Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience Authentic Italian Dining in St. James
Established in 1945, Francos holds the distinction of being London's oldest Italian dining institution. Our restaurant has maintained its reputation as a culinary landmark in St. James for over eight decades, offering guests an authentic Italian experience within a refined yet contemporary setting. We serve a diverse clientele ranging from local residents to international visitors, providing carefully curated menus that span breakfast through dinner. Our commitment to quality is evident in our homemade bread, fresh pasta, and carefully sourced ingredients that cater to various dietary preferences including vegan and gluten-free options. The restaurant's heated terrace offers an inviting space for al fresco dining, complemented by our renowned cocktail and cigar selection.Our private dining facilities accommodate events from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations, with flexible layouts designed to meet specific requirements. The wine list showcases carefully selected Italian and international vintages, while our daily menu specials ensure a continually evolving dining experience. With operating hours extending from early morning to late evening, we provide a versatile venue for both casual meals and special occasions. Our team maintains the highest standards of service, ensuring each visit reflects the tradition and excellence that have defined Francos for generations.
Services
Italian Cuisine
Private Dining
Breakfast Service
Wine Pairing
Cocktail Bar
Terrace Dining
Vegetarian Menu
Gluten Free Options
Details
- Year established: 1945
Highlights and features
- London's oldest Italian restaurant with 80 years of culinary heritage
- Daily changing menus featuring homemade bread and fresh pasta
- Heated terrace with seasonal menu specials and cigar selection
- Flexible private dining spaces for events up to 50 guests
- Comprehensive wine list with Italian and international vintages
What people say
Exceptional service
Authentic Italian experience
Historic ambiance
Perfect private dining
Excellent wine selection
Services
Private Dining
Our dedicated private dining spaces offer flexible configurations for events of various sizes. The main dining room accommodates up to 34 guests on a single table or 50 across five oval tables. A smaller room suits intimate gatherings of 14, while the mirror room provides space for 30 guests. Each venue maintains Francos signature Italian ambiance while offering tailored service for business meetings, celebrations, and special occasions.
Italian Cuisine
Our menus showcase authentic Italian cooking with contemporary interpretations. Dishes feature homemade bread, fresh pasta, and carefully sourced ingredients. We offer breakfast through dinner service with seasonal specials, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The kitchen combines traditional techniques with modern presentation, maintaining the quality standards that have defined Francos for generations.
Wine Pairing
The restaurant's wine list features an extensive collection of Italian and international vintages. Our sommeliers curate pairings that complement seasonal menus and special dishes. Regular wine tastings and themed evenings provide opportunities to explore different regions and varietals. The collection includes rare bottles and carefully aged selections for discerning palates.
Cocktail Bar
Our bar offers expertly crafted cocktails using premium spirits and house-made ingredients. The menu includes classic Italian aperitifs alongside contemporary creations. A curated cigar selection pairs with after-dinner drinks on the heated terrace. Bartenders provide personalized recommendations based on guest preferences and food pairings.
Terrace Dining
The heated terrace provides year-round outdoor dining with street views of St. James. Seasonal menus feature lighter dishes and sharing plates designed for casual enjoyment. The space maintains Francos refined atmosphere while offering a more relaxed setting for business lunches or evening drinks with friends.
Questions
What makes Franco's unique among London restaurants?
As London's oldest Italian restaurant since 1945, we combine historic tradition with contemporary Italian cuisine in a St. James setting that has welcomed generations of diners.
Do you offer private dining options?
Yes, we have multiple private dining spaces accommodating groups from 14 to 50 guests with tailored menus and event planning support.
Are there vegetarian and gluten-free options available?
Our menus include dedicated vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free sections while maintaining authentic Italian flavors and preparation methods.
What are your terrace dining options?
The heated terrace offers seasonal menus in a covered outdoor space with street views, available for both dining and drinks with cigar pairings.
Do you serve breakfast at Franco's?
Yes, we offer breakfast service daily from 7:30am featuring both continental and cooked options in our St. James location.
How can I make a reservation?
Reservations can be made through our website or by calling +44 (020) 7499 2211. We recommend booking in advance, especially for weekends and private events.
