Rules
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"Authentic Old London Experience with Delicious Dessert"
We came to the "oldest restaurant in London" with a reservation and were seated right away. The atmosphere is classy and elegant, truly feeling like a step back in time, which adds to the charm of the experience. We tried the beef kidney pie, roasted lamb rump, and the day's specials: an asparagus appetizer and venison cottage pie. The traditional British dishes were good for what they were, but the prices were definitely on the higher end. I wasn’t thrilled with paying £18 for just five sticks of asparagus. However, the sticky toffee pudding was a highlight — perfectly balanced, not overly sweet, and absolutely delicious. The service, unfortunately, was only average. Overall, I’d recommend this restaurant if you’re looking for an authentic taste of old London, but be prepared for a pricey experience.
"A Timeless Dining Experience at Rules – A True London Institution"
We had an unforgettable experience at Rules, a true London institution founded in 1798, making it the oldest restaurant in the city. The atmosphere is absolutely incredible, with its Edwardian decor creating a vintage British charm that truly transports you back in time. It’s no wonder they’ve filmed scenes from Downton Abbey here! We started with oysters, the Kelly Native, which were fresh and delicious. For mains, we shared the pork cheek (great), the braised lamb shoulder (the standout dish), and the salt-aged sirloin (good). The sides were equally impressive — the chips and endive salad were great, and the Caesar salad was excellent. We paired our meal with a jug of Burgundy red wine, which complemented the dishes perfectly. Though I’m not usually one for sweet desserts, the chocolate moelleux was exceptional — a perfect end to a lovely meal. The service was top-notch, with friendly and accommodating staff making the experience even more enjoyable. Considering the overall experience, the price point is quite reasonable, and I would highly recommend Rules for a special occasion, business dinner, or even a romantic date. Truly a must-visit when in London!
"Fabulous Food, But Service Letdown at the End"
The food at the restaurant was absolutely fabulous, and the service was great throughout most of the meal. However, our experience took a turn towards the disappointing towards the end. When we tried to order a cheese course, we were told we needed to vacate the table. When we explained that we had been waiting for someone to come by and take our order, the manager insisted that wasn’t the case, which left us feeling frustrated and upset. This interaction completely soured an otherwise enjoyable experience, and sadly, we won’t be returning. It's a shame, as the food and service up until that point were excellent.
"Beautiful Ambiance and Fantastic Espresso Martinis"
The restaurant itself is incredibly beautiful, filled with character and charm. The waiters are friendly and attentive, making you feel well looked after throughout your visit. The food was good, though nothing particularly extraordinary. However, according to our waiter, they serve the best espresso martinis in town — and we have to agree! They were absolutely fantastic. A lovely place to enjoy a great drink and soak in the atmosphere.
"A Timeless Dining Experience with Exceptional Food and Atmosphere"
What a fabulous place to dine! The restaurant offers a truly unique experience, with a charming throwback to times gone by. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was just lovely, with so much to admire inside — from the pictures and paintings to the decor collected over the years. While the food was on the pricier side, it was absolutely delicious — fresh, well-prepared, and full of flavor. We were so satisfied after starters, mains, and side dishes that we didn’t have room for dessert, despite planning on it! The drinks were refreshing and expertly made, and while the wine was not cheap, it was delightful and perfectly paired with our meal. Dining here was a real treat, and it was definitely worth every penny for the exceptional food, service, and overall experience. Highly recommended for a memorable meal!
Rules
Rules is a historic restaurant located on Maiden Lane in Covent Garden, London, founded in 1798 by Thomas Rule and widely recognized as London's oldest restaurant.
Address
35 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 7LB Company No: 03428308
Website
https://rules.co.uk/
Email
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Telephone
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