Toklas in London is a fantastic choice for a client lunch, especially in the summer months. Conveniently located just off the Strand, it strikes the right balance between being central and offering an experience that feels a little tucked away.
The restaurant is known for its modern European menu, focusing on seasonal ingredients and confident, clean cooking - think handmade pastas, simply grilled fish, and beautifully prepared vegetables, all elegant without being fussy. The menu caters to a range of tastes, offering both sharing plates and individual dishes, as well as vegetarian and lighter options, making it easy to accommodate any client.
One of Toklas’s biggest draws is its carefully curated wine list, which balances approachable by-the-glass options with premium bottles for more celebratory occasions. Knowledgeable staff provide unobtrusive guidance to help select the perfect pairing, and non-alcoholic options, including fresh mocktails, ensure every guest feels catered for.
The spacious roof terrace is another highlight, offering a hidden oasis in the heart of the city. On a warm day, it provides a relaxed, open-air backdrop for conversation, while inside, the dining room’s pared-back, modern aesthetic with an artistic edge makes it equally suitable for more formal meetings. Tim Hayward of the Financial Times has highlighted Toklas as one of his top picks for client lunches, praising its rare combination of style, substance, and ease. Toklas manages to feel both impressive and approachable - the kind of place where you can build rapport, enjoy exquisite food and wine, seal a deal, or simply relax in a professional yet effortless setting.
