If you’re looking for a relaxed yet stylish place for lunch in Mayfair, London W1, NAC, short for North Audley Cantine, is a top pick. Just moments from Oxford Street and a short walk from Bond Street station, it’s ideal whether you’re meeting friends, taking a solo break between meetings, or searching for the best lunch restaurants in Mayfair. This chic spot serves modern European cuisine in a laid-back setting, making it one of the best casual restaurants in Mayfair if you’re looking for something informal yet full of flavour and style.
“NAC nails that sweet spot — a laid-back vibe with a menu full of dishes you actually want to eat. Think indulgent treats, balanced out with fresh, feel-good salads,” Homegirl London.
North Audley Cantine Lunch Menu
I started with the halloumi fries, which came hot and golden, lightly crisp on the outside and soft in the middle. They were topped with a drizzle of honey sriracha, adding just the right balance of sweetness and heat to cut through the richness of the cheese. If you’re in the mood for something light to start, you can also go for olives or beetroot hummus with feta. Nibbles at NAC range from £5 to £13.
I fancied something fresh for the main and opted for one of the salads; there are three to choose from. I opted for the kale and cabbage with parmesan, pine nuts, golden raisins, and honey za’atar dressing. It was a generous portion and felt far more substantial than most restaurant salads. The crunch of the cabbage worked beautifully with the creamy cheese and sweetness of the raisins, with the dressing tying everything together. If you’re after something lighter or brighter, the quinoa salad with pomegranate, baby tomatoes, and lemon confit dressing is a great option. Alternatively, you could try the Asian slaw with crispy pita and chilli sesame. Salads are priced between £16 and £18.
If you’re hungry for more, a generous selection of small plates is available to share. Dishes like torched cauliflower with olive oil and sea salt, miso aubergine with crispy rice, or crushed burrata with cherry tomato and smoked salt are ideal for grazing. For something heartier, the mains include a truffle burger with Monterey Jack and truffle mayo, rigatoni alla vodka with chilli and parmigiano, or grilled Cajun chicken with corn and tomato. There’s also steak au poivre, veal schnitzel, and a creamy wild mushroom conchiglie. Mains range from £23 to £36.
The dessert menu at NAC Mayfair is short but tempting, with three indulgent options to round off your meal. There’s a warm speculoos (Belgium spiced shortbread biscuits) French toast served with raspberries and clotted cream (allow ten minutes for that one), as well as a classic affogato. I chose the crushed milk chocolate cookies with Frosties and soft serve. It was ridiculously sweet and over the top, and I probably shouldn’t have eaten it all, but I did. Prices range from £8 to £15.
The drinks list at NAC covers everything from fresh juices and iced lattes to a neat selection of wines and cocktails with a twist. You’ll find options like a mezcal sour with Montenegro, a gin and elderflower mix with cucumber, or an amaro and cherry number topped with Moscato d’Asti. I went for the passionfruit lemonade from the non-alcoholic list — sharp, cooling and not too sweet. Other soft drinks include orange and lychee with orgeat, blackberry and vanilla lemonade, and apple and elderflower with mint and soda.
Helpful Information About NAC
If the weather’s good, sit outside under the large white umbrella on North Audley Street, where it’s perfect for people-watching.
Indoors, the restaurant has the feel of a contemporary, chic Parisian bistro. White-washed brick walls, a painted anaglypta ceiling, wooden floors and industrial lighting give it texture and character, while velvet touches and soft lighting keep it cosy. It’s an easy place to settle in, whether you’re just stopping by or staying for a leisurely lunch.
NAC is located at 41 North Audley Street, London W1K 6ZP. The nearest tube station is Bond Street. They serve their daytime menu Monday to Friday, from 11 am to 6 pm. For more details and the full menu, visit the NAC London website.
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Mayfair London W1 Helpful Area Guide
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about eateries where I had a good experience. I recommend that you conduct further research, as standards and opinions are subject to fluctuation. Please check if the establishment is still in business and what the opening times are before you go. If you discover this restaurant has closed, contact me to remove it from my blog.