OXO Tower Restaurant requires smart casual dress code for lunch, afternoon tea or dinner with no sportswear, shorts or trainers permitted at the popular London location.
OXO Tower offers a la carte and tasting menus with seasonal British ingredients as well as afternoon tea and a lively bar with level 32 South Bank views over the Thames.
The modern British menu and glass-walled setting calls for polished attire when you are enjoying iconic pre-theatre dinners or just dining with London skyline vistas similar to those from The Shard.
OXO Tower Restaurant Dress Code Overview
The dramatic setting and theatre crowd expect neat sophistication and smart casual is the official requirement.
That excludes sportswear, shorts and trainers, but smart jeans are OK paired with collared shirts or jumpers. For ladies, business attire or dresses are most popular among guests.
What To Wear
OXO Tower leans smart casual with a clear premium edge, so the safest approach is to dress as though you’re heading to a stylish city restaurant rather than a casual lunch spot.
For men, chinos, tailored trousers or smart dark jeans work best, paired with a button-down shirt, a polo or a neat knit.
For women, dresses, skirts, tailored trousers and blouses all fit the setting well, especially if they feel polished and put together.
The overall look should be clean, intentional and slightly elevated. Think restaurant-ready rather than office-formal, with simple accessories and well-fitted layers that suit the South Bank setting.
If you’re going for afternoon tea or dinner with a view, it’s worth leaning a little smarter than usual.
Footwear Rules
Footwear at OXO Tower should match the rest of the outfit. Loafers, brogues, dress shoes, ankle boots, flats and elegant sandals are the best choices, especially for the main dining room and afternoon tea.
Trainers are not allowed in dining areas, and casual sandals are also best avoided if you want to stay comfortably within the dress code.
Closed-toe shoes are the safest option overall, particularly for evening dining or more formal bookings. If you’re unsure, choose footwear that would be appropriate for a smart lunch or dinner in central London.
Key Rules
The most important rule is to avoid anything too casual or sporty. Sportswear is not appropriate, and that includes gym leggings, tracksuits, hoodies, football shirts and similar items.
The same standard generally applies to the bar as to the restaurant, so it’s best not to assume the bar area is more relaxed.
A smart, tidy appearance is the expectation throughout the venue. If in doubt, dress one level smarter than you think you need to, especially if you’re visiting in the evening or for a special occasion.
OXO Tower Booking Information
It’s best to reserve in advance through the official website oxotowerrestaurant.com, especially for dinner, weekends and afternoon tea.
Afternoon tea is particularly popular, so booking early is strongly recommended if you want a specific date or time.
If you’re planning a celebration or visiting with a group, advance booking becomes even more important. The venue’s reputation, river views and central London location mean popular slots can fill quickly.
OXO Tower Restaurant Dress Code FAQs
Jeans fine?
Yes – smart jeans are usually acceptable, as long as they are clean, well-fitting and not distressed or overly casual.
No trainers rule strict?
Yes, especially in the dining areas. Trainers are not the right choice if you want to avoid any issue at entry.
Can I wear smart sandals?
Elegant sandals may be acceptable in some cases, but closed-toe shoes are the safest and most reliable option.
Is the bar more relaxed than the restaurant?
Not really. The bar follows a similar standard, so it’s best to treat the whole venue as smart casual.
Do I need to dress formally for afternoon tea?
No formalwear is needed, but smart casual clothing is strongly recommended so you match the setting.