Ekstedt at The Yard: Nordic Fire-Cooked Elegance in Central London
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Ekstedt at The Yard is a Michelin-starred Scandinavian restaurant located in the iconic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, Westminster. Helmed by Swedish chef Niklas Ekstedt, it specializes in Nordic wood fire cooking techniques using the finest seasonal British ingredients. The intimate venue offers multi-course tasting menus, a unique Chef's Table experience, and a pioneering natural wine list, all set within a rustic-modern ambiance that celebrates open-fire culinary artistry.
A brief summary to Ekstedt at The Yard
- 3-5 Great Scotland Yard, London, SW1A 2HN, GB
- +442079254749
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 6 pm-9 pm
- Wednesday 6 pm-9 pm
- Thursday 6 pm-9 pm
- Friday 6 pm-9 pm
- Saturday 6 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance for the Chef’s Table to enjoy an intimate, front-row view of the open-fire kitchen.
- Try the Sunday roast during the holiday season for a Nordic twist on a British classic.
- Pair your tasting menu with selections from the restaurant’s pioneering natural wine list curated by a top UK sommelier.
- Dress smart-casual to match the elegant yet rustic ambiance of the restaurant.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Ekstedt at The Yard location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ekstedt at The Yard
A Nordic Culinary Adventure in the Heart of London
Ekstedt at The Yard brings the elemental power of fire to Central London’s dining scene. Located within the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel near Westminster, this Michelin-starred restaurant is the first London outpost of celebrated Swedish chef Niklas Ekstedt. Known for his mastery of ancient Scandinavian cooking techniques, Ekstedt crafts dishes over open flames, wood pits, and embers, creating a sensory experience that is both primal and refined. The restaurant’s focus on seasonal British ingredients—such as Scottish trout, Cornish fish, and wild game—infuses Nordic flavors with local freshness, offering a unique fusion of tradition and terroir.Signature Fire-Cooked Dishes and Seasonal Menus
The menu at Ekstedt at The Yard is a carefully curated journey through wood-fired gastronomy. Guests can choose from multi-course tasting menus featuring signature dishes like birch-fired cured trout, hay-smoked duck breast, and ember-baked beetroot puree. The kitchen’s open-fire techniques extend to snacks such as flambadou oysters and juniper-smoked sirloin beef. Seasonal British produce is transformed with Nordic flair, including fermented and pickled accompaniments that add depth and complexity. Special experiences like the Sunday roast showcase traditional British classics reimagined with fire-cooked innovation, while vegetarian options are thoughtfully available.Exclusive Chef’s Table and Wine Pairings
For an immersive dining experience, the Chef's Table seats just seven guests at a shared table, offering a front-row view of the kitchen's fiery theatre. This intimate setting allows diners to witness the artistry behind each dish and engage with the culinary team. Complementing the food is a pioneering natural wine list curated by Head Sommelier Klearchos Kanellakis, ranked among the UK’s top sommeliers. Wine pairings are thoughtfully selected to enhance the flavors of the fire-cooked menu, elevating the overall sensory journey.Ambiance and Design: Rustic Elegance Meets Modern London
The restaurant’s interior blends rustic Scandinavian aesthetics with modern London sophistication. The open kitchen and visible wood-fired ovens create a warm, inviting atmosphere punctuated by the glow of embers and flickering flames. The design balances cozy intimacy with a refined dining experience, making it suitable for special occasions and discerning food lovers. Ekstedt at The Yard’s location within the Great Scotland Yard Hotel adds a layer of historic charm, situating the restaurant in a landmark with rich cultural resonance.Culinary Philosophy and Chef Niklas Ekstedt’s Vision
Niklas Ekstedt’s culinary philosophy centers on fire as the primal element of cooking. Growing up with a family tradition rooted in open-flame cooking, Ekstedt elevates this ancient technique into a modern gastronomic art form. His dedication to natural heat sources—fire, smoke, ash, and embers—defines the restaurant’s identity and menu. This approach not only preserves the integrity of ingredients but also imparts a distinctive smoky depth and texture that is rare in contemporary fine dining.Dining Experience and Practical Details
Ekstedt at The Yard operates primarily in the evening with dinner service from 6 pm to 9 pm, offering a refined yet approachable fine dining experience. The tasting menus are priced around £115 on average, reflecting the quality and craftsmanship of the dishes. While there is no dedicated kids’ menu, the restaurant offers a family-friendly Sunday roast during the holiday season. Reservations are recommended, especially for the exclusive Chef’s Table. The venue also features an inventive cocktail menu and a natural wine list, perfect for connoisseurs and casual diners alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
16-18 Whitehall
0.1 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Old Admiralty Building
0.2 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.2 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Admiralty Arch
0.2 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Nelson's Column
0.2 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.2 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Captain James Cook
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Eleanor Cross
0.2 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.2 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Dover House
0.2 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.3 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Guards Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
The Women of World War II
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Unmissable attractions to see
Grand Building
0.1 km
A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.2 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
The Household Cavalry Museum
0.2 km
Explore the living history and pageantry of Britain’s elite Household Cavalry at their historic London headquarters.
Horse Guards Parade
0.2 km
Historic ceremonial parade ground in London’s Whitehall, famed for royal pageantry and military tradition since the 16th century.
Banqueting House
0.2 km
Explore London's Banqueting House, a Palladian masterpiece with Rubens' ceiling and the historic site of King Charles I’s execution.
Charing Cross
0.2 km
Charing Cross and the Strand: a historic London gateway blending culture, theatre, and vibrant city life along a legendary riverside street.
Embankment Pl
0.2 km
A sleek postmodern complex blending riverside charm with central London’s vibrant urban pulse.
Trafalgar Square
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
Victoria Embankment Gardens: Whitehall Gardens
0.2 km
A peaceful riverside garden in central London blending historic monuments, vibrant blooms, and tranquil green spaces along the Thames.
Royal Naval Division War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn Lutyens-designed fountain and obelisk memorial honoring the Royal Naval Division’s WWI sacrifices on historic Horse Guards Parade.
London by Night Tours
0.2 km
Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.3 km
Experience the charm of London at Gordon's Wine Bar, the city's oldest wine bar, offering a delightful selection of wines and traditional British cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Canada House
0.3 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
The Fourth Plinth
0.3 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.3 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.0 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
The Garden
0.1 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.1 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.5 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
J Sheekey
0.5 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Rules
0.5 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.6 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.6 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Clos Maggiore
0.6 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
wagamama southbank
0.6 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.6 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Chez Antoinette
0.6 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Punch & Judy
0.6 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.1 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Gifts of London
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.5 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Unique Britain
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.6 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.6 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Cool Britania
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Floral Street
0.6 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.6 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
M&M'S London
0.6 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.6 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.6 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.6 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.6 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
0.1 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Spy Bar
0.1 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.4 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.4 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Blind Spot London
0.5 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.5 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.5 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.5 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.5 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.5 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.5 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Upstairs At Rules
0.5 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mrs Riot
0.5 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.6 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Heaven
0.2 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
TSQ Club
0.3 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.5 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Tiger Tiger London
0.6 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
The Penthouse London
0.6 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Luxe Club
0.6 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
0.6 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.6 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Proud Late
0.7 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Ivy Club
0.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Scotch of St James
0.8 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.8 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.8 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Cirque Du Soul
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly