If you’d rather be dining in style than watching the World Cup matches, this is the list for you. Our guide on ‘Where Not to Watch the World Cup’ features an edit of Regent Street’s international restaurants, inspired by nations competing for the World Cup title
Argentina – Gaucho: 25 Swallow St, W1B 4QR
Set in the former home of a Spanish Ambassador, Gaucho Piccadilly embodies Argentine style. Using beef sourced solely from the Pampas region, Gaucho provides the chance to enjoy the finest of Argentinian steak, or other traditional fare such as empanadas and ceviche.
England – Stem: 5 Princes St, W1B 2LF
Chef Mark Jarvis has a new venture, which offers a modern, intimate and approachable dining experience. Stem offers fresh, seasonal dishes drawing upon the country’s finest ingredients – we think that the New Season Asparagus, Duck Egg and Tarragon Cream is the perfect dish to mark the transition into summer.
France – Brasserie Zédel: 20 Sherwood St, W1F 7ED
If it is French fare, glamour and Parisian chic that you’re looking for, we can’t recommend Brasserie Zédel enough. Offering French favourites such as Paupiette de Sole, Mousse de Saumon, each day of the week is also marked by a different Plat Du Jour.
Italy – Ristorante Frescobaldi: 15 New Burlington Pl, W1S 2HX
Ristorante Frescobaldi is the first standalone restaurant and bar in the UK from the famed Frescobaldi family, of Tuscany. The team’s handmade pasta, which changes on a daily basis, is a definite must try if you are tempted to indulge in the best of Italy.
Japan – Sakagura: 8 Heddon St, W1B 4BU
Sakagura shows you the vibrant soul of Japan thanks to founder Tak Tokumine’s love of izakaya drinking dens. Offering you a delectable menu designed around sharing, there’s also a great sake selection and hidden sake den in the basement.
Spain – Sabor: 35-37 Heddon St, W1B 4BR
Sabor (meaning flavour in Spanish) showcases traditional Spanish ingredients and cooking methods. The tapas bars of Andalucía, the asadors of Castile and the seafood restaurants of Galicia all serve as inspiration for Nieves Barragan and José Etura’s culinary journey. Having recently been voted 2nd place at Restaurant Magazine Awards, it’s safe to say they’re a winning choice (a bit like their football team).
Morocco – Momo: 25 Heddon St, W1B 4BH
Momo offers a tantalising menu full of flavour, with dishes served on stunning ceramics sourced from North African souks. If you really can’t avoid sneaking away to check the score, handily tucked away beneath Momo's restaurant is an underground bar, which will be showcasing a small selection of matches.