The Portrait Restaurant

The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan sits at the top of the National Portrait Gallery, with panoramic views over Trafalgar Square and the Houses of Parliament. The menu pulls together classic dishes from Corrigan's career and newer signature plates, all built on seasonal British and Irish produce.

The room is light and airy, with a heritage green palette that picks up the gallery's own tones. Hand-sewn fabric panels by De Gournay, the British house known for hand-painted wallpapers, show the building's exterior, and the walls carry portraits of writers, musicians and poets connected to Ireland. Dishes to look out for include Gazpacho, Courgette Cream, Native Lobster, and fillet of beef with spinach and peppercorn sauce, with classic sides like chips and mash. A set menu offers two courses for £34.

It opens for lunch on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, and for all-day dining Wednesday to Saturday, with reservations advised at busy times. The restaurant is a partnership between Corrigan and Searcys, who have worked in London hospitality for over 175 years and focus on fresh, seasonal, sustainable food.