oyster bar, a visit to Bentley’s is truly a grand affair. Its prime location puts you within easy reach of iconic landmarks and offers various transportation options, making it easily accessible for any visitor, should you be dipping into central London for some shopping, indulging in a pre-theatre dinner, or simply stopping by for the iconic Fish Pie.
If you’re travelling from within London, Bentley’s is incredibly accessible. Green Park station on the Piccadilly line is a 5-minute walk, and Bond Street station on the Jubilee line is also within walking distance. There are several bus route stops on Piccadilly and Oxford Street, both within walking distance of Bentley's and for those who enjoy a leisurely stroll, Bentley's is a 20-minute walk from iconic landmarks such as Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus.