Food

 

London's Best Sustainable Restaurants and Cafés

As sustainability becomes a top priority for food lovers, London is leading the way with an array of eco-friendly restaurants and cafés. From zero-waste dining to locally sourced ingredients, these spots are proving that delicious food and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Whether you’re a dedicated eco-warrior or simply looking for a greener way to eat out, here are some of the best sustainable dining options in the capital.


1. Silo London – The Pioneering Zero-Waste Restaurant

Located in Hackney, Silo is the UK’s first zero-waste restaurant. Designed with sustainability at its core, everything from the menu to the furniture is created with minimal environmental impact.

  • Why It’s Sustainable:

    • Uses whole ingredients to eliminate food waste.

    • Operates a closed-loop system with local suppliers.

    • Composting and upcycled furnishings reduce the environmental footprint.

  • Must-Try Dish: The house-made bread and butter—crafted with heritage grains and churned on-site.


2. Farmacy – Plant-Based and Organic Dining

Situated in Notting Hill, Farmacy is known for its organic, plant-based dishes made from fresh, chemical-free ingredients. The restaurant sources from its farm in Kent, ensuring minimal transport emissions.

  • Why It’s Sustainable:

    • Supports regenerative agriculture.

    • Uses seasonal and locally grown ingredients.

    • Avoids processed foods and artificial additives.

  • Must-Try Dish: The Pharmacy Burger—made with millet, black beans, and mushrooms, served with sweet potato fries.


3. The Duke of Cambridge – The UK’s First Organic Pub

This Islington-based gastropub is fully certified organic and champions sustainable, ethically sourced food. It partners with Riverford Organic Farms to bring fresh, seasonal produce to the table.

  • Why It’s Sustainable:

    • Organic certification ensures no harmful pesticides or chemicals.

    • Seasonal menus reduce carbon footprint.

    • Ethical sourcing of meat and seafood.

  • Must-Try Dish: Beer-battered fish and chips with sustainably caught fish.


4. Poco Tapas Bar – Award-Winning Sustainable Tapas

Located in Broadway Market, Poco Tapas Bar is committed to using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients while minimizing waste.

  • Why It’s Sustainable:

    • Over 90% of ingredients are sourced from the UK.

    • Food waste is composted or repurposed.

    • Ethical meat and dairy sourcing.

  • Must-Try Dish: Smoked mackerel pâté with pickled cucumbers and sourdough toast.


5. Redemption – Vegan, Alcohol-Free, and Zero Waste

With locations in Covent Garden and Shoreditch, Redemption is a unique alcohol-free, plant-based eatery focusing on wellness and sustainability.

  • Why It’s Sustainable:

    • Entirely plant-based menu.

    • Avoids food waste by using every part of the ingredient.

    • Offers zero-alcohol cocktails made with natural ingredients.

  • Must-Try Dish: Buddha Bowl—a vibrant mix of quinoa, roasted vegetables, avocado, and house-made hummus.


6. Apricity – Sustainable Fine Dining

Led by Chef Chantelle Nicholson, Apricity in Mayfair offers a refined, sustainability-focused dining experience. The restaurant embraces a low-waste philosophy while serving seasonal, local dishes.

  • Why It’s Sustainable:

    • Works with sustainable farmers and foragers.

    • Focuses on whole-animal and root-to-stem cooking.

    • Zero-waste and circular economy practices are in place.

  • Must-Try Dish: Fermented potato bread with whipped butter and seasonal accompaniments.


7. Tredwells – A Michelin Green-Starred Restaurant

Tredwells, also led by Chantelle Nicholson, has earned its Michelin Green Star for its strong commitment to sustainability.

  • Why It’s Sustainable:

    • Championing plant-based and flexitarian menus.

    • Works closely with local, sustainable suppliers.

    • Reduces food waste through innovative cooking techniques.

  • Must-Try Dish: Seasonal tasting menu featuring creative, plant-led dishes.


Final Thoughts

London’s culinary scene is increasingly embracing sustainability, offering conscious consumers a variety of eco-friendly dining options. Whether it’s zero-waste innovations, organic farm-to-table meals, or plant-based gastronomy, these restaurants and cafés prove that dining sustainably doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Next time you’re looking for a meal out, consider visiting one of these spots to support a greener, healthier planet—one delicious bite at a time.