FAQs

OXO Tower London FAQs

Harvey Nichols chose the South Bank as the location for its first standalone restaurant. Opening its doors in September 1996, OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie was designed by award-winning firm Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands. Incorporating sleek, natural materials, the interior was influenced by the Art Deco style of the building, as well as the presence of the Thames.

Occupying 12,500 square feet, OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie is situated on the eighth floor of OXO Tower. The central tower acts as a natural focus, dividing the space into two halves. To the east lies the Restaurant, and to the west lies the Bar and Brasserie. All three spaces are linked by a 250-foot garden terrace that offers breathtaking views of the city.

The iconic OXO Tower building was originally a power station for the General Post Office, and over the years it has housed a number of businesses – most notably, Liebig Extract of Meat Company. To advertise its famous OXO stock cube without violating the ban on skyline advertising, it installed the now-famous Art Deco windows on the tower.

Is there a dress code at OXO Tower?

There is no dress code, but a lot of our guests come in smart casual clothing. Guests are welcome to dress as they wish.

What is the difference between your venues at OXO Tower?

We have three venues at OXO Tower – the Restaurant, the Bar and the Brasserie. All three are on the eighth floor of OXO Tower, and they all have floor-to-ceiling windows and a terrace with views across the Thames. The Restaurant is perfect for guests looking for a particularly elegant and relaxed lunch or evening meal. The kitchen is overseen by Executive Head Chef Jeremy Bloor, and his seasonal menu celebrates the best of British produce. The menu is also complemented by an extensive, award-winning wine list, which includes rare and exquisite bottles from some of the world’s top wine producers. The Brasserie is a bustling venue, with daily live jazz and an open kitchen that create a buzzy atmosphere. Guests can enjoy watching the chefs – overseen by Head Chef Keir Barry – cooking dishes from the British all-day-dining menu. Nestled between these two venues is the Bar, which is the ideal spot for a morning coffee or an after-work cocktail. The Bar also features a food menu for those who fancy some nibbles or a light lunch.

Is it possible to book a table outside?

Tables are allocated on arrival, so it’s not possible to book a specific table at OXO Tower. We always try to accommodate requests from guests who are particularly keen to sit on our terrace. For those who would like to sit outside, we recommend booking for an early lunch or dinner to increase the likelihood of being seated on the terrace.

Is it possible to book a table in the Bar?

Yes. Guests can book a table in the Bar every day and evening, except Friday and Saturday nights, when tables are allocated on arrival. For groups of seven or more, we advise booking to avoid disappointment – our Bar can get very busy on weekends.

Is it possible to bring a cake for celebrations?

Guests are welcome to bring their own cake to OXO Tower for us to serve so that they can blow out the candles. We can also provide a chocolate cake made by OXO’s Head Pastry Chef, Penny Wabbit. Chat to our reservations team for more information. Reservations team: +44 (0)20 7803 3888

Is there a halal menu?

We do not have halal meat, but we do have a wide range of fish and vegetarian options.

Is there vegetarian food?

Yes – we always have at least a starter, a main and a dessert for our vegetarian guests.

Is there vegan food?

Yes – we always have at least a starter, a main and a dessert for our vegan guests.

Does OXO Tower cater for dietary requirements?

Yes, within reason. Guests with dietary requirements are advised to call our reservations team so they can advise on allergens and dietary requirements.

What is the closest Tube station?

The closest Tube stations are Blackfriars, Waterloo and Southwark – they are each about a 10-minute walk.

How do you get to OXO Tower by bus?

There are several buses that regularly pass OXO Tower: the RV1 and 381 buses run from London Bridge to Waterloo and stop close to Oxo Tower Wharf.

Is there parking?

OXO Tower doesn’t have any parking on site. The nearest car park is on Cornwall Road.

Are balloons allowed?

Unfortunately not – this is purely to ensure that all our guests are able to enjoy their time with us.

Can stag/hen parties come in?

We welcome large parties, but we do not allow any accessories traditionally associated with hen/stag parties into our venues. You are welcome to leave these in our cloakroom.

What time is your live music?

We have live music in the Brasserie daily. Evening performances are Monday to Friday 7pm – 10.30pm, Saturday 7.30pm – 11pm and Sunday 6.30pm – 9.30pm. Lunchtime performances are Saturday 1.30pm – 4.30pm and Sunday 1pm – 4pm. Please note that performances may not be running due to restrictions relating to the pandemic, please give us a call if you would like to know more.

Are children allowed?

Absolutely. We are a family-friendly restaurant, so we have high chairs, changing facilities, children’s menus and some activities to keep them (and you) happy.

Do you sell gift vouchers?

Yes, gift vouchers can be purchased online or by calling our reservations team. We have vouchers for specific experiences, such as Afternoon Tea, as well as monetary vouchers.