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The Restaurants, Bars and Clubs to See and Be Seen During London Fashion Week

The new openings, revived institutions and discreet members’ clubs that anchor the city’s unofficial Fashion Week itinerary.

London has no shortage of members’ clubs, trendy hotspots and in-the-know restaurants. But during London Fashion Week (on the calendar for Sept. 17-21 this fall), there are the seemingly cool places, and then there are the actually cool places. Because the British city has had so many new openings in the past few years, not all of the old-school haunts for LFW are still of-the-moment. Instead, designers and magazines are gravitating to fresh openings like Bar Finch or reimagined classics like Simpson’s in the Strand for gatherings and parties. Recently opened restaurants like One Club Row, Osteria Vibrato and Dante Mayfair have also proven popular with the in-crowd in recent months. 

Although LFW shows tend to happen all over London, often in cultural venues or museums, most attendees congregate around Soho, Mayfair and Covent Garden—neighborhoods with plenty of good restaurants, bars and members’ clubs. The designers, stylists, models and A-list celebs gather for official afterparties and unofficial dinners, often taking over private dining rooms or even entire restaurants. While you’re not guaranteed to see someone important during LFW, spending time in certain places increases your likelihood. Here are the 15 best restaurants, bars and members’ clubs to see and be seen during London Fashion Week.

The Ultimate Guide to Experiencing London During Fashion Week

Simpson’s in the Strand

Poon’s at Somerset House

Simpson’s in the Strand

100 Strand, London WC2R 0EW

The revitalized Simpson’s in the Strand, which reopened in March, is an ideal spot to mingle with a buzzy crowd, whether it’s during breakfast, at the bar or during the very popular dinnertime rush. Since coming back to life, the historic venue has hosted events for British Vogue, GQ and Burberry, quickly cementing its status in the fashion industry. It’s home to two restaurants, Grand Divan and Romano’s, along with Simpson’s Bar, and the food is classic English, some of which arrives tableside on the iconic trolleys. It will certainly host more events during LFW, but you can also book a table yourself.

6 Greek St, London W1D 4DE

Since opening in February, Osteria Vibrato has wooed diners with its buzzy atmosphere and Italian dishes that showcase the cuisine of various regions across Italy. It’s chaotic and loud, with tables packed together and drinks arriving rapidly. It feels like New York by way of Italy, and the crowd tends to reflect that, comprising Soho locals, London foodies and discerning visitors. Share the white risotto with 30-month Parmigiano Reggiano, an easy favorite that never leaves the menu, and be sure to take advantage of the wine list, which features Italian and French labels.

1 Surrey St,........

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