About The Portrait
Perched on the fourth floor of the National Portrait Gallery, The Portrait Restaurant offers panoramic views across Trafalgar Square and a menu rooted in seasonal British & Irish produce. Led by Richard Corrigan, the kitchen celebrates forgotten classics and fresh interpretations — from shellfish and fish specialities to seasonal game, meats and desserts — all served across the restaurant, Kitchen Counter and Bar.
This FAQ page is designed to answer questions about reservations, dress code, dining, and more to help you plan your perfect evening at The Portrait Restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are your opening hours?
- Sunday–Tuesday: Lunch 11:30–17:30 (last sitting 15:30)
- Wednesday–Saturday: All-day dining 11:30–22:30 (last sitting 20:15)
Please check the What’s On page for special events or seasonal changes.
2. How do I make a reservation?
You can book online via the website, email reservations@theportraitrestaurant.co.uk, or call 020 3872 7610. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings, Kitchen Counter seats, and private events.
3. What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that all cancellations be made at least 24 hours prior to your reservation time. No-shows or late cancellations will incur a charge of £20 per person, applied to the card on file. For security reasons, we may request identification on arrival that matches the credit card provided and may hold this ID for the duration of your visit. Management reserves the right to refuse admission at any time.
4. Do you accept walk-ins?
While we prioritise reservations, we do accommodate walk-ins whenever availability allows. However, due to high demand, especially during lunch, dinner, and pre-theatre hours, booking in advance is strongly recommended.
5. Are children allowed at The Portrait?
Yes, children are welcome. Please note that high chairs are limited, and we recommend mentioning any requirements when booking.
6. Do you cater to dietary requirements and allergies?
Yes. Our team can accommodate most dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and pescatarian diets. Please inform us in advance so the kitchen can prepare accordingly.
7. Is there a dress code?
We encourage smart casual attire. Sportswear and beachwear are discouraged.
8. Is The Portrait wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The National Portrait Gallery and the restaurant are fully accessible, including lifts to the fourth floor. If you require additional assistance, please let our team know before your visit.
9. Do you accept large group bookings?
Yes, we welcome groups and private events. For group dining, private dinners, or exclusive hire, please contact our events team via reservations@theportraitrestaurant.co.uk.
10. How long is the dining experience?
Standard dining time is 1 hour and 45 minutes for smaller tables and 2 hours for larger groups. If you need to be out before a theatre show, please mention this in your reservation notes.
11. Do you offer gift vouchers?
Yes, gift vouchers are available and can be purchased directly on our website. They make an ideal treat for lovers of British cuisine or those visiting the National Portrait Gallery.
12. Where exactly are you located?
The Portrait is located within the National Portrait Gallery, Fourth Floor, St Martin’s Place, overlooking Trafalgar Square. The entrance is through the main gallery doors.
13. Do you offer a set menu?
Yes. The Portrait offers seasonal set menus featuring the best of British and Irish produce. Guests seeking set menu restaurants, the best set menu, or set menu deals in London will find exceptional value and quality.
14. Is there a set lunch menu available?
Yes. Our set lunch menu in London is popular among guests visiting the Gallery or working nearby. It is considered one of the best set lunch menus in London, offering refined dishes and a relaxed dining setting with views across the city.
15. Do you provide a pre-theatre dinner menu?
Yes, we are ideally located for pre-theatre dining near Trafalgar Square. Our pre-theatre menu is designed to be served efficiently without compromising on taste or quality.
16. Is The Portrait good for dinner with a view in London?
Absolutely. With panoramic views across Trafalgar Square, The Portrait is one of the best restaurants in London with a view. It is ideal for romantic evenings, special occasions, and sophisticated dinners.
17. Is The Portrait one of the best British restaurants in London?
The Portrait is highly regarded for its modern approach to British and Irish cuisine. With seasonal menus crafted by Richard Corrigan, it is often recommended among the best British restaurants in London.
18. Do you offer Sunday lunch or Sunday roast?
Yes, The Portrait offers a refined Sunday dining experience inspired by British culinary traditions. Guests seeking Sunday lunch in London or a traditional British Sunday roast will enjoy our seasonal dishes.
19. Is The Portrait good for private dining or group events?
Yes. The Portrait is a leading choice for private dining, corporate dinners, team-building events, and group dining in central London. Exclusive hire options are also available.
20. Is The Portrait open late?
The restaurant serves all-day dining Wednesday–Saturday until 10:30 PM (last seating 8:15 PM). On Tuesdays, dining is available until 9 PM. For guests looking for late night food London or late dinner in London, The Portrait offers elegant late-evening options.
21. Do you have a bar?
Yes. Our bar is ideal for cocktails near Trafalgar Square, rooftop-style drinks with a view, and pre-dinner aperitifs. The bar is open throughout the day for wines, cocktails, and snacks.
22. Does The Portrait offer wine or champagne tastings?
Yes. Guests seeking wine tasting London, champagne tasting in London, or curated wine experiences may contact the events team to arrange bespoke sessions.
23. Are there restaurants near Trafalgar Square with a view?
The Portrait is located directly above Trafalgar Square, offering some of the most iconic dining views in London. It is often listed among the best restaurants near Trafalgar Square and restaurants overlooking Trafalgar Square.